Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls: Your Guilt-Free Homemade Takeout Favorite
One of the ultimate joys of ordering Chinese takeout is undoubtedly those irresistible, crispy egg rolls. The perfect crunch of the deep-fried wrapper giving way to a savory, flavorful filling is a culinary delight that’s hard to beat. However, the indulgence often comes with a side of guilt, knowing they’re typically deep-fried in excessive oil. But what if you could recreate that same amazing taste and texture at home, with significantly less oil and zero guilt? Enter the humble air fryer!
Making homemade Chinese-style egg rolls in your air fryer is not only incredibly easy but also transforms them into a much healthier alternative to their traditional counterparts. Forget the deep fryer, the splattering oil, and the lingering greasy smell. With just a minimal brush of oil, your air fryer can deliver perfectly golden, supremely crispy egg rolls in mere minutes, making them an ideal appetizer, snack, or even a light meal for any occasion.
Why Choose the Air Fryer for Egg Rolls?
The air fryer has revolutionized how we enjoy many traditionally fried foods, and egg rolls are a prime example. Here’s why using an air fryer for your homemade egg rolls is a game-changer:
- Healthier Alternative: Deep frying involves submerging food in hot oil, leading to a high fat content. Air frying uses hot circulating air to achieve a similar crispy texture with only a fraction of the oil, drastically cutting down on calories and unhealthy fats.
- Incredible Crispy Texture: The intense, circulating heat in an air fryer crisps up the egg roll wrappers beautifully, giving you that satisfying crunch without the sogginess often associated with oven-baked versions.
- Convenience and Speed: Air fryers cook food quickly and efficiently. Your egg rolls will be ready in minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute appetizer or a quick weeknight dinner component.
- Less Mess: Say goodbye to greasy stovetops and splattered oil. Air frying is a much cleaner cooking method, requiring minimal cleanup.
- Consistent Results: Air fryers provide even heat distribution, ensuring that each egg roll cooks uniformly to golden perfection.
Essential Ingredients for Homemade Egg Rolls
Crafting delicious homemade egg rolls begins with a balanced and flavorful filling. Our recipe focuses on classic Chinese-inspired flavors, using fresh ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need:
- Egg Roll Wrappers: These are the foundation of your crispy delights. You can find them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, usually near the produce or dairy. They’re distinct from spring roll wrappers, being slightly thicker and more robust.
- Cabbage: A staple in egg roll fillings. For ultimate convenience and to save time on chopping, I highly recommend using a pre-bagged coleslaw mix. It contains perfectly shredded cabbage and sometimes carrots, making prep a breeze.
- Ground Pork: This provides a rich, savory base for the filling. It’s traditional and incredibly flavorful.
- Protein Alternatives: If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes, offering a leaner option without sacrificing taste. Ensure they are fully cooked and seasoned well.
- Aromatics: Fresh aromatics are key to authentic flavor.
- Green Onions: Adds a mild oniony bite and a touch of freshness.
- Fresh Ginger: Grated or minced ginger brings a warm, zesty, and slightly pungent flavor that is quintessential to Chinese cuisine.
- Garlic: Minced garlic provides a robust, aromatic foundation to the filling.
- Seasoning & Sauce Base: These ingredients create the signature savory and slightly sweet profile.
- Soy Sauce: The primary source of umami and saltiness.
- Sesame Oil: A small amount adds a wonderfully nutty and aromatic depth.
- Rice Vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that balances the richness of the pork and other seasonings.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- Sugar: A touch of sweetness rounds out the flavor profile and is common in many Asian dishes.
- Vegetable Oil: Just a light brush on the outside of the egg rolls before air frying is all that’s needed to achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Making these homemade air fryer egg rolls is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Follow along to create your own batch of perfect, crispy delights:
- Cook the Ground Pork: Start by browning your ground pork in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked through and no longer pink, drain any excess fat from the pan. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy filling.
- Infuse with Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated fresh ginger to the cooked pork. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the aromatics become fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Prepare the Flavorful Sauce: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, salt, sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. This creates a balanced sauce that will coat the filling.
- Combine and Coat: Pour the prepared sauce over the pork and aromatics in the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring to ensure the pork is thoroughly coated and the flavors meld together.
- Add Veggies and Mix: Remove the pork mixture from the heat. In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix and thinly sliced green onions. Add the warm pork mixture to the vegetables and mix everything thoroughly until well blended. The residual heat from the pork will slightly soften the cabbage.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: This is where the magic happens! Follow the detailed wrapping instructions below. For each egg roll, you’ll use approximately 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the filling mixture.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Lightly brush the assembled egg rolls with vegetable oil. Arrange them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook at 390ºF (199ºC) for 6 minutes. Then, carefully flip them over and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. Cooking in batches may be necessary depending on your air fryer’s size.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the hot, crispy egg rolls from the air fryer and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce. Sweet chili sauce, duck sauce, or a simple soy-ginger sauce are all excellent choices!
Mastering the Art of Wrapping Egg Rolls
Properly wrapping your egg rolls is essential to ensure the filling stays inside and you achieve that perfect crispy exterior. It’s simpler than you might think!
Begin by placing a single egg roll wrapper on a clean counter or work surface. For ease of rolling, I find it helpful to orient the wrapper diagonally, so one point is directly facing you, forming a diamond shape.
Carefully spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the cooled filling mixture onto the center of the wrapper, forming a small log shape. It’s crucial not to overfill, as this can lead to wrappers tearing or the filling spilling out during cooking. Less is more when it comes to the initial filling amount.
Next, moisten the edges of the wrapper. Dip your finger in a small bowl of water and gently run it along all four edges of the wrapper. This creates a sticky seal that will keep your egg roll intact. Take the point closest to you and fold it tightly over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Press down gently to start sealing the base.
Now, fold the left and right points towards the center, overlapping them slightly over the folded base. Press down gently to seal these sides to the base. You should now have an envelope-like shape with the filling securely contained.
Finally, roll the egg roll upwards from the bottom, away from you, towards the remaining open point. Roll it as tightly as possible without tearing the wrapper. The moistened top edge will seal it completely. Place the finished egg roll seam-side down on a plate and repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Can You Prepare Egg Rolls in Advance?
Absolutely! Homemade air fryer egg rolls are fantastic for meal prepping and can be made ahead of time, offering incredible convenience. You have a couple of excellent options depending on your needs:
Refrigerating Uncooked Egg Rolls: If you plan to cook them within 24 hours, you can assemble the egg rolls and store them in the fridge. To prevent them from drying out, arrange them in a single layer on a plate or baking sheet, cover them with a slightly damp paper towel, and then wrap tightly with plastic wrap or foil to create an airtight seal. This keeps the wrappers pliable and fresh until you’re ready to air fry.
Freezing Egg Rolls for Later: This is my preferred method, especially if you like to double or triple the recipe! Freezing allows you to do all the prep work at once and have a stash of delicious egg rolls ready for whenever a craving strikes. They’re perfect for impromptu appetizers, a quick lunch, or a satisfying crispy snack. You can freeze them both cooked or uncooked.
Freezing and Reheating Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Freezing your homemade egg rolls is an excellent way to enjoy them anytime. The process is simple for both cooked and uncooked varieties:
Freezing Uncooked Egg Rolls: After assembling your egg rolls, place them in a single layer on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Ensure they are not touching each other. Place the tray in the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until the egg rolls are solid. This “flash freezing” prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the solid egg rolls to a freezer-safe plastic bag or airtight container. They will keep well for up to 2-3 months. To cook from frozen, simply add 1-2 minutes to the air frying time, no need to thaw!
Freezing Cooked Egg Rolls: If you have leftover cooked egg rolls, you can freeze them too! Follow the same flash-freezing process: place them on a baking tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat frozen cooked egg rolls, preheat your air fryer to 350ºF (175ºC) and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as air fryer models can vary, to prevent burning.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Egg Rolls
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook egg rolls in a single layer with space between them for air to circulate. This is crucial for achieving that even, crispy texture. Overcrowding will result in steamed, soggy egg rolls.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures consistent cooking temperatures from the start, leading to better browning and crispiness.
- Brush with Oil Evenly: A light, even coating of vegetable oil (or another neutral oil) on the outside of each egg roll is key. This helps them crisp up and achieve that beautiful golden color. An oil mister or pastry brush works wonders.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Air fryers vary greatly in power and efficiency. The suggested cooking times are a guideline; keep an eye on your egg rolls, especially the first batch, and adjust as needed.
- Flip Halfway: Flipping the egg rolls ensures both sides get direct exposure to the circulating hot air, resulting in uniform crispiness.
- Cool the Filling: Before wrapping, allow your pork and vegetable filling to cool slightly. Hot filling can make the wrappers more difficult to handle and prone to tearing.
- Seal Tightly: Use water to thoroughly moisten and seal the edges of the egg roll wrappers. A good seal prevents the filling from escaping and keeps the wrapper intact.
Serving Suggestions and Delicious Variations
These air fryer egg rolls are incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways. They make a fantastic appetizer for parties, a satisfying snack, or even a light main course when paired with other dishes.
