Traditional Chinese egg rolls are a popular appetizer known for their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. These egg rolls, whether served as an appetizer or snack, are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Follow this simple recipe to make homemade egg rolls that rival those served at your favorite Chinese restaurant.
Ingredients:
For the Egg Roll Filling:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup carrot, julienned
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup cooked protein (shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu), optional
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping and Frying:
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing egg roll wrappers)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and chopped green onions. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
- If using cooked protein, such as shredded chicken, cooked shrimp, or tofu, add it to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables.
- Drizzle the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the filling mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then remove the skillet from heat. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Wrap the Egg Rolls:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture diagonally in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it snugly underneath. Fold the left and right corners towards the center, forming an envelope shape. Roll the wrapper tightly towards the top corner, sealing the edges with beaten egg.
- Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) over medium heat.
- Carefully place the wrapped egg rolls in the hot oil, seam side down, in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried egg rolls to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve the Classic Chinese Egg Rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, plum sauce, or soy sauce with a splash of vinegar.
- Enjoy the crispy texture and savory filling of these homemade egg rolls as an appetizer or snack!
These Classic Chinese Egg Rolls are a tasty appetizer that is simple to prepare at home. Your family and friends will be impressed by their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. These egg rolls, whether served as an appetizer or snack, are a hit with the crowd and will transport you to your favorite Chinese restaurant. So gather your ingredients and prepare to enjoy the authentic flavor of homemade egg rolls!