If you are craving a crunchy, flavorful snack or appetizer that feels like it came straight from your favorite Asian eatery, look no further than this Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe. It beautifully combines juicy, savory ground pork with a mix of tender vegetables wrapped carefully in thin, golden layers that fry to a perfect crisp. This recipe is a joy to make, offering the kind of satisfaction that comes from crafting something delicious right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or impressing friends at a gathering, these egg rolls bring a wonderful, irresistible crunch and balance of flavors every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a delicious filling and perfectly crispy exterior. Each component adds its unique touch, from the savory pork to the fresh veggies and the delicate seasoning that ties everything together.
- 1/2 pound ground pork: The hearty protein base that provides rich flavor and a juicy texture.
- 1/2 cup finely shredded cabbage: Adds crispness and a slightly sweet, fresh note to the filling.
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots: For a splash of vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami depth that complements the pork perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Gives a warm, nutty aroma that elevates the overall taste.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic: Infuses the filling with a mild pungency that wakes up the palate.
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger: Adds a slight zing and enhances the Asian-inspired flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the ingredients and enhances the savory notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Lends a gentle heat without overwhelming the dish.
- 12 egg roll wrappers: The crispy outer layer that envelops the filling and fries to golden perfection.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that irresistible, crunchy texture.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: Acts as the sealing glue to keep your rolls intact during frying.
How to Make Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pork
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and browning the ground pork until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. This is your flavorful protein base, so take care to break it up well. Once done, drain any excess fat to avoid greasy egg rolls, which helps keep them crispy.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasoning
To the cooked pork, add your shredded cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the vegetables soften but still retain a touch of crunch. This brief sauté melds the flavors and ensures the filling is delicious inside every bite. Allow the mixture to cool slightly before wrapping so the wrappers won’t get soggy.
Step 3: Prepare the Wrappers
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you, like a diamond shape. This orientation makes rolling easier and helps create a tight, neat package for your filling.
Step 4: Fill and Roll
Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up tightly over the filling and roll halfway. Then moisten the edges with your cornstarch slurry, which acts like glue to seal the wrapper. Fold in the left and right corners over the filling and continue rolling up toward the top corner, pressing firmly to seal the edges well. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until you have a dozen perfectly wrapped egg rolls.
Step 5: Fry to Crispy Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to crowd the pan or they won’t crisp evenly. Fry for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until each egg roll is a beautiful golden brown and delightfully crunchy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
How to Serve Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or fresh cilantro over your crispy egg rolls adds a fresh herbal touch and a pop of vibrant color. You can also dust with a light sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and a nutty finish.
Side Dishes
Pair your egg rolls with classic dipping sauces like sweet chili, soy sauce, or a tangy plum sauce to complement their savory flavor. They also shine alongside a fresh Asian-style slaw or steamed jasmine rice for a more substantial meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving your Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe as bite-sized party appetizers by cutting them in half diagonally and arranging on a colorful platter with dipping sauces in small bowls. For a fun twist, place each egg roll in an individual lettuce cup topped with herbs and a drizzle of spicy mayo for handheld delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness as much as possible, let them cool completely before storing and reheat them using an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.
Freezing
This Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe freezes beautifully. Before frying, place the wrapped egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry them straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Reheating
To reheat and bring back the satisfying crunch, use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) or an air fryer for about 5 to 7 minutes until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the wrappers soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or beef are great alternatives that work just as well in this Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe. Each brings a slightly different flavor but maintains that delicious texture.
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?
You can bake them for a lighter option! Brush the egg rolls with oil, place them on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and crispy. They won’t be quite as crunchy as fried but still very tasty.
How do I prevent the egg roll wrappers from tearing?
Keep the wrappers covered with a damp towel while working to prevent drying out, which can cause tearing. Also, avoid overfilling to make folding easier and less prone to ripping during rolling.
What dipping sauces pair best with these egg rolls?
Sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, or plum sauce are all fabulous choices that complement the pork and vegetables wonderfully.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! Making the filling a day ahead allows the flavors to deepen, and you can assemble and freeze the egg rolls when you’re ready. Just be sure to cool the filling completely before wrapping to keep the wrappers intact.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about making Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe from scratch. The crunchy wrapper enveloping that savory, well-seasoned filling is simply irresistible. I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s approachable, fun, and guaranteed to become a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions. Once you taste that golden crisp and flavorful interior, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to make them at home!
Print
Crispy Homemade Egg Rolls with Pork and Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 12 egg rolls
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese-American
Description
This classic egg roll recipe features a savory filling of ground pork and crunchy vegetables wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers. Fried to golden perfection, these homemade egg rolls are a delicious appetizer or snack that pair well with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1/2 pound ground pork (or chicken/beef)
- 1/2 cup finely shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
For Wrapping
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for sealing)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying, about 2-3 cups)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground pork until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, salt, and pepper to the skillet with the cooked meat. Cook together for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Prepare the Wrapper: Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you, creating a diamond shape.
- Add Filling: Place about 2 tablespoons of the cooked filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Start Rolling: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, rolling it tightly halfway up.
- Seal the Edges: Moisten the edges of the wrapper with the cornstarch and water mixture, which acts as a glue to keep the roll sealed.
- Fold the Sides: Fold in the left and right sides over the filling to encase it securely, then continue rolling until you reach the top corner.
- Finish Sealing: Press and seal the final edge firmly to keep the egg roll intact. Repeat the process with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C) to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully place a few egg rolls at a time into the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and become crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked egg rolls with a slotted spoon and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve: Serve the egg rolls warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or beef for the pork if preferred.
- Make sure not to overfill the wrappers to avoid tearing during rolling and frying.
- Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to ensure crispy and evenly cooked egg rolls.
- The cornstarch slurry is essential for sealing the egg rolls properly to prevent them from opening during frying.
- For a healthier option, consider baking or air frying instead of deep frying.
