Egg Rolls

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 egg rolls
Difficulty Level: Medium
Cuisine: Chinese / Asian-inspired

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Ingredients

Filling:

• 2 cups shredded cabbage

• 1 cup shredded carrots

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken, pork, or shrimp (optional for non-vegetarian)

• 3 green onions, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Wrappers:

• 12 egg roll wrappers

• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)

For Frying:

• 2-3 cups vegetable oil

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Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok

• Mixing bowl

• Spoon or spatula

• Paper towels

• Plate or tray for assembled rolls

• Deep frying pan or deep fryer

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Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Time: 10 minutes | Intensity: Medium

1. Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and optional meat. Cook 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.

4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), green onions, and season with salt and pepper.

5. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.

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Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Time: 10 minutes | Intensity: Medium

1. Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).

2. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper.

3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right sides toward the center.

4. Roll tightly toward the top corner. Brush a little beaten egg on the top corner to seal.

5. Repeat until all filling is used.

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Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls

Time: 8-10 minutes | Intensity: Medium

1. Heat 2-3 cups of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2. Fry 2-3 egg rolls at a time for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and crispy.

3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

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Step 4: Serving Suggestions

Time: 2 minutes | Intensity: Low

• Serve hot with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or duck sauce for dipping.

• Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flair.

• Pairs well with fried rice or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

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Chef’s Tips

1. Wrappers: Keep unused wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.

2. Frying: Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in small batches for even cooking.

3. Baking Alternative: For a healthier version, brush the egg rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.

4. Filling: Avoid overstuffing to prevent the wrapper from tearing.

5. Prep Ahead: Assemble egg rolls and freeze uncooked for later frying.

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Nutritional Information (Per Egg Roll, Approximate)

• Calories: 180 kcal

• Protein: 5 g

• Fat: 9 g

  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g

• Carbohydrates: 20 g

  • Sugars: 2 g

  • Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 350 mg

• Cholesterol: 15 mg

Note: Nutritional values vary depending on filling ingredients and oil used.

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Recipe Summary

Classic Egg Rolls are a versatile appetizer or snack featuring a savory filling of vegetables and optional meat, wrapped in a crispy fried shell. With a slightly sweet, crunchy exterior and flavorful interior, egg rolls are perfect for parties, family meals, or takeout-style dinners at home.

Preparation is straightforward: cook the filling, assemble carefully, and fry until golden brown. They can be paired with dipping sauces like soy, sweet chili, or duck sauce for extra flavor. This recipe also allows for creativity: you can substitute ingredients like cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, or meat according to taste.

Total time is around 35 minutes, making egg rolls a relatively quick yet impressive dish for any occasion.