| Prep Time ⇒ | 10 mins |
| Cook Time ⇒ | 15 mins |
| Addit Time ⇒ | 5 mins |
| Protein ⇒ | 26g |
| Fat ⇒ | 4g |
| Carbs ⇒ | 12g |
Authentic Chinese Egg Rolls
These authentic Chinese egg rolls come from my mom, who is an incredible cook—and I’m a notoriously picky eater. If I enjoy these, I’m sure you will too! With a recipe that has been passed down through my Chinese family for over 300 years, you can trust that these egg rolls are the real deal.
Ingredients :
- 4 teaspoons vegetable oil, divided
- 3 large eggs, beaten
- 1 medium head cabbage, finely shredded
- ½ carrot, julienned
- 1 pound Chinese barbequed or roasted pork, cut into matchsticks
- 1 (8-ounce) can shredded bamboo shoots
- 1 cup dried, shredded wood ear mushrooms, rehydrated
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 ½ teaspoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- 1 (14-ounce) package egg roll wrappers
- 1 egg white, beaten
- 4 cups oil for frying, or as needed
Directions :
Step 1: Heat 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and cook without stirring until firm. Flip the eggs and cook for an additional 20 seconds to firm the other side. Set the egg pancake aside to cool, then slice it into thin strips.
Step 2: In the same wok, heat the remaining vegetable oil over high heat. Stir in the cabbage and carrot, cooking for 2 minutes until wilted.
Step 3: Add the pork, bamboo shoots, wood ear mushrooms, green onions, soy sauce, salt, sugar, and MSG. Continue cooking until the vegetables are softened, about 6 minutes. Stir in the sliced egg, then spread the mixture out onto a pan and refrigerate until cold, about 1 hour.
Step 4: To assemble the egg rolls, place a wrapper on your work surface with one corner facing you. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the cooled filling onto the bottom third of the wrapper. Brush a little beaten egg white onto the top two edges of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling and roll firmly to the halfway point.
Step 5: Fold the left and right sides snugly over the egg roll, then continue rolling until the top corners are sealed with the egg white. Repeat with the remaining wrappers, covering the finished egg rolls with plastic wrap to prevent drying.
Step 6: Heat about 6 inches of oil in a wok or deep-fryer to 350°F (175°C).
Step 7: Fry the egg rolls in batches of 3 or 4 until golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Health Benefits of Authentic Chinese Egg Rolls Ingredients :
Authentic Chinese Egg Rolls are a beloved dish that combines crispy textures with flavorful fillings, making them a delightful addition to any meal. Beyond their delicious taste, the ingredients used in these egg rolls offer a range of health benefits. Let’s explore the key components and their nutritional advantages.
Egg Roll Wrappers: The foundation of egg rolls, these wrappers are typically made from refined flour, but opting for whole grain varieties can enhance their nutritional profile. Whole grain wrappers provide additional fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight by keeping you feeling fuller longer. Fiber also plays a crucial role in regulating blood sugar levels. To learn more about the ingredients used in egg rolls, visit this Wikipedia page.
Cabbage: One of the primary fillings in egg rolls, cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that offers numerous health benefits. It’s low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, both of which are important for immune function and bone health. Cabbage is also rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. The fiber content in cabbage supports healthy digestion and can contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels.
Carrots: Another common filling, carrots provide a sweet crunch to egg rolls and are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for good vision, immune health, and skin health. Carrots also contain fiber, which supports digestive health, and they are low in calories, making them a great addition to any dish.
Protein Options (Pork, Chicken, or Tofu): Depending on your preference, you might use pork, chicken, or tofu as the protein source in your egg rolls. Lean meats like chicken provide high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function, while pork adds rich flavor and nutrients such as B vitamins and iron. Tofu is a fantastic plant-based protein alternative, rich in amino acids, iron, and calcium, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans.
Mushrooms: Often included in the filling, mushrooms add a savory umami flavor and are low in calories while providing a good source of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals like selenium. They also contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system.
Green Onions: Green onions add a fresh flavor and crunch to the egg roll filling. They are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants. The presence of these nutrients contributes to overall health, and the flavor they bring enhances the overall taste of the egg rolls.
Garlic and Ginger: These aromatic ingredients not only enhance the flavor of the egg rolls but also offer significant health benefits. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties and has been associated with heart health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. Ginger is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion, making it a wonderful addition to many dishes.
Dipping Sauce: Many people enjoy egg rolls with a dipping sauce, often soy sauce or a sweet and sour sauce. While soy sauce adds flavor, be mindful of the sodium content. Consider low-sodium options to reduce salt intake. Sweet and sour sauces can vary in sugar content, so look for healthier versions or make your own to control the ingredients.
In summary, Authentic Chinese Egg Rolls are not only a delicious treat but also a dish rich in health benefits, thanks to their combination of vegetables, proteins, and flavorful spices. Each ingredient contributes to a well-rounded meal that supports overall health while satisfying your taste buds. For more delicious recipes and ideas, visit hearty-recipes.com and explore a variety of tasty options to enhance your culinary adventures!