Let’s set the scene. You’re preparing a delightful meal of air fryer egg rolls. What will you serve alongside them? Think about the burst of flavor these crispy bites bring to the table. Bright, tangy sauces and fresh sides complement the rich taste brilliantly. Here are a few great pairings:
Soy Sauce: A classic choice, soy sauce adds a salty depth that elevates each crispy morsel.
Plum Sauce: This sweet and fruity dressing provides a vibrant contrast to the savory filling.
Duck Sauce: If you want something sweet with a hint of tang, duck sauce is a delightful option.
Fresh Salad: A simple cucumber salad or mixed greens can add a refreshing crunch.
Dipping Sauce Variety: Create a small spread of various sauces—think sriracha, sweet chili, or even a homemade spicy mayo.
Pairing these sides will make your air fryer egg rolls even more delightful. Now, let’s dive into the world of air fryer egg rolls!
Growing up, I spent many evenings munching on takeout and dreaming of recreating those vibrant flavors at home. When I first tried making egg rolls, they were a hit and miss. They either ended up soggy or burnt. Then came the air fryer into my life. Suddenly, I had the power to create golden brown, crispy delights with less oil and time.
Have you ever tasted something so good that it makes you rethink your culinary skills? That’s the kind of experience air fryer egg rolls bring. They’re not just a crowd favorite; they’re a canvas for creativity. Let’s explore exactly what these delightful bites are and why they should be on your dinner table tonight!
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What is an Air Fryer Egg Roll?
An air fryer egg roll is essentially a fusion of Eastern tradition and modern cooking technology. Egg rolls are filled pastries typically made with a thin dough filled with savory stuffing. In this case, using the air fryer allows for a crunchy exterior without the heavy frying oil. You can easily fill these with anything your heart desires—think cabbage, carrots, proteins, or even tofu.
Unlike traditional deep-fried versions that can weigh heavily, air fryer egg rolls offer a lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Less oil means guilt-free indulgence, which is always a win.
How Does it Taste Like?
Imagine biting into a perfectly fried exterior that gives way to a melty, savory filling. The first crunch is a joy on its own! The contrast between the crispy wrapper and warm, flavorful filling is what makes eating egg rolls such a comforting experience. It’s like a burst of flavor in every bite with a hint of sweetness, saltiness, and even a touch of depth from the spices and seasonings you choose.
Whether you opt for pork, chicken, or even a vegetarian blend, each egg roll becomes a unique experience thanks to the fillings. With a side of your favorite dipping sauce, the flavor profile shifts to a completely new level, inviting you back for one more bite—and then another.
Why You’ll Love This?
Quick Preparation: They come together faster than you think. With a bit of chopping and mixing, you’ve got your filling ready.
Health-Conscious: Using an air fryer cuts down on oil while still providing that satisfying crunch. You can enjoy your favorite crispy dish without the guilt.
Versatility: You can switch up the fillings based on your mood. Love shrimp? Go for it! Prefer veggies? Those work too.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering, these egg rolls are sure to impress your guests.
Meal Prep Friendly: Cook them in batches, store, and freeze for later. When you’re hungry, just air fry straight from frozen.
Ingredients
To whip up a batch of these delightful egg rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (adds a sweet-savory boost)
- 3 cups finely sliced green cabbage
- 1 garlic clove, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (unseasoned)
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 3 green onions (scallions), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon light olive oil
- 1 medium carrot, finely shredded
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (for aroma and richness)
- 1 pound ground pork or ground chicken (your choice of protein)
- 12 egg roll pastry wrappers
- Oil, for lightly brushing before cooking
- Soy sauce
- Plum sauce
- Duck sauce
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by gathering all of your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely sliced cabbage, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sliced green onions, olive oil, shredded carrot, and finally, the ground pork or chicken.
Mix everything thoroughly. Get your hands into it! That’s where the real magic happens. You want the flavors to meld. Add in the hoisin and sesame oil for that delicious, balanced flavor. Let this mixture rest for a few minutes to enhance the taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Next up is the assembly! Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface like a cutting board. Position it so it looks like a diamond (a point facing you). Place about two tablespoons of the filling on the bottom half of the wrapper.
Now, let’s fold. Bring the bottom point over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Now, fold in the sides, like you’re making an envelope, then roll it up towards the top point. Make sure everything is tightly sealed. You don’t want any filling escaping on its journey!
Step 3: Air Frying the Egg Rolls
Once all your rolls are prepped, it’s time to cook! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly brush each egg roll with oil. This will help achieve that gorgeous golden color and crispiness.
Place your egg rolls in the air fryer basket, but do not overcrowd them. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a few minutes—if you can resist—because the filling will be extremely hot. Serve them up with a variety of dipping sauces.
