Crispy Egg Rolls in Air Fryer: Quick and Easy Recipe

Growing up, the smell of sizzling egg rolls was always comforting in our kitchen. I remember the excitement of dipping them into tangy sauce. Now, as a busy parent, I make air fryer egg rolls for a healthier, easier taste of childhood.

Air fryer egg rolls are a tasty swap for deep-fried ones. They’re crispy but use much less oil. This recipe is simple, perfect for weeknights or parties. You can prep the filling early, so your egg rolls are ready fast.

What Are Egg Rolls?

Egg rolls are a favorite Chinese-American appetizer found in many homes. But, they don’t actually have eggs. They’re made from wheat flour, water, and sometimes a bit of oil or salt.

The History of Egg Rolls

The egg roll’s roots go back to the spring roll, a dish from China for centuries. Chinese immigrants brought this dish to the U.S., where it grew into the fried egg roll we love today. It’s now a key part of Chinese-American food.

Ingredients Typically Used

• Cabbage
• Carrot
• Onion
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Protein (such as pork, chicken, or shrimp)
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil

These ingredients mix to make the tasty filling of an egg roll.

Variations of Egg Rolls

There are many egg roll types to suit different tastes. Vegetarian egg rolls with fresh veggies are popular. Seafood like shrimp or crab adds a tasty twist. Different places and cultures have their own egg roll styles, showing how versatile this dish is.

Benefits of Cooking Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer

Using an air fryer can make your egg roll experience better. It turns your favorite snacks into healthier, quicker options. This is thanks to the air fryer’s unique benefits.

Healthier Cooking Option

Deep-frying can make egg rolls greasy and heavy. But, air frying changes that. It uses little to no oil, making the egg rolls crispy and less fatty.

This makes air-fried egg rolls a great choice for those watching their diet. They’re a tasty treat without the guilt.

Time-Saving Convenience

Preparing egg rolls in an air fryer is fast. It takes just 7-8 minutes, unlike 13-14 minutes in an oven. Air fryers also heat up faster, at 400°F, compared to ovens at 425°F.

This means you can make delicious, healthy egg rolls quickly. It’s a big advantage for those looking for quick appetizers that are also good for you.

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Egg Rolls

To make tasty air fryer egg rolls, start with the right ingredients. You’ll need egg roll wrappers, a tasty filling, and some seasonings. Whether you like traditional or veggie options, the right mix makes all the difference.

Wrapper Choices

The base of an egg roll is the wrapper. You can choose wheat-based or go for gluten-free like rice paper or wonton wrappers. For this recipe, you’ll need about 18 wrappers for a great batch.

Filling Options

• Ground meat (pork, chicken, or turkey) for a classic filling
• Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix for a crunchy texture
• Carrots, green onions, garlic, and ginger for added flavor
• Soy sauce and sesame oil to season the filling
• Vegetarian alternatives like sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a blend of fresh vegetables

The filling is the heart of your egg rolls. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite. Whether it’s meat or veggies, aim for a mix of flavors and textures.

With the right ingredients, you’re ready to make delicious air fryer egg rolls. The secret to success is balancing flavors and textures in your filling.

Preparing the Filling for Egg Rolls

Making the perfect egg roll filling is key to delicious, crispy egg rolls. You can use ground meat like chicken or pork with fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and onions. The secret is to mix garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil just right.

Popular Filling Combinations

• Ground chicken or pork mixed with shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions
• Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and water chestnuts for a vegetarian-friendly option
• Seasoned tofu, bean sprouts, and scallions for a plant-based filling

How to Season Your Filling

To make a flavorful egg roll filling, follow these tips:

1. Sauté the ground meat with minced garlic and ginger until cooked and fragrant.
2. Add a few tablespoons of low-sodium soy sauce and a teaspoon of sesame oil for depth.
3. For more flavor, add a pinch of white pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
4. Mix the cooked meat and veggies well, letting the flavors combine before making your egg rolls.

By balancing the seasoning and keeping the filling just right, you’ll get egg rolls that are crunchy and savory. Try different ingredients to make your own egg roll filling recipes that you love.

Wrapping Egg Rolls: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting the perfect crispy exterior on your air fryer egg rolls starts with wrapping. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof egg roll folding technique.

Tips for Perfect Wrapping

1. Place the egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape in front of you.
2. Spoon the prepared filling onto the bottom third of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and tightly roll up the wrapper.
4. Wet the top corner with water or egg wash to seal the edge and keep the roll closed.

The key is to avoid overfilling the wrappers, which can cause them to tear. Keep a tight seal to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the wrappers – this makes them difficult to roll and can lead to bursting or tearing
• Not sealing the edges properly – a loose seal will cause the filling to spill out
• Letting the wrapped rolls sit for too long before cooking – this can cause the wrappers to get soggy

With a little practice, you’ll be wrapping egg rolls like a pro in no time. The reward? Perfectly crispy, golden brown egg rolls every time.

Prepping the Air Fryer

Before you can enjoy the irresistible crunch of homemade air fryer egg rolls, you need to ensure your air fryer is properly preheated. The key to achieving that perfect crispy exterior lies in setting the right temperature and allowing your air fryer ample time to reach the optimal cooking conditions.

Choosing the Right Temperature

For best results, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature strikes the perfect balance, ensuring your egg rolls cook through evenly while developing a golden, crispy crust. Most air fryer models will require 3-5 minutes to fully preheat, so be sure to factor in this crucial step before adding your prepared egg rolls.

