Air Fryer Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of convenience and flavor, bringing all the satisfaction of traditional egg rolls with significantly less oil and grease. By using an air fryer, you can achieve a crisp, golden-brown exterior without compromising the taste or texture of the filling. Whether you’re preparing them for a family dinner, appetizers for a party, or just a snack to curb your cravings, air fryer egg rolls are a versatile and healthier alternative to the deep-fried classic. Plus, you can experiment with countless filling combinations, making them suitable for any dietary preference or occasion.
Why Choose an Air Fryer for Cooking Egg Rolls?
Air fryers use hot air circulation to achieve a crunchy, golden crust without the need for gallons of oil. Here’s why they’re the top choice for egg rolls:
- Healthier Cooking: By using a fraction of the oil, air-fried egg rolls are significantly lower in fat compared to deep-fried versions.
- Quicker Prep Time: No need to wait for oil to heat up—a simple preheat and you’re ready to go.
- Crispier Without the Mess: Less hassle and cleanup compared to traditional frying methods.
- Consistency: Air fryers ensure even cooking, eliminating the possibility of soggy or undercooked rolls.
If you’re after crunchy egg rolls without the guilt or mess, the air fryer should be your go-to appliance.
Air Fryer Egg Rolls: Not Just for Frozen Options
Making homemade air fryer egg rolls is easier than you might think and allows you to customize flavors according to your preference. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to creating your own delicious egg rolls from scratch:
- Prepare Your Filling: Choose your preferred ingredients, such as ground meat (chicken, pork, or turkey), shredded vegetables like cabbage and carrots, and seasonings such as garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook the mixture in a pan until fully cooked.
- Wrap the Egg Rolls: Lay out the egg roll wrappers, and place a spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly to seal. Use a dab of water to seal the edges.
- Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and arrange the egg rolls in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch for optimal crispiness.
- Cook to Perfection: Spray the egg rolls lightly with cooking oil spray to ensure they crisp evenly. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Serve with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or your favorite condiment.
By following these steps, you can savor homemade egg rolls that are crisp, flavorful, and a fraction of the calories compared to deep-fried versions.
Vegetarian Air Fryer Egg Rolls: A Healthy Twist
Vegetarian egg rolls are perfect if you’re looking for a light yet satisfying snack. Here’s how you can make them:
Ingredients:
- Shredded cabbage
- Carrots, finely julienned
- Green onions, chopped
- Soy sauce
- Garlic and ginger (minced)
- Egg roll wrappers
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables with a sprinkle of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger until tender.
- Lay out your wrappers, add the filling, and roll them up securely, sealing with a dab of water.
- Brush or spray the rolls lightly with oil and cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
The result? Crispy, golden rolls that are packed with flavor and nutrients.
Chicken Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 package egg roll wrappers
- Cooking oil (for brushing or spraying)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling
- Combine the shredded chicken, cabbage, carrots, and green onions in a large bowl.
- Add soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay one egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing toward you (shaped like a diamond).
- Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the top corner with a dab of water.
- Cook in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with oil to ensure crispiness.
- Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.
Enjoy these savory, crunchy chicken egg rolls as a perfect appetizer or snack!
Vietnamese Air Fryer Egg Rolls: A Traditional Delight
Vietnamese egg rolls, or “chả giò,” are a beloved traditional dish often served as appetizers or part of family gatherings. With the convenience of an air fryer, you can now enjoy this crispy and flavorful treat with less oil while preserving its authentic taste.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup ground pork or chicken
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup chopped bean sprouts
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons minced shallots
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- For the Egg Roll Wrappers:
- 12–15 rice paper sheets or egg roll wrappers
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling
- Mix ground pork (or chicken), vegetables, garlic, shallots, fish sauce, sugar, and black pepper in a large bowl. Combine thoroughly.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Place a wrapper on a flat surface.
- Spoon 1–2 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto one end of the wrapper.
- Fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edges with a little water.
- Air Fry the Egg Rolls
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with oil.
- Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce
- Pair the egg rolls with traditional Vietnamese dipping sauce (nước chấm) for a burst of tangy and savory flavors.
Enjoy these delectable Vietnamese air fryer egg rolls as a modern twist to a cherished classic!
How to Set the Perfect Time and Temperature for Air Fryer Egg Rolls
The trick to perfectly air-fried egg rolls lies in mastering the time and temperature settings. A general guideline:
- Frozen egg rolls: 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes
- Homemade egg rolls (non-frozen): 380°F (193°C) for 10–12 minutes
- Vegetable rolls with delicate wrappers: 370°F (188°C) for 8–10 minutes
Remember to preheat your air fryer and to brush or spray the rolls with a light amount of oil for maximum crispiness.
How Long to Cook Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer? A Comprehensive Answer
The exact cooking time for egg rolls in an air fryer depends on several factors, such as whether they are frozen, freshly made, or contain delicate fillings. Here’s a breakdown to ensure your egg rolls turn out perfectly crispy and delicious:
- Frozen Egg Rolls: These typically require 10–12 minutes of cooking at 375°F (190°C). Make sure to flip them halfway through to ensure even browning on all sides.
