These authentic Chinese egg rolls are crunchy on the outside and packed with tasty fillings like cabbage, carrots, and pork or chicken. They make the perfect snack or party treat!
Rolling these up can be a bit messy, but hey, that’s part of the fun! I like to dip them in sweet and sour sauce—because who doesn’t love a little extra zing? 😄
They’re surprisingly easy to make at home, and you can customize the filling to your liking. Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer veggies, these egg rolls are sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Roll Wrappers: These are essential for classic egg rolls. If you can’t find them, look for spring roll wrappers or even wonton wrappers. However, they’ll yield a different texture!
Pork: Ground pork is traditional, but ground chicken or turkey can work too. For a vegetarian option, swap in tofu or a mix of mushrooms and vegetables instead.
Cabbage: Shredded green cabbage gives the best crunch. If you’re looking for something different, napa cabbage or bok choy are good alternatives for a milder taste.
Carrots: Shredded carrots add color and sweetness. You can substitute with thin slices of bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Oyster Sauce: This sauce gives a rich flavor, but if you prefer a vegetarian option, look for mushroom stir-fry sauce or simply omit it while adding a bit more soy sauce.
How Do I Properly Fold Egg Rolls?
Folding egg rolls tightly is key to preventing them from bursting while frying. Here’s how to do it perfectly:
- Start with the wrapper diamond-shaped in front of you. Spoon the filling near the bottom corner.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, pressing it gently.
- Fold the side corners in, making sure to seal it well.
- Roll towards the top corner, tightening as you go.
- Seal with the beaten egg to ensure no filling spills out during frying.
Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if your first few aren’t perfect; they’ll still taste delicious!
How to Make Authentic Chinese Egg Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1/2 lb ground pork or shredded cooked pork
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 1 egg (beaten, for sealing the wrappers)
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, plus some extra time for frying. You’ll be done in no time and ready to enjoy some delicious homemade egg rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant. Next, add the ground pork, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
2. Add Vegetables:
Now it’s time to add your shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped green onions to the skillet. Stir-fry these veggies for about 3-5 minutes until they are tender but still have a nice crunch. This will keep your egg rolls extra yummy!
3. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine everything and cook for another 2 minutes. After that, remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Wrap the Egg Rolls:
Grab your egg roll wrappers and lay one on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (it should look like a diamond). Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the bottom corner. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners. Roll tightly towards the top corner and seal the final edge with the beaten egg to prevent any openings during frying.
5. Fry the Egg Rolls:
Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining wrappers and filling. When you’re ready, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the egg rolls using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Serve them hot with soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious, crispy egg rolls!
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken, turkey, or even beef. For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or a mix of mushrooms and other vegetables.
How Do I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain their crunchiness, reheat them in an air fryer or a hot oven for a few minutes.
Can I Make the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance! Simply store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When you’re ready to make the egg rolls, just allow the filling to come to room temperature before wrapping.
How Do I Prevent the Egg Rolls from Splitting While Frying?
Be sure to seal the edges of each egg roll tightly with the beaten egg. Also, avoid overcrowding the frying pan, as this can cause temperature drops and lead to splitting. Fry in small batches for the best results!