Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls are a delightful and savory appetizer or snack, perfect for any occasion. These homemade rolls are packed with a flavorful mix of shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and scallions, seasoned with aromatic ginger, garlic, and a blend of spices. Wrapped in crispy spring roll sheets and deep-fried to a golden brown, they offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of fresh flavors. Ideal for serving with your favorite dipping sauces, these spring rolls are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 10 spring roll sheets
• 1 lb (450g) cabbage, shredded
• 2 medium carrots, julienned
• 4 scallions (green onions), finely chopped
• 1/2 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1/2 tbsp garlic, grated
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
• 1/2 tsp Chinese 5 spice powder
• 4 cups oil (or as needed for frying)
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp water

Method:

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and chopped scallions.
• Add the grated ginger and garlic to the vegetable mixture.

2. Season the Filling:

• Add salt, sugar, soy sauce, black pepper powder, and Chinese 5 spice powder to the vegetable mixture.
• Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.

3. Prepare the Wrapper Paste:

• In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp of all-purpose flour with 2 tbsp of water to form a paste. This will be used to seal the spring rolls.

4. Assemble the Spring Rolls:

• Lay a spring roll sheet on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you, forming a diamond shape.
• Place a portion of the vegetable filling near the bottom corner of the sheet.
• Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the left and right corners towards the center.
• Roll the spring roll upwards, keeping it tight and secure.
• Apply a small amount of the flour paste to the top corner to seal the roll.
• Repeat the process with the remaining sheets and filling.

5. Fry the Spring Rolls:

• Heat the oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully add the spring rolls to the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
• Fry the spring rolls until they are golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
• Remove the fried spring rolls and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

• Serve the spring rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy your delicious homemade spring rolls!

Nutritional Information (per spring roll, based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 2g

Additional Information:

Storage:

• Leftover spring rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked spring rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions:

• These spring rolls are perfect for dipping into sauces like soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or hoisin sauce. They also make a great accompaniment to a variety of Asian-inspired dishes.

Troubleshooting:

• If the spring rolls are not staying sealed, make sure to use enough flour paste and press the edges firmly. If the rolls are not crisping up, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying.

Possible Questions:

1. Can I use a different type of vegetable for the filling?
   • Yes, you can substitute the cabbage, carrots, and scallions with other vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts. Just ensure to finely chop or julienne the vegetables and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
2. How can I make these spring rolls in advance?
   • You can prepare the spring rolls up to the point of frying and then freeze them. Arrange the uncooked spring rolls on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. What can I use if I don’t have a deep fryer?
   • You can use a large, deep pan or wok for frying. Ensure the oil is deep enough to submerge the spring rolls, and use a thermometer to maintain the correct temperature. Alternatively, you can also bake the spring rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. What is a good dipping sauce for these spring rolls?
   • Spring rolls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or a spicy chili sauce. You can also make a simple dipping sauce by mixing soy sauce with a bit of rice vinegar and a touch of honey.

Conclusion:

Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls are a versatile and delicious option for any meal or celebration. Their combination of fresh vegetables and spices, wrapped in a crunchy shell, makes them an irresistible treat. With easy-to-follow steps and adaptable ingredients, you can customize these rolls to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful results and impress your family and friends with this delightful homemade dish!