Air Fryer Egg Rolls – Great Meal Recipes

Are you ready to discover a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? If you crave some crispy, flavorful comfort food, then let me introduce you to air fryer egg rolls. These delightful bites are perfect for any meal or gathering. 

Picture yourself serving these at a picnic, game day, or even on a cozy night at home. Pair them with some hot sauce, soy sauce, or even a dab of duck sauce, and you have a finger food that will steal the spotlight.

What Are Air Fryer Egg Rolls?

Think of air fryer egg rolls as crispy envelopes bursting with flavor. Typically, these rolls are filled with meat, vegetables, and seasonings and wrapped in a thin pastry known as egg roll skin. But when cooked in an air fryer, you get that perfect crunch without needing a deep fryer. This method reduces the oil required and still satisfies those crunchy cravings.

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a perfectly cooked egg roll: the outer shell is crispy, yet light. Inside, you’ll find a harmonious mix of savory ground meat, crisp vegetables, and a dash of seasoning that ties it all together. Each bite offers a balance between a crunchy exterior and a tasty filling. Trust me, it’s comfort food at its best.

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Why This Recipe Works

So why should you dive into making air fryer egg rolls? Here are a few compelling reasons that will make you grab your apron and roll up your sleeves:

1. Healthy Cooking Without Sacrificing Flavor
Using the air fryer means cutting down significantly on oil. This method provides that crispy texture we all love while ensuring the dish remains light and healthy. It’s a win-win!

2. Easy to Customize
You can change the fillings to suit your cravings. Not a fan of pork? Switch to chicken or go vegetarian! With so many possibilities, you can tailor these rolls to fit any dietary need, which keeps things interesting.

3. Quick Preparation
These egg rolls come together quickly. With minimal prepping involved, you won’t be spending hours in the kitchen. Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe often.

4. Fun to Make
Rolling egg rolls can be an enjoyable experience, especially with the kids. It’s a chance to bond, make a mess (in a good way), and encourage creativity as you stuff, roll, and Air Fry these little delights.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Egg Rolls

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 cups shredded Napa cabbage (or green cabbage)
  
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  
• 1 pound ground pork or ground chicken
  
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger root
  
• Oil, for light brushing
  
• 1 medium carrot, finely shredded
  
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  
• 12 egg roll skins (wrappers)
  
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (for extra flavor)
  
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper (adds a little kick)
  

For Dipping:

• Duck sauce
  
• Plum sauce
  
• Soy sauce
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up before tossing in the ground pork or chicken. Cook it until brown, breaking it up as it cooks. Trust me; the aroma is simply enticing!

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Once the meat is cooked through, add in the Napa cabbage, carrot, green onions, garlic, and ginger. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until the veggies are tender. The colors will brighten and blend together beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

After the veggies soften, pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and white pepper. Mix everything thoroughly for another 2 minutes. The flavors should meld together like a well-rehearsed orchestra.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the wrapper. Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, then roll it tightly towards the opposite corner. Seal the edges with a bit of water. This step can be the most enjoyable part—it's where you put your crafty side to work!

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

While you’re assembling your rolls, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). This is a crucial step to ensure even cooking and that crispy perfection we’re after.

Step 6: Air Fry the Egg Rolls

Lightly brush or spray the outside of each egg roll with oil. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer. Place the egg rolls in a single layer (don’t overcrowd the basket) and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should come out golden brown and mouth-watering.

Notes: Tips for Success

• Don’t Overfill: Adding too much filling makes it tricky to roll and can lead to breakage.
  
• Keep It Dry: Make sure your veggies are well drained and not too watery. This keeps the skin from getting soggy.
  
• Experiment with Spice: If you like heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the filling.
  
• Sealing Technique: Use a little water on the edges to help seal the egg rolls properly.
  
• Storage Before Cooking: If you’ve made a batch and want to cook them later, you can refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before air frying.
  

Nutrition Information

Let’s break down some quick stats. Each egg roll is roughly:

• Calories: 120
  
• Protein: 8g
  
• Fat: 5g
  
• Carbohydrates: 11g
  
• Fiber: 1g
  

This is a general estimate and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. Perfectly reasonable for a snack, right?

How to Store the Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for about 3 days. To enjoy them again, pop them back in the air fryer briefly to regain that crunch.

Sides for Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Looking to amp up the meal? Consider pairing your egg rolls with these great options:

1. Fried Rice
A classic pairing! The savory notes of fried rice complement the egg rolls perfectly. Toss in some peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs for a complete side.

2. Asian Slaw
Crunchy slaw gives a fresh contrast. The tangy dressing enhances the flavor profile, making each bite even better.

3. Dumplings
Why not double down on the Asian theme? Serve up some steamed dumplings alongside your egg rolls for a variety of textures.

4. Spring Rolls
Similar in flavor but uniquely different. Spring rolls add a refreshing touch with their fresh veggies and herbs inside, giving a nice contrast to the crispy egg rolls.

Alternative Choices to Ingredients

Not all of us have a fully stocked pantry. Here are some alternatives you can use:

1. Ground Beef or Tofu
If you don’t have pork or chicken, ground beef works great. If you want a meat-free option, crumbled tofu will hold up nicely when spiced properly.

2. Spinach or Kale for Cabbage
Need a green addition? Spinach or kale can substitute the cabbage, adding a different flavor.

3. Almond Butter or Peanut Butter
If you don’t have sesame oil, consider using almond or peanut butter for a nutty richness in the filling.

4. Whole Wheat Wraps
For those aiming for a healthier option, whole wheat wraps can be an alternative to traditional egg roll skins.

Conclusion

Air fryer egg rolls are a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire. They offer a fun experience, delicious flavor, and endless customization. You’ll find yourself making these time and time again. Craft them for gatherings, snack on them during movie nights, or pack them for a picnic. This dish checks all the boxes: flavor, health, and ease.

So which filling will you choose? The possibilities are as wide as your imagination. Let’s get rolling!

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