Chinese egg rolls are a popular appetizer that perfectly combines crispy, crunchy textures with savory, flavorful fillings. Often served as a starter at Chinese restaurants or as a snack at home, egg rolls are a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. They are easy to make and are always a hit at gatherings, parties, and family dinners.
The filling for Chinese egg rolls typically consists of shredded cabbage, carrots, and sometimes bean sprouts, all seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful base. Ground pork, chicken, or shrimp are often added for protein, although vegetarian versions with tofu are also popular. The mixture is lightly sautéed until the vegetables are tender and the meat is cooked through, creating a savory and slightly crunchy filling that’s ready to be rolled up.
Once the filling is prepared, the next step is wrapping it in egg roll wrappers. These thin, square wrappers are filled with the vegetable and meat mixture, then tightly rolled and sealed with a bit of water to ensure they stay closed while frying. The egg rolls are deep-fried in hot oil until golden brown and crispy, giving them that irresistible crunch on the outside while the inside stays warm and flavorful.
Chinese egg rolls are best served hot, straight from the fryer. They’re typically paired with dipping sauces like sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or duck sauce, which complement the savory flavors of the filling and add an extra layer of sweetness or tang.
While egg rolls are traditionally deep-fried, they can also be baked for a lighter version, though they won’t have the same crispy exterior. For a healthy twist, try using whole wheat wrappers or adding extra vegetables for more crunch and flavor.
Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner or a special occasion, Chinese egg rolls are sure to impress with their delicious combination of flavors and textures. They are a simple, satisfying dish that never fails to please.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork lean
- 2 cups cabbage shredded
- 1 cup carrots shredded
- 1 teaspoon ginger freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 24-pack egg roll wrappers
- 2-3 cups vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the pork until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, and ginger to the skillet and cook for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the soy sauce and remove the mixture from the heat. Allow the filling to cool slightly.
- Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of an egg roll wrapper. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edges with a little water.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to about 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the egg rolls in the hot oil until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Nutrition
These egg rolls were a hit at my family gathering! Tasted just like the ones from my fave Chinese restaurant!
Whats an egg roll? I thought they were just fried tortillas filled with meat? confused…
Egg rolls are totally different! They’re filled with veggies and meat, wrapped and fried. Not just tortillas. You’ll love them if you try! 😊
Meh, they were ok. I think I prefer store-bought ones.
Yummy! But why do people use ginger? It doesn’t need it. Just more soy sauce for flavor!
I think ginger adds a nice kick! But more soy sauce sounds good too. Everyone has their own taste, I guess.
I tried making these but they turned into a disaster. They fell apart in the oil!
Sounds like you might’ve overfilled them! Try using less filling next time.
I love Chinese food, and these taste so good! My family devoured them in no time.
So good! Made them for a party and they were gone in minutes. Everyone loved them!
Easy to follow! I used chicken instead of pork because that’s what I had. Still turned out great!
Great job substituting chicken! I’m glad it turned out well for you. I love how flexible this recipe is!
Is it really traditional to add ginger? I thought it’s mostly soy and veggies. Not sure if I’ll try this.
My grandma used to make these when I was a kid! Brings back memories. Thanks for the recipe!
These egg rolls are amazing! So crispy and flavorful. Will definitely make again!
Weird but I don’t have ginger so I just skipped it. Still tasted okay.
These egg rolls are amazing! They remind me of my grandma’s recipe. Will definitely make these again!
I’m so glad you enjoyed them! Grandma’s recipes always have that special touch! What sauce do you like to dip them in?
These egg rolls are just ok. Would rather do takeout. 🤷♂️
I don’t know, they look good! Maybe you just didn’t season them enough? 🤔
Takeout is way better, but making them at home is fun! You might like it more next time.
These egg rolls are absolutely delicious! My family devoured them in minutes. Highly recommend!
I’m so glad you loved them! They are a hit in my family too. What’s your favorite dipping sauce to serve with them?
Not bad. But the carrots? I don’t think they belong there. Kinda weird!
I think the carrots add a nice crunch and sweetness! Just my opinion, though. 😊
I tried this recipe but the filling was too greasy and didn’t taste right. Maybe I did something wrong?
Mmm, love the crunch! I added some shrimp to the filling and it was a hit!
I had trouble sealing the wrappers. They kept falling apart. Any tips?
I love this recipe! My kids couldn’t get enough! Thanks for sharing!
Sounds good but I don’t know if my kids would like the ginger. What if I just skip it? Will it still taste okay?
That’s awesome to hear! Egg rolls are a family favorite in our house too. Do you have any dipping sauce recommendations?
Super easy recipe! I didn’t even need to look at the recipe after making it once.
Egg rolls are easy to make but I always mess up the rolling part. Still haven’t got it!
Best recipe for egg rolls I’ve found! They come out perfect every time!
Egg roll wrappers are too hard to find at my store. I will try with tortillas instead.
I dunno, tasted kinda bland to me. Where’s the flavor? Need more soy sauce.
I tried this recipe and it was way too oily for my taste. Maybe use less oil next time?
Cabbage and carrots? Sounds healthy but where’s the meat? Haha.
Haha, yeah! But the pork makes up for it! You gotta have that flavor. 🍖