Dipping Sauce Ideas:
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A classic pairing, offering a delightful balance of sweet and spicy.
- Duck Sauce: That tangy, fruity, and slightly sweet sauce often found at Chinese restaurants.
- Soy-Ginger Dipping Sauce: Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic for a homemade option.
- Hot Mustard or Sriracha: For those who love an extra kick!
Complementary Dishes:
- Pair them with other homemade Asian favorites like Stir Fry Noodles, Egg Drop Soup, or Chicken Lo Mein for a complete “takeout at home” experience.
- Serve alongside a fresh Asian-inspired salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Exciting Filling Variations:
While the classic pork and cabbage filling is delicious, feel free to get creative with your egg rolls!
- Chicken or Turkey Egg Rolls: Replace ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
- Vegetarian Egg Rolls: Sauté mushrooms, shredded carrots, bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, and extra cabbage with a similar sauce for a flavorful vegetarian option.
- Shrimp Egg Rolls: Finely chopped shrimp mixed with shredded vegetables and Asian seasonings.
- Experiment with Spices: Add a pinch of five-spice powder, a dash of white pepper, or a bit of sriracha to the filling for added complexity and heat.
- Don’t be afraid to try unique fusion ideas, like these fun Meatball Sub Egg Rolls! The possibilities are endless.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Q: Can I use spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers?
A: While similar, egg roll wrappers are typically thicker and yield a chewier, heartier crunch. Spring roll wrappers are much thinner and can be more delicate to work with. If you use spring roll wrappers, your cooking time might need to be adjusted slightly, and they might become crispier faster.
Q: What kind of oil is best for brushing on egg rolls?
A: A neutral high-smoke point oil like vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil works best. Olive oil has a lower smoke point and can impart a flavor that might not be ideal for this recipe.
Q: My egg rolls aren’t getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?
A: Common reasons for non-crispy egg rolls include overcrowding the air fryer basket, not preheating the air fryer, or not brushing them with enough oil. Ensure adequate air circulation and an even coating of oil.
Q: How do I store leftover cooked air fryer egg rolls?
A: Allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, reheat them in the air fryer at 350ºF (175ºC) for 3-5 minutes until crispy again.
Q: Can I bake these egg rolls in a conventional oven?
A: Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400ºF (200ºC). Brush the egg rolls with oil and bake on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. The texture might not be as uniformly crispy as in an air fryer, but they will still be delicious.
Making egg rolls in the air fryer has quickly become a favorite in many homes. It’s an efficient way to enjoy a classic Chinese takeout staple with all the flavor and crispiness, but none of the deep-fried guilt. Whether you stick to this delicious traditional filling or venture into creative variations, these homemade air fryer egg rolls are sure to be a hit!
More Delicious Asian Recipes to Try
- Stir Fry Noodles
- Egg Drop Soup
- Chicken Lo Mein
- Garlic Beef Noodle Bowls
- Kung Pao Chicken
- General Tso’s Chicken
Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Rate Recipe
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 20 egg roll wrappers
- 1 pound ground pork
- 2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated or minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 14 oz bag coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced
- Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions
-
In a large skillet heat ground pork over high heat, breaking up until fully cooked. Drain any fat.
-
Add garlic and ginger, cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
-
In a small bowl mix together soy sauce, salt, sugar, rice vinegar and sesame oil. Pour into pork mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is well coated.
-
In a large bowl mix together coleslaw mix and green onions. Add the hot ground pork and mix until well combined.
-
Place an egg roll wrapper on the surface in front of you, at an angle, so the point is facing you.
-
Put about 1/4-1/3 cup of filling into the center. Dip your finger in water and moisten the outside edge of the entire wrapper.
-
Fold the edge over the filling.
-
Fold in both sides over the filling, gently pressing down to seal.
-
Roll the egg roll up tightly. Set aside and finish with the rest of the wrappers.
-
Brush 4-5 egg rolls (however many can fit in a single layer in your air fryer) with vegetable oil. Arrange in air fryer and cook at 390º for 6 minutes, flip and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy.
-
Remove from air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Like this recipe? Leave a comment below!
I created a fun group on Facebook, and I would love for you to join us! It’s a place where you can share YOUR favorite recipes, ask questions, and see what’s new at Dinners, Dishes and Desserts (so that you never miss a new recipe)!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and tag #dinnersdishes so I can see all the wonderful DINNERS, DISHES, AND DESSERTS recipes YOU make!
Be sure to follow me on my social media, so you never miss a post!
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Instagram