Spring rolls are a beloved classic in Chinese cuisine. Light, crispy, and filled with a delicious mixture of vegetables, these Chinese spring rolls make a perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a homemade snack, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create the ultimate vegetarian spring rolls that are authentic and full of flavor.
Table of Contents
What Are Chinese Spring Rolls?
Chinese Spring Rolls are thin pastry wrappers filled with a mix of seasoned vegetables, sometimes combined with meat or seafood. However, the vegetarian version is a lighter, crispier treat that highlights the freshness of the filling. Traditionally served during the Spring Festival in China, they symbolize wealth and prosperity due to their golden color resembling gold bars.
They are usually deep-fried until perfectly golden and crunchy, then served with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or hoisin sauce for dipping.
👉 Related recipe: Spoon Fritters: a quick and tasty treat
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 100% vegetarian: perfect for everyone!
- Easy to prepare: simple ingredients and easy steps.
- Super crispy: just like at your favorite Chinese restaurant.
- Perfect for freezing: make a big batch and save for later.
Ingredients (in Table Form)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spring roll wrappers | 20 sheets |
| Cabbage (shredded) | 2 cups |
| Carrot (julienned) | 1 large |
| Shiitake mushrooms (sliced) | 1 cup |
| Bean sprouts | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| Cornstarch + water (slurry for sealing) | 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water |
How to Make Chinese Spring Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable Filling
Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, toss in the bean sprouts and cook for another minute.
Season with soy sauce. Mix everything well, then set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Assemble the Spring Rolls
Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape).
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cooled filling near the bottom corner.
- Roll up halfway, then fold in the sides.
- Continue rolling tightly, then seal the edge with a little cornstarch slurry.
Repeat until all filling and wrappers are used.
Step 3: Fry the Spring Rolls
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok over medium-high heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
Fry the spring rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy about 3–4 minutes.
Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, hoisin sauce, or simple soy sauce.
🥢 Related recipe: Battered Fried Chicken: crunchy and ready in no time!
Tips for the Best Vegetarian Chinese Spring Rolls
- Cool the filling completely before wrapping to avoid soggy rolls.
- Roll tightly to prevent them from bursting open while frying.
- Don’t overfill the rolls, or they may tear.
- Fry at the right temperature: Too low, and they’ll absorb oil; too high, and they’ll burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bake These Spring Rolls?
Yes! If you want a healthier version, brush the rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I Freeze Spring Rolls?
Absolutely. Freeze them before frying. When ready, fry them straight from frozen without thawing (just add 1–2 minutes to frying time).
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or bamboo shoots are great additions.
Final Thoughts
These homemade Chinese Spring Rolls are the perfect combination of crispy, savory, and satisfying. They’re simple enough for a weekday snack but impressive enough to serve at special gatherings.
Try them once, and they’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!
Looking for more crispy appetizers? Don’t miss our Crispy Baked Carrot Sticks with Parmesan and Rosemary.
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