If you have ever craved that perfect crunchy, savory treat that pairs beautifully with any gathering, then you are in for a delight with the Best Egg Rolls Recipe. This classic appetizer takes the humble egg roll to new heights with its crispy golden exterior and a flavorful filling bursting with tender ground pork, fresh crunchy coleslaw mix, and fragrant garlic and ginger. It is everything you want in a bite-sized indulgence: crisp, savory, and utterly irresistible. Whether you want to impress guests or simply enjoy a comforting snack at home, this recipe is your go-to for an authentic, homemade taste that rivals any takeout joint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this dish. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the crispy exterior and rich, savory interior that make these egg rolls stand out.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: Ideal for cooking the filling without overpowering the flavors and perfect for frying to a crisp gold.
- 1/2 pound ground pork or ground chicken: Provides a juicy, protein-packed base with rich flavor.
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots): Adds crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet contrast to the meat.
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced): Infuses a mild oniony brightness that lifts the entire filling.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the savory blend.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Adds umami and saltiness, balancing sweetness of the vegetables.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Offers a nutty essence that elevates the flavor profile beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a subtle zing and warmth that pairs well with pork and cabbage.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to fine-tune the filling’s flavor.
- 12 egg roll wrappers: The thin, delicate dough that crisps up perfectly to hold your filling.
- 1 egg (beaten, for sealing): Acts as a natural glue to keep your rolls intact during frying.
- Vegetable oil (for frying): Enough to fill your pan 2–3 inches deep to achieve that irresistible crunch.
How to Make Best Egg Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Filling
Begin by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. This step releases the luscious fat and flavor that forms the filling’s backbone. Next, toss in the minced garlic, coleslaw mix, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, plus salt and pepper. Stir constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but maintain a delightful crunch, giving your filling layers of texture and flavor. Removing the mixture from heat and letting it cool just a bit helps with rolling later on.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you, forming a diamond shape. Place 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cooled filling right in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the sides snugly to avoid any leaks. Roll tightly toward the top corner, brushing this edge with the beaten egg to seal your masterpiece. Repeat until all your filling and wrappers are turned into perfect little parcels of crunchy joy.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Fill a skillet or pot with 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil, heating it to 350°F for the ideal frying temperature. Carefully place 3 to 4 egg rolls at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure an even, golden crisp on all sides. Once they reach that perfect shade of golden brown and have that irresistible crunch, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. These hot, crackling bites are best enjoyed fresh from the fryer!
How to Serve Best Egg Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling a few sesame seeds over the freshly fried egg rolls adds a delightful texture contrast and that gorgeous look you want on the plate. A little drizzle of sweet chili sauce or a small dish of soy sauce on the side gives your egg rolls a dipping experience that hits all the sweet, salty, and spicy notes you crave.
Side Dishes
Egg rolls shine alongside crisp salads or a light broth-based soup. Consider pairing them with a fresh cucumber salad tossed in rice vinegar or a hot and sour soup to balance the fried touches with clean, zesty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice each egg roll diagonally and display the cross-sections for a peek at the colorful filling. Alternatively, create a finger food platter with various dipping sauces like hoisin, sriracha mayo, or plum sauce to make your spread more interactive and exciting for guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover egg rolls cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect quick snack or meal addition.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but uncooked egg rolls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring to a sealed freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, fry or bake them directly from the freezer. This makes the Best Egg Rolls Recipe a fantastic make-ahead treat for busy days.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy texture, reheat leftover egg rolls in the oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for an even crispier finish. Microwaving is possible but tends to soften the crunch, so it’s best saved as a last option.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides pork or chicken?
Absolutely! Ground beef or turkey also work wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust your seasoning as needed to complement the chosen meat’s flavor.
Is it possible to make these egg rolls vegetarian?
Yes, swap the meat for firm tofu, mushrooms, or extra vegetables like shredded zucchini and bell peppers to keep things fresh and tasty. Just be mindful to cook out excess moisture to avoid soggy rolls.
Can I bake or air fry the egg rolls instead of frying?
Definitely! For a less oily alternative, brush each egg roll lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway. An air fryer also crisps them up nicely at 375°F in about 10 to 12 minutes.
How do I prevent the egg rolls from bursting while frying?
Make sure not to overfill them and seal the edges securely with the beaten egg. Additionally, keep the oil at the correct temperature so they cook quickly and form a strong crust before absorbing too much oil.
What sauces pair best with homemade egg rolls?
Classic options like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or tangy duck sauce complement the flavors perfectly. Feel free to get creative with spicy mayo, hoisin, or even a garlic-infused dipping sauce for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Best Egg Rolls Recipe if you’re after a crispy, flavorful appetizer that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re making these for a party, a family dinner, or your own indulgent snack time, their homemade charm and irresistible crunch will make them a fast favorite. Give this recipe a whirl and watch your kitchen fill with delicious aromas that beckon everyone to the table!
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Best Egg Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 egg rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
These Best Egg Rolls are crispy, flavorful, and perfect as an appetizer or snack. Made with a savory ground pork or chicken filling combined with fresh coleslaw mix and aromatic seasonings, they are wrapped in classic egg roll wrappers and deep-fried to golden perfection. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful homemade treat that rivals your favorite takeout.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 pound ground pork or ground chicken
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
Assembly
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg (beaten, for sealing)
Frying
- Vegetable oil (for frying, 2–3 inches deep)
Instructions
- Cook the Filling: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon. Then add the minced garlic, coleslaw mix, green onions, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes while stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften slightly. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner facing you like a diamond shape. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling into the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly, and roll up towards the top corner. Brush the top corner with the beaten egg to seal the wrapper. Repeat this step with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour 2–3 inches of vegetable oil into a large, deep skillet or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent temperature for perfect crispy egg rolls.
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully place 3–4 egg rolls into the hot oil at a time. Fry for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even golden browning on all sides. Once they are crispy and golden brown, remove the egg rolls and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve: Serve the hot egg rolls immediately with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or duck sauce for dipping.
Notes
- To bake instead of fry, brush egg rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (205°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.
- For an air fryer version, cook egg rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until crispy.
- You can freeze assembled egg rolls before cooking; cook them directly from frozen using your preferred method.
- Make sure not to overfill the egg rolls to prevent them from bursting during cooking.
