Spring rolls are a beloved dish in many cuisines, celebrated for their crisp texture, endless fillings, and versatile flavor. This recipe for Shrimp and Broccoli Spring Rolls with Cheese offers a fresh twist, combining the crunchiness of spring roll wrappers with the savory filling of shrimp, broccoli, and grated cheese. The result is a dish that’s both satisfying and elegant, perfect for appetizers, snacks, or even as a main course with a side salad.

The inclusion of grated cheese adds a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the shrimp and vegetables, creating a delightful balance of flavors and textures. These rolls are ideal for entertaining guests, as they can be prepared in advance and cooked just before serving. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating your family to a special meal, these spring rolls will leave everyone asking for more.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Spring rolls have been enjoyed across the globe for centuries, with variations appearing in cuisines ranging from Chinese to Vietnamese to Mediterranean. Their enduring popularity is due to their adaptability—spring rolls can be filled with nearly any combination of ingredients, making them a versatile dish that suits any occasion or dietary preference.

This recipe combines traditional elements with modern twists, such as the addition of cheese, which enhances the filling’s flavor and texture. It’s a dish that feels both nostalgic and innovative, appealing to all generations. The balance of fresh, healthy ingredients with indulgent cheese and crispy wrappers ensures it remains a favorite for years to come.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 (Makes 12 rolls)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250 kcal

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 250 g broccoli, chopped into small florets
• 250 g shrimp, peeled, deveined, and roughly chopped
• ½ carrot, grated
• 100 g grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella recommended)

For Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cooking wine
• ¼ tsp white pepper
• 1 tsp starch (cornstarch or potato starch, mixed with 2 tsp water to form a slurry)

For Wrapping:

• 300 g spring roll wrappers (approximately 12 wrappers)

For Frying:

• Cooking oil (enough for deep-frying or shallow frying)

How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Spring Rolls with Cheese

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 2 minutes until vibrant green. Remove and transfer to an ice bath to retain their color and crispness. Drain and chop finely.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Stir in cooking wine, salt, and white pepper for seasoning. Remove from heat.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, cooked shrimp, grated carrot, and grated cheese. Mix well.
4. Thicken the Filling: Stir in the starch slurry and mix until the filling is slightly thickened and cohesive. Let the mixture cool.

Step 2: Assemble the Spring Rolls

1. Prepare the Wrappers: Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing toward you, forming a diamond shape.
2. Add the Filling: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the shrimp and broccoli filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper.
3. Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a dab of water or starch slurry to secure. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Cook the Spring Rolls

1. Heat the Oil: In a deep skillet or pot, heat cooking oil to 180°C (356°F). If using a frying thermometer, maintain this temperature for even cooking.
2. Fry the Rolls: Fry the spring rolls in small batches, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
3. Drain: Remove the spring rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Serve the spring rolls hot, garnished with chopped parsley or sesame seeds if desired.
2. Dipping Sauce: Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or garlic aioli.

Tips for Making Perfect Spring Rolls

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and broccoli ensure the best flavor and texture.
2. Don’t Overfill: Adding too much filling can cause the rolls to burst while frying. Stick to 2-3 tablespoons per wrapper.
3. Seal the Wrappers Properly: Ensure the edges are sealed tightly with water or starch slurry to prevent oil from seeping inside during frying.
4. Control the Oil Temperature: Frying at the correct temperature (180°C/356°F) ensures crispy rolls without being greasy.
5. Experiment with Fillings: Swap the shrimp for chicken, tofu, or mushrooms for a variation.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 400 mg

FAQs

1. Can I bake the spring rolls instead of frying?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Brush the spring rolls with a thin layer of oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.

2. Can I make the spring rolls in advance?
Absolutely. Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before frying. For longer storage, freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months.

3. What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar, mozzarella, or a cheese blend with good melting properties works well for this recipe.

4. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or shredded cabbage make excellent additions or substitutes for broccoli and carrots.

5. What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
Sweet chili sauce, garlic aioli, soy sauce, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip complements the flavors wonderfully.

Storage Tips

1. Refrigeration: Store cooked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for crispiness.
2. Freezing: Freeze uncooked spring rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
3. Reheating: Avoid microwaving, as it can make the rolls soggy. Instead, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (356°F) for 5-7 minutes.

Why This Recipe is a Classic

Shrimp and broccoli spring rolls combine timeless techniques with fresh, modern flavors. Their versatility, ease of preparation, and universal appeal make them a go-to recipe for cooks of all skill levels. The addition of cheese introduces a unique twist, adding richness and indulgence to this traditional favorite.

The dish is also endlessly adaptable, allowing for creativity in ingredients and presentation. Whether served as an appetizer, a snack, or a light meal, these spring rolls bring joy to any table, making them a classic in every sense.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Broccoli Spring Rolls with Cheese are a delightful combination of crispy textures, fresh vegetables, and creamy, savory flavors. This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, looking for a creative dinner idea, or simply indulging in your love of spring rolls, this dish delivers in every way.

Take the time to prepare these rolls, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Their timeless appeal ensures they’ll remain a favorite in your recipe collection for years to come.