Description
These easy homemade Chinese egg rolls are perfectly crispy on the outside with a savory, well-seasoned filling inside. Made with simple ingredients like cabbage, carrots, garlic, and ginger, this recipe delivers classic takeout flavor with fresher taste and full control over ingredients. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, these egg rolls are crunchy, satisfying, and ideal for any occasion.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
- Home cooks who want restaurant-quality egg rolls at home
- Families looking for a fun, shareable appetizer
- Meal preppers who enjoy freezer-friendly foods
- Anyone who wants healthier or customizable takeout-style dishes
- Beginners seeking a reliable, step-by-step egg roll recipe
Why It’s Great
- Crispy texture with a flavorful, balanced filling
- Easy to customize with different proteins or vegetables
- Works with deep-frying, baking, or air frying
- Great for make-ahead meals and freezing
- Uses simple ingredients found in most grocery stores
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, shrimp, or crumbled tofu)
- 4 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- ½ cup chopped shiitake mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For Wrapping & Cooking
- 1 package egg roll wrappers (20–24 sheets)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Vegetable or peanut oil, for frying
For Serving
- Sweet and sour sauce
- Duck sauce
- Spicy mustard or chili sauce
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or wok
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Mixing bowl or colander
- Clean work surface
- Small bowl (for sealing paste)
- Heavy pot or fryer (if deep-frying)
- Baking sheet or air fryer (optional)
Instructions
1. Make the Filling
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook briefly until fragrant.
Add cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and green onions. Stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until vegetables soften but remain slightly crisp. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for one additional minute, then transfer the filling to a bowl and allow it to cool completely.
2. Wrap the Egg Rolls
Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface in a diamond shape. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the bottom corner. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly upward. Seal the edge with cornstarch paste and place seam-side down. Repeat until all filling is used.
3. Cook the Egg Rolls
Deep-Frying (Crispiest Result):
Heat oil to 350–375°F (175–190°C). Fry egg rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Baking (Healthier Option):
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly brush egg rolls with oil and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Air Fryer:
Spray egg rolls lightly with oil and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8–12 minutes, flipping once.
4. Serve
Allow egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for the best flavor experience.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Cooked egg rolls keep for 3–4 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness
FAQ
Can I make egg rolls ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the filling in advance or freeze wrapped, uncooked egg rolls for later use.
Why should the filling cool before wrapping?
Warm filling creates steam, which can cause soggy wrappers and splitting during cooking.
What’s the best oil for frying egg rolls?
Neutral oils like vegetable or peanut oil work best due to their high smoke point.
Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely. Use mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and tofu with hoisin sauce.
Conclusion
Easy Homemade Chinese Egg Rolls prove that you don’t need takeout to enjoy crispy, flavorful appetizers at home. With a well-seasoned filling, proper wrapping technique, and flexible cooking methods, these egg rolls deliver consistent results every time. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or freezer meals, this recipe is a must-have for any home cook who loves classic Asian-inspired comfort food.