Preheating Tips

• Consult your air fryer’s user manual for specific preheating instructions, as cooking times may vary slightly between different brands and models.
• Once the air fryer has preheated, resist the urge to open the basket repeatedly, as this can disrupt the consistent heat and airflow necessary for optimal cooking.
• If your air fryer has a “preheat” function, be sure to utilize it for best results. This feature ensures the unit reaches the ideal temperature before you start cooking.

By following these simple preheating tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying delightfully crispy, restaurant-quality air fryer egg rolls in the comfort of your own home.

Cooking Your Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer

Getting your egg rolls crispy is easy with an air fryer. Just follow a few simple steps. Your egg rolls will be golden-brown and crunchy every time.

Cooking Time Guidelines

First, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd.

Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway. For extra crispiness, brush with oil before and after flipping.

How to Check for Crispiness

• Check for a golden-brown color on the outside.
• Gently touch them; they should feel crisp.
• If unsure, cut one in half to check the inside.

Cooking times can vary. It depends on egg roll size and air fryer model. Watch them closely and adjust cooking time for the perfect crispiness.

“The secret to perfectly crispy air fryer egg rolls is all in the technique. With a few simple adjustments, you can achieve that golden-brown, crunchy exterior every time.”

Serving Suggestions and Dipping Sauces

When your crispy air fryer egg rolls are done, it’s time to serve them. Try sweet and sour sauce, duck sauce, or soy sauce for a classic taste. Or, mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar for a homemade sauce.

Want to get creative? Serve the egg rolls with an Asian salad or a rice dish. You can also add them to an appetizer platter. Top with green onions or sesame seeds for a nice touch.

Traditional Dipping Sauce Recipes

• Sweet and Sour Sauce: Combine 1/4 cup rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
• Duck Sauce: Mix 1/4 cup apricot preserves, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, and 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard.
• Soy Sauce Dip: Simply use high-quality soy sauce as a dipping sauce for your air fryer egg rolls.

Creative Serving Ideas

1. Serve the egg rolls as part of an Asian-inspired appetizer platter, accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces.
2. Pair the egg rolls with a fresh and crunchy Asian slaw or salad for a balanced and satisfying meal.
3. Incorporate the egg rolls into a rice bowl or noodle dish, adding a delightful crunch to the overall dish.

Enjoy your air fryer egg rolls hot and crispy. With the right sauces and serving ideas, they’ll be a hit at any event.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Egg Rolls

Enjoying homemade egg rolls is a treat. But what about leftovers? Storing and reheating them right can keep them fresh and crunchy.

Best Practices for Storage

For fresh leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to 3 months. Just thaw them before reheating.

Reheating Tips for Crispiness

To keep leftover egg rolls crispy, use your air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and reheat the egg rolls for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway. This method brings back their crunchy texture.

Or, reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Place them on a wire rack for even heating. Avoid the microwave to prevent them from getting soggy.

Follow these tips for storing and reheating leftover egg rolls. They’ll taste as good as when you first made them. Enjoy having tasty egg rolls ready whenever you want!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Starting your air fryer egg roll adventure might bring up some common problems. But don’t worry, we’ve got tips to help your egg rolls come out crispy every time.

Why Your Egg Rolls Aren’t Crispy

If your air-fried egg rolls aren’t crispy, there are a few things to check. First, make sure you lightly oil the wrappers before cooking. Dry wrappers can make them less crispy.

Also, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. This stops the hot air from getting around and making the rolls crispy. If needed, try cooking them a bit longer or at a higher temperature.

What to Do If They Break Open

Sometimes, your egg rolls might break open while cooking. This often happens if you put too much filling or didn’t seal the edges well. To avoid this, use the right amount of filling and seal the edges with egg wash or water.

If a roll does break, don’t fret. Just cook it until it’s done and serve the filling right away. This way, you won’t lose much. Use this chance to improve your wrapping and filling skills for next time.

Source Links

• Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls – https://www.foodfaithfitness.com/air-fryer-egg-rolls/
• Air Fryer Egg Rolls – https://preppykitchen.com/air-fryer-egg-rolls/
• Air Fryer Egg Rolls (Homemade or Frozen) – https://40aprons.com/air-fryer-egg-rolls/
• Air-Fryer Egg Rolls – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/air-fryer-egg-rolls/?srsltid=AfmBOoq28xPZd0Jz2k0oGOxnMfBB5T2gXrdsjGI5W1I7EWUdeTnf5o07
• How to Cook Costco Egg Rolls: Crispy Secrets Revealed – Burpy – https://burpy.com/how-to-cook-costco-egg-rolls/
• Air Fryer Southwest Rolls – Lunds & Byerlys – https://corporate.lundsandbyerlys.com/air-fryer-southwest-rolls/
• Air-Fryer Egg Rolls – https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/air-fryer-egg-rolls/?srsltid=AfmBOorsIBICf8v9KK5n4kc_HjLy8uzGXQN9ml32kjsWq-VU2m2CDj5v
• Air Fryer Avocado Egg Rolls | AirFried.com – https://airfried.com/air-fryer-avocado-egg-rolls/
• Weight Watchers Air Fryer Egg Rolls – Recipe Diaries – https://www.recipe-diaries.com/air-fryer-egg-rolls/