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Crispy air fryer spring rolls have become my go-to when I want something crunchy and satisfying without turning on the stove or oven. They are fast to make whether you are planning a casual night or need an appetizer for friends and family These rolls deliver all the golden exterior and warm vegetable filling of restaurant versions but skip the extra oil.
The first time I tried making these was after a long day when I craved takeout I was shocked at how easy it was to get that perfect crunch and now my friends beg for them every game night
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil: Two tablespoons This helps soften veggies and carry flavors Use a neutral-tasting oil for best results
- Napa cabbage: Two cups finely shredded Adds tender crunch Look for firm and brightly colored leaves when shopping
- Bean sprouts: Two cups Provides moisture and slight sweetness Always choose fresh crisp sprouts
- Carrots: One cup finely shredded Sweetness and vivid color Use fresh carrots with firm texture
- Mushrooms: One cup finely chopped Brings umami and earthiness Go for firm mushrooms without spots
- Green onion: Half cup finely sliced Boosts aroma and flavor Choose bright green stalks with no wilting
- Cornstarch mixed with water: Both as binder and for sealing rolls Make sure it is mixed smooth to avoid lumps
- White sugar: One and a half tablespoons Enhances flavors A gentle touch of sweetness rounds things out
- Salt: One teaspoon Essential seasoning Use fine salt for even distribution
- Ground black pepper: Half teaspoon Adds mild background heat Fresh ground is best
- Spring roll wrappers: Eight to twelve Check the freezer section and look for ones made with wheat not rice flour
- Oil for brushing: Two to three tablespoons Helps brown the wrappers evenly Brushing works far better than spraying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Veggies:
- Finely shred the cabbage and carrots chop the mushrooms and slice the green onion This ensures even cooking and filling that is easy to wrap
- Sauté the Filling:
- In a large pan over medium heat add vegetable oil Once shimmering add napa cabbage bean sprouts carrots and mushrooms Stir constantly for two to three minutes until the veggies begin to soften but are not mushy
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the sliced green onion plus the first batch of cornstarch mixed with water sugar salt and pepper to the pan Keep tossing for one to two minutes The finished veggies should look slightly wilted but retain a bit of crunch Take off the heat and let them cool slightly
- Wrap the Spring Rolls:
- Place one spring roll wrapper with a corner facing you Dab a line of the second cornstarch and water mixture across the top edge Spoon about three tablespoons of the filling near the bottom corner Fold up the bottom corner over the filling tuck in the sides and roll snugly towards the top edge Use more cornstarch mixture to seal if needed Continue until all filling is used
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for three minutes This ensures an even bake
- Brush and Arrange Rolls:
- Lightly brush each roll on all sides with oil Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer with a little space between each one
- Air Fry Until Crispy:
- Cook at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for twelve to fifteen minutes Flip the rolls halfway through so both sides turn evenly crisp
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My favorite filling add-in is shredded mushrooms They soak up the seasoning and keep the middle moist plus my little brother always tries to steal the mushroom-heavy rolls before they hit the table
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked spring rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator They keep well for up to three days Reheat in the air fryer for three minutes at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit to restore crispiness Freezing is possible but for best results freeze before air frying then cook straight from the freezer adding two to four minutes to the cook time
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap napa cabbage for regular green cabbage or savoy if needed Omit mushrooms if you want a milder taste and double up on carrots or sprouts Try adding cabbage slaw mix to save on prep If you cannot find spring roll wrappers egg roll wrappers will work though they are slightly thicker
Serving Suggestions
These rolls shine alongside a simple dipping sauce Soy sauce mixed with a dash of rice vinegar or sweet chili sauce makes them extra tasty For a party serve with a platter of pickled veggies to balance the richness Sometimes I serve with a large bowl of noodle salad for a complete meal
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Cultural Note
Spring rolls are a classic appetizer across many Asian countries but the air fryer technique is a modern adaptation Typically made to celebrate festive occasions they now fit easily into everyday home cooking thanks to new appliances Their popularity reflects the mix of convenience and tradition
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do you prevent spring rolls from becoming soggy in the air fryer?
Lightly brush oil on all sides and avoid overcrowding the basket to promote even crisping. Ensure the filling isn't too wet.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with air fryer spring rolls?
Popular choices include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin, or a tangy vinaigrette. Serve whichever you prefer.
- → Can I add meat to the filling?
Yes, cooked ground pork or shredded chicken can be mixed with the vegetables for extra flavor and protein.
- → Are egg roll wrappers suitable substitutes for spring roll wrappers?
While not identical, egg roll wrappers can substitute if spring roll wrappers are unavailable. Expect a different texture.
- → How can I store and reheat leftover spring rolls?
Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes to recover the crispiness.