Egg rolls are a classic appetizer that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, a party snack, or a quick weeknight meal, these crispy delights never disappoint. In this recipe, we’re giving egg rolls a little twist by using the air fryer, which results in a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the filling perfectly savory and delicious. The beauty of using an air fryer is that it reduces the amount of oil you’d typically need for deep frying, giving you all the crunch without the heaviness.
As someone who loves simple, flavorful recipes, I can’t help but be excited about how easy and convenient these air fryer egg rolls are to make. The prep time is quick, and they cook in less time than it takes to order takeout! Whether you’re a fan of traditional fillings or want to experiment with new flavors, this recipe is super customizable. The best part? These egg rolls are a crowd-pleaser every time.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Egg Roll Wrappers: These are the foundation of your egg rolls. You can easily find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores. Make sure to choose square-shaped wrappers, as they work best for folding and rolling the filling securely.
Ground Pork: Ground pork adds a deliciously savory flavor to the egg rolls, providing richness without being overly greasy. You can also substitute with ground chicken, turkey, or beef if you prefer, but pork tends to offer the best balance of taste and texture.
Shredded Cabbage: Cabbage is a key ingredient for the traditional filling. It brings crunch, flavor, and a lightness to the rolls. If you’re looking to add more texture, you can mix in shredded carrots as well.
Green Onions: Green onions add a bit of freshness and mild sharpness, elevating the overall flavor of the filling. They balance out the richness of the pork perfectly.
Garlic: Garlic is an essential aromatics to help build the flavor profile. Fresh garlic minced finely will give your egg rolls that savory punch.
Ginger: Fresh ginger is a wonderful addition to the filling, providing warmth and depth. It complements the pork and cabbage, giving the egg rolls an authentic Asian-inspired flavor.
Soy Sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness and umami to the filling. It ties everything together and helps the ingredients stay moist inside the egg roll.
Sesame Oil: Just a touch of sesame oil provides a nutty, aromatic fragrance that will make these egg rolls irresistible. A little goes a long way.
Salt and Pepper: Simple, but essential, salt and pepper bring everything into balance. Adjust to taste based on your preference.
Ingredients List
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once it’s browned and fully cooked, remove any excess grease. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional minute to release their fragrance. Stir in the shredded cabbage and chopped green onions, cooking until the cabbage softens. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper, and mix until well combined. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing toward you. Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the side corners, and roll tightly toward the top. Make sure the edges are sealed with a bit of water or egg wash. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Air Fry the Egg Rolls
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray, then arrange the egg rolls in the basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them – it’s best to cook in batches if necessary. Spray the tops of the egg rolls with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy. Remove and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overstuff: It’s easy to want to fill your egg rolls generously, but overstuffing them can cause them to break open during cooking. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons of filling per roll for the best results.
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling like bell peppers, mushrooms, or bean sprouts. You can also swap the pork for chicken or tofu for a different twist.
- Keep the Wrappers Moist: Egg roll wrappers dry out quickly, so keep them covered with a damp towel while you work to prevent them from becoming brittle.
- Make Ahead: If you’re prepping for a party or meal prep, you can freeze the egg rolls before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze, then transfer them to a storage bag. When ready to cook, just pop them in the air fryer straight from the freezer (no need to thaw).
FAQs
Can I bake the egg rolls instead of using an air fryer?
Yes! If you prefer to bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden and crispy.
Can I make these egg rolls vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground pork with a variety of vegetarian ingredients such as tofu, tempeh, or even a mix of mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetables. The soy sauce and sesame oil will still provide that umami flavor.
What should I serve with egg rolls?
Egg rolls are perfect with a side of fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also pair them with dipping sauces like sweet and sour, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce.
How long do leftover egg rolls last?
Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to restore some of their crispy texture.