Classic Chinese Egg Rolls are a beloved appetizer that offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures. With a crispy golden exterior and a savory filling of pork, cabbage, carrots, and aromatic seasonings, these egg rolls are a favorite at many gatherings. Making them from scratch might seem daunting at first, but the process is quite straightforward and incredibly rewarding. I fondly remember making egg rolls with my family during festive occasions; the kitchen would be filled with laughter, the aroma of cooking pork, and the satisfying crunch of the first bite. This recipe brings those cherished memories to life, allowing you to create your own delicious egg rolls at home. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or a casual dinner, these classic egg rolls are sure to impress.
Ingredients
12 egg roll wrappers
1 pound ground pork
2 cups shredded cabbage
1 cup shredded carrots
4 thinly sliced scallions
2 minced garlic cloves
1 tablespoon finely grated ginger
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Cook the Pork:
Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the ground pork and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Vegetables and Aromatics:
Add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, thinly sliced scallions, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pork.
Stir-fry the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened but still slightly crisp.
Season the Filling:
Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper.
Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers
Make the Slurry:
In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. This will be used to seal the egg roll wrappers.
Fill the Wrappers:
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing toward you, so it forms a diamond shape.
Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the two side corners.
Roll the wrapper tightly away from you, ensuring it is snug.
Brush a small amount of the cornstarch slurry on the top corner to seal the egg roll.
Repeat:
Continue filling and rolling the remaining egg roll wrappers until all the filling is used.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat the Oil:
Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or wok to a depth of about 2 inches.
Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). You can use a thermometer to check the temperature or drop a small piece of wrapper into the oil; if it sizzles and turns golden brown, the oil is ready.
Fry the Egg Rolls:
Carefully add a few egg rolls to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
Serve Warm:
Arrange the fried egg rolls on a serving platter.
Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or chili garlic sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Version:
Replace the ground pork with firm tofu or finely chopped shiitake mushrooms. Sauté the tofu or mushrooms until golden before adding the vegetables.
Extra Flavor:
Add 1 teaspoon of Chinese five-spice powder to the filling for a more complex flavor profile.
Healthier Option:
For a lighter version, bake the egg rolls instead of frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly brush them with vegetable oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
Moisture Control:
Ensure the filling is not too moist to prevent soggy wrappers. After cooking, drain any excess liquid from the filling before assembling the egg rolls.
Conclusion
Making Classic Chinese Egg Rolls at home is a fun and rewarding experience that results in a delicious, crispy appetizer. The combination of savory pork, fresh vegetables, and aromatic seasonings wrapped in a crispy shell makes these egg rolls irresistible. While the rolling technique might take some practice, the end result is well worth the effort. This recipe is versatile, allowing for various fillings and cooking methods to suit different dietary preferences and tastes. Whether you’re serving these egg rolls at a party, as a side dish, or as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy the process of creating and savoring these delightful treats, and share the joy of homemade egg rolls with your loved ones.