- Homemade Egg Rolls: If you’re starting with freshly wrapped egg rolls that haven’t been frozen, aim for 10–12 minutes at 380°F (193°C). This higher temperature helps seal in the flavors while achieving a crisp, golden exterior.
- Vegetable Rolls with Delicate Wrappers: For rolls with thin wrappers or lighter fillings like vegetables, cook them at a slightly lower temperature of 370°F (188°C) for 8–10 minutes. This prevents the wrappers from overbrowning before the inside heats through.
It’s important to check on the egg rolls as they cook, especially if you’re experimenting with different brands of wrappers or fillings. Always consult the instruction manual of your air fryer for best practices, and don’t forget to add a light oil coat before cooking to enhance that perfect crunch!
Tips for Cooking Non-Frozen Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer
- Avoid overcrowding the fryer basket. Leave space for air to circulate.
- Lightly spray the rolls with oil before cooking.
- Flip the rolls halfway through for even browning.
- Use parchment paper if you notice your egg rolls sticking.
Making Healthy Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer
Ingredients for Healthy Egg Rolls
- 1 package of egg roll wrappers (preferably whole wheat for added fiber)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken, tofu, or shrimp
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos for a low-sodium option
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water (for sealing the wrappers)
Tips for Making Healthy Egg Rolls
- Choose fresh and nutrient-dense fillings like vegetables and lean proteins.
- Use minimal oil when preparing the filling to keep it light.
- Seal the egg rolls tightly to prevent the filling from leaking while cooking.
- Avoid deep-frying; opt for the air fryer to achieve a crispy texture with less oil.
- Experiment with seasonings like chili flakes or lemon juice for added flavor without extra calories.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Air Frying Egg Rolls
- Overstuffing Wrappers: This can cause them to burst open during cooking.
- Skipping Oil Sprays: A little oil ensures a crispy exterior. No oil often leads to dry rolls.
- Using Wet Wrappers: Pat them dry to prevent sogginess.
- Not Flipping Midway Through Cooking: This leads to uneven browning.
Serving Ideas for Your Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are versatile and can be served in various ways:
- Paired with dipping sauces like hoisin, peanut sauce, or soy-vinegar blends.
- On top of a bed of greens for an Asian-inspired salad.
- With a side of fried rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Egg Rolls for Maximum Freshness
To store:
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- For longer storage, freeze for up to 1 month.
To reheat:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook refrigerated rolls for 3–5 minutes or frozen rolls for 8–10 minutes, until heated through.
Comparing Air Fryer Egg Rolls with Deep-Fried Versions
| Feature | Air Fryer Egg Rolls | Deep-Fried Egg Rolls |
|---|---|---|
| Oil Usage | Minimal oil or oil spray for crispiness | Submerged in a significant amount of hot oil |
| Calories | Lower in calories due to less oil | Higher in calories because of oil absorption |
| Texture | Crispy, but slightly lighter | Crispy with a thicker, greasier feel |
| Flavor | Light and fresh, highlighting ingredients | Rich and indulgent due to the oil |
| Convenience | Quick and requires less cleanup | Time-consuming with messy oil cleanup |
| Health Impact | Healthier due to lower fat content | Higher fat and calorie content |
Air fryer egg rolls strike a balance between health and taste, while deep-fried versions provide a richer, more indulgent flavor. Choosing the method depends on dietary goals and personal preferences.
Conclusion
Air fryer egg rolls offer a modern and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried varieties, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between flavor and nutrition. By using minimal oil and preserving the natural taste of the ingredients, they align with health-conscious lifestyles without compromising on taste. However, for those who prefer a more indulgent and rich experience, deep-fried egg rolls remain a classic option. Ultimately, the choice of cooking method depends on individual taste preferences and dietary goals, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
FAQs
1. Can I use the same recipe for both air-fried and deep-fried egg rolls?
Yes, the same recipe can be used for both methods. However, for air frying, it’s recommended to lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with oil to achieve a crispy texture.
2. How long do I cook egg rolls in an air fryer?
Typically, egg rolls take about 10-12 minutes to cook in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C), but the time may vary depending on the size and your specific air fryer model.
3. Are air-fried egg rolls as crispy as deep-fried ones?
Air-fried egg rolls are crispy, but they may not reach the same level of crunchiness as deep-fried ones. However, they are a healthier alternative with less oil.
4. Can I freeze homemade egg rolls before cooking them?
Absolutely! Egg rolls can be prepared and frozen before cooking. They can then be cooked directly from frozen in an air fryer or deep fryer, although the cooking time may need to be adjusted.
5. What are some tips for making the perfect egg roll filling?
Ensure the filling is well-seasoned and fully cooked before assembling the egg rolls to avoid excess moisture, which can make the wraps soggy. Straining any liquid from the filling will also help achieve a crispier texture.