You’ve now created a fun, interactive dish where everyone can dunk to their heart’s content!
Tips for Making Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff them to the brim, but too much filling can lead to leaking.
Moisten Edges: If you’re having trouble sealing them, a little water on the edges can help make them stick better.
Preheat the Air Fryer: This way, your egg rolls will have that ideal crispy outside right from the start.
Space Them Out: Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Give each roll some breathing room.
Use a Cooking Spray: For an ultra-crispy finish, a light spray of cooking oil ensures the outside gets perfectly crispy.
Nutrition Information
Curious about the nutrition in these savory morsels? Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (one egg roll):
This estimate can vary based on your choice of protein and specific measurements used.
How Do You Store Air Fryer Egg Rolls?
Storing these is a breeze. Here’s how you can do it:
Refrigerate: If you have leftovers, put them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze uncooked egg rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container after you’ve prepped them. They can last for up to three months. When you’re ready, air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Air Fryer Egg Rolls?
Feeling creative? Here are five substitutes you might consider, which can really change the game:
Shredded Chicken: Swap out ground pork or chicken for leftover rotisserie chicken. It remains flavorful and adds a delightful texture.
Tofu: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu. First, press it to get rid of excess moisture, then crumble it into the mix.
Mushrooms: Try chopped shiitake or button mushrooms for an umami punch. These will add moisture and richness to your egg rolls without meat.
Quinoa: Substitute part of the meat with cooked quinoa. It’s a fantastic way to add fiber and protein while keeping the dish light.
More Veggies: Get creative with your vegetables. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach can bring new flavors and textures to the filling.
Conclusion
Air fryer egg rolls are the perfect fusion of convenience, flavor, and healthier cooking. With their golden, crispy shells and savory fillings, they bring restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen—without the mess or excess oil of traditional frying. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner, prepping for a party, or stocking the freezer for future cravings, these egg rolls are a deliciously versatile option.
From classic pork to creative veggie or tofu combinations, there’s no limit to how you can customize them. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and fresh sides for a well-rounded, satisfying meal. Once you try these crispy bites straight from the air fryer, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner!
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Air Fryer Egg Rolls Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
Growing up, I spent many evenings munching on takeout and dreaming of recreating those vibrant flavors at home. When I first tried making egg rolls, they were a hit and miss. They either ended up soggy or burnt. Then came the air fryer into my life. Suddenly, I had the power to create golden brown, crispy delights with less oil and time.
Have you ever tasted something so good that it makes you rethink your culinary skills? That's the kind of experience air fryer egg rolls bring. They're not just a crowd favorite; they’re a canvas for creativity. Let’s explore exactly what these delightful bites are and why they should be on your dinner table tonight!
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
-
Start by gathering all of your ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely sliced cabbage, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sliced green onions, olive oil, shredded carrot, and finally, the ground pork or chicken.
-
Mix everything thoroughly. Get your hands into it! That’s where the real magic happens. You want the flavors to meld. Add in the hoisin and sesame oil for that delicious, balanced flavor. Let this mixture rest for a few minutes to enhance the taste.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
-
Next up is the assembly! Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface like a cutting board. Position it so it looks like a diamond (a point facing you). Place about two tablespoons of the filling on the bottom half of the wrapper.
-
Now, let's fold. Bring the bottom point over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Now, fold in the sides, like you're making an envelope, then roll it up towards the top point. Make sure everything is tightly sealed. You don't want any filling escaping on its journey!
Step 3: Air Frying the Egg Rolls
-
Once all your rolls are prepped, it's time to cook! Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Lightly brush each egg roll with oil. This will help achieve that gorgeous golden color and crispiness.
-
Place your egg rolls in the air fryer basket, but do not overcrowd them. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
-
Once cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer. Allow them to cool for a few minutes—if you can resist—because the filling will be extremely hot. Serve them up with a variety of dipping sauces.
-
You’ve now created a fun, interactive dish where everyone can dunk to their heart's content!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 354kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 16.4g26%
- Saturated Fat 5.2g26%
- Trans Fat 0.1g
- Cholesterol 76mg26%
- Sodium 412mg18%
- Total Carbohydrate 29g10%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 7g
- Protein 22g44%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff them to the brim, but too much filling can lead to leaking.
Moisten Edges: If you’re having trouble sealing them, a little water on the edges can help make them stick better.
Preheat the Air Fryer: This way, your egg rolls will have that ideal crispy outside right from the start.
Space Them Out: Overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Give each roll some breathing room.
Use a Cooking Spray: For an ultra-crispy finish, a light spray of cooking oil ensures the outside gets perfectly crispy.
