Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
• 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Wrapper and Frying:

• 25-30 lumpia wrappers
• Vegetable oil for frying

Steps to Make Crispy Pork Lumpia:

1. Prepare the Filling:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, finely chopped carrots, shredded cabbage, onion, and minced garlic.
• Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Mix everything thoroughly using clean hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well combined.

2. Assemble the Lumpia:

• Lay a lumpia wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner facing you (like a diamond shape).
• Place 1-2 tablespoons of the pork mixture near the corner closest to you. Shape the filling into a small log, about 3-4 inches long.
• Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the two side corners inward. Roll the wrapper tightly towards the top corner, sealing the edge with a small amount of water or beaten egg.
• Repeat this process for the remaining wrappers and filling.

3. Fry the Lumpia:

• Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or skillet over medium heat. Ensure there’s enough oil to submerge at least half of the lumpia for even cooking.
• Once the oil is hot (about 350°F or 175°C), carefully place a few lumpia in the pan, seam side down. Do not overcrowd the pan.
• Fry the lumpia for 3-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove the cooked lumpia from the oil and drain on a plate lined with paper towels to remove excess oil.

4. Serve:

• Arrange the lumpia on a serving platter and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, vinegar with garlic, or a soy-based dip.

Nutrition Facts (Per Lumpia):
(Based on approximately 30 pieces)

• Calories: 110
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs:

1. Can I bake or air fry lumpia instead of deep-frying?
   Yes! To bake, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and brush the lumpia with oil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For air frying, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, also flipping halfway.
2. Can I freeze uncooked lumpia?
   Absolutely. Place the uncooked lumpia on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from frozen without thawing.
3. What other fillings can I use?
   You can substitute ground pork with chicken, beef, or shrimp. Vegetarians can use tofu or a mix of vegetables like mushrooms and bean sprouts.

Tips for the Best Lumpia:

1. Use Fresh Wrappers:
   Fresh lumpia wrappers are more pliable and less likely to tear. Keep them covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out while assembling.
2. Roll Tightly:
   Rolling the lumpia tightly ensures they hold their shape during frying and become crispier.
3. Don’t Overstuff:
   Avoid overfilling the wrappers, as this can make them difficult to seal and may cause them to burst during frying.
4. Test Oil Temperature:
   Before frying, test the oil by dropping a small piece of wrapper into it. If it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration:
  Store cooked lumpia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes to regain crispiness.
• Freezing:
  For uncooked lumpia, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the frying time.

Conclusion:

Crispy Pork Lumpia is a must-try recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its savory pork filling and perfectly crunchy wrapper, it’s a dish that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving them for a party, a casual snack, or a meal, these Filipino spring rolls will quickly disappear from the table. Paired with a tangy dipping sauce, this dish offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Make a batch today and bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen!