Homemade Egg Rolls

Short Description

Homemade egg rolls are crispy, golden-fried wrappers filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned pork (or chicken), cabbage, and carrots. These crunchy delights are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, and they taste even better than takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and flavorful – A crunchy wrapper with a savory, well-seasoned filling.
• Better than takeout – Fresh, homemade ingredients with no added preservatives.
• Customizable – Swap the protein or add extra veggies.
• Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and fry whenever you want!
• Perfect for dipping – Pairs well with sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Filling:

• Ground pork (or chicken, beef, or shrimp)
• Cabbage (shredded)
• Carrots (shredded)
• Green onions (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Ginger (grated)
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Rice vinegar
• Salt and pepper

For the Egg Rolls:

• Egg roll wrappers
• Egg (beaten, for sealing)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions

1. Cook the filling – Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook ground pork until browned. Add garlic, ginger, cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until veggies soften.
2. Season the mixture – Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble the egg rolls – Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center. Fold in the sides, roll tightly, and seal the edge with beaten egg.
4. Fry the egg rolls – Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry egg rolls in batches until golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per side). Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve and enjoy – Serve warm with dipping sauces like sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or chili sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 egg rolls
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Baked version – Brush with oil and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air fryer version – Cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
• Spicy kick – Add Sriracha or chili flakes to the filling.
• Vegetarian option – Use tofu or mushrooms instead of meat.
• Extra crunch – Mix in chopped water chestnuts.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F for 10 minutes or air-fry at 350°F for 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and freeze them for quick frying later.

What’s the best oil for frying?

Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil works best for crispy egg rolls.

How do I prevent soggy egg rolls?

Drain excess liquid from the filling and fry at the right temperature.

Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix?

Yes! It’s a great shortcut for shredded cabbage and carrots.

Do I need to cook the filling before wrapping?

Yes, pre-cooking ensures the filling is fully cooked and reduces excess moisture.

How do I keep the egg rolls from opening while frying?

Seal them tightly with egg wash and don’t overcrowd the pan.

Can I fry frozen egg rolls?

Yes! Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the cook time.

What dipping sauces go best with egg rolls?

Sweet and sour sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard.

Can I use spring roll wrappers instead?

Spring roll wrappers are thinner and best for fresh or baked rolls, not deep-frying.

What’s the best way to keep egg rolls warm?

Place them on a wire rack in a 250°F oven until ready to serve.

Conclusion

Homemade egg rolls are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these golden bites are a fun and delicious addition to your meal. Try them today and enjoy a homemade version of your favorite takeout dish!

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