Air Fryer Egg Rolls Crispy Homemade and Frozen

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Craving the crispy, savory goodness of egg rolls but want a healthier, easier alternative to deep-frying or constant takeout orders? Look no further! Our guide to making Air Fryer Egg Rolls will revolutionize your snack game. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef ready to craft them from scratch or simply want to elevate store-bought frozen egg rolls, the air fryer is your secret weapon for achieving that irresistible golden crunch with significantly less oil. Get ready to satisfy your Chinese takeout cravings from the comfort of your kitchen, enjoying all the flavor without the guilt!

The air fryer has transformed how we enjoy our favorite fried foods, making them more accessible and healthier. Here at Homemade Interest, we’re big fans of recreating beloved takeout dishes at home, from flavorful stir-fry vegetables to hearty pepper steak stir-fry. And when it comes to appetizers, crispy egg rolls are a must-have. Our homemade air-fryer egg rolls boast a taste strikingly similar to those from your favorite restaurant, but with a wonderfully lighter feel since they aren’t submerged in oil. Plus, for those busy evenings, we’ve got you covered with simple instructions for making frozen egg rolls perfectly crispy in the air fryer too!

Table of Contents

• Ingredients for Homemade Egg Rolls
• Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls
• Air Frying Frozen Egg Rolls: The Easy Way
• Mastering the Egg Roll Wrap
• The Perfect Dipping Sauces for Egg Rolls
• Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Egg Rolls
• Explore More Air Fryer Recipes

Ingredients for Homemade Egg Rolls

Crafting delicious, restaurant-quality egg rolls at home starts with selecting the right ingredients. For our irresistible Air Fryer Egg Rolls, you’ll need a blend of fresh produce, flavorful seasonings, and essential oils to achieve that perfect taste and texture. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Oils: A trio of oils works wonders for this recipe. You’ll need vegetable oil for cooking the filling, a touch of toasted sesame oil for its distinct nutty aroma and flavor, and peanut oil for brushing on the wrappers before air frying. While peanut oil gives an exceptional crisp, you can substitute vegetable or canola oil if needed. However, the toasted sesame oil is crucial for that authentic Asian flavor profile.
• Cabbage: The backbone of any good egg roll filling is cabbage. Opt for very thinly sliced green cabbage. For convenience, a pre-packaged bag of coleslaw mix (without dressing) works perfectly, saving you time on chopping. If using a mix, you might not need to add extra carrots.
• Shredded Carrots: These add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the filling. You can buy them pre-shredded or grate fresh carrots using a box grater.
• Green Onions: Also known as scallions, these contribute a mild oniony flavor and a fresh, aromatic garnish. Finely dice them for the best distribution throughout the filling.
• Soy Sauce: Essential for umami and seasoning. You can use either regular or lower-sodium versions, depending on your preference and dietary needs.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar balances the savory and salty components of the filling, adding a hint of sweetness that rounds out the flavors.
• Five-Spice Powder: This aromatic Chinese spice blend is a game-changer, often comprising ground cinnamon, fennel seeds, star anise, Sichuan peppercorn, and cloves. It imparts a complex, warm flavor. You should find it in the spice aisle of most grocery stores or Asian markets.
• Cooked Shrimp: We love using tiny shrimp, reminiscent of those found in traditional Chinese restaurants. These are often available canned near tuna fish. Alternatively, you can use steamed, baked, or pre-cooked larger shrimp, simply chopping them into small pieces. For dietary preferences or variety, feel free to substitute with finely diced cooked chicken, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: The vessel for all this deliciousness! These square wrappers are typically found in the refrigerated section of the grocery store, often near produce or in the Asian food aisle. If you can’t locate them locally, they can sometimes be ordered online.
• Egg: A single large, beaten egg is used to seal the egg roll wrappers, ensuring they stay perfectly intact during cooking.

For achieving the best crisp and even cooking, we highly recommend using a quality air fryer. We use and love our Cosori Air Fryer for making these and many other delicious air-fried dishes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls

Making homemade egg rolls in an air fryer is a rewarding process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps to create perfectly crispy, flavorful egg rolls from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Flavorful Filling

The heart of a great egg roll lies in its filling. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the thinly sliced green cabbage and shredded carrots. Stir frequently, allowing them to soften. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes, as you want the vegetables to be tender but still have a slight bite.

Once the cabbage and carrots reach the desired tenderness, remove the skillet from the heat. Now, incorporate the remaining filling ingredients: the finely diced green onions, soy sauce, sugar, toasted sesame oil, a pinch of five-spice powder, and the cooked shrimp (or your chosen protein). Stir everything together thoroughly until all components are well combined and the flavors are evenly distributed. Allow the filling to cool slightly before proceeding to the next step, as it will be easier and safer to handle.

Step 2: Expertly Roll Your Egg Rolls

Rolling egg rolls might seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, you’ll become a pro! While the filling cools, take a moment to review our detailed “How to Roll an Egg Roll” section below for visual guidance and specific tips. Once your filling is cool enough to handle, begin the wrapping process. Each egg roll should be tightly packed to ensure no filling escapes during cooking. As you complete each roll, set it aside. Once all your egg rolls are wrapped, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures the air fryer is hot and ready to cook, giving your egg rolls an immediate crisp.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

With your egg rolls rolled and the air fryer preheated, it’s time for the final cooking stage. Lightly brush each egg roll with a very thin layer of peanut oil. An oil sprayer works wonderfully here to achieve an even, fine mist without over-oiling. Remember, a light coating is all you need for that golden, crispy exterior. Carefully arrange the oiled egg rolls in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there’s a bit of space between each one for optimal air circulation. Do not overcrowd the basket; if necessary, cook in batches.

Cook the egg rolls at 390°F (199°C) for 5 minutes. Then, gently open the air fryer, flip each egg roll over, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. This ensures even browning and crispiness on all sides. Once they are golden brown and crispy, serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces for the ultimate homemade takeout experience!

Air Frying Frozen Egg Rolls: The Easy Way

Let’s be honest, sometimes you just need a quick, delicious snack without the fuss of preparing everything from scratch. That’s where frozen egg rolls come in, and your air fryer is their best friend! The air fryer magically transforms frozen egg rolls into a crispy, flavorful delight that tastes surprisingly fresh, making it an indispensable kitchen gadget if you don’t already own one.

Forget soggy microwave egg rolls or greasy deep-fried versions. With an air fryer