ingredients and preparation
Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 spring roll wrappers
- Cooking spray or a light brush of vegetable oil
Preparation:
Start by preparing the filling. In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, and mushrooms if using. If you prefer a protein-packed filling, add the cooked and shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Mix in the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, and black pepper. Toss everything together until well combined.
Once the filling is ready, set up your workspace for rolling the spring rolls. Place a damp kitchen towel over the spring roll wrappers to keep them from drying out. Have a small bowl of water nearby to help seal the edges of the wrappers as you roll.
step-by-step cooking instructions
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
Now that your filling is prepared and your workspace is set up, it’s time to assemble and cook the spring rolls. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy air-fried spring rolls:
- Step 1: Lay out the wrapper – Place one spring roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface, with one corner pointing towards you, so it forms a diamond shape. Keep the remaining wrappers covered with the damp towel to prevent them from drying out.
- Step 2: Add the filling – Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the prepared filling onto the lower third of the wrapper, near the corner closest to you. Be careful not to overfill, as this can cause the wrapper to tear or the spring roll to burst during cooking.
- Step 3: Roll the spring roll – Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Next, fold in the left and right corners towards the center, like you’re folding an envelope. Continue rolling the wrapper upwards, keeping it tight but not too tight to avoid tearing. When you reach the top corner, dip your finger in the small bowl of water and lightly moisten the edge of the wrapper to seal it shut.
- Step 4: Prepare for air frying – Once all the spring rolls are assembled, lightly spray or brush them with vegetable oil or cooking spray. This will help them crisp up in the air fryer without the need for deep frying.
- Step 5: Preheat the air fryer – Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures that the spring rolls cook evenly and get that perfect golden-brown color.
- Step 6: Air fry the spring rolls – Place the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry the spring rolls for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping on all sides. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.
- Step 7: Check for doneness – Once the spring rolls are golden and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly. This will help maintain their crispiness.
tips for serving and storage
Tips for Serving and Storage:
Once your air-fried spring rolls are perfectly crispy and golden, it’s time to think about how to serve and store them for the best experience. Here are some tips to ensure your spring rolls are enjoyed at their finest:
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the spring rolls immediately after air frying for the best texture. They are at their crispiest when fresh out of the air fryer. Pair them with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance the flavors. Some popular options include sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, or a creamy peanut dipping sauce. For a more refreshing touch, serve alongside a light salad or pickled vegetables to balance the richness of the rolls.
- Garnishing: For an extra burst of flavor and presentation, garnish the spring rolls with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or finely chopped fresh herbs like cilantro or mint. A squeeze of lime juice over the top can also add a zesty brightness that complements the savory filling.
- Storage: If you have leftover spring rolls, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To maintain their crispiness, avoid stacking them directly on top of each other; instead, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers.
- Reheating: To reheat the spring rolls and restore their crispy texture, avoid using the microwave, as it can make them soggy. Instead, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
- Freezing: If you want to make a larger batch and freeze some for later, you can freeze the uncooked spring rolls. After assembling them, place the spring rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. No need to thaw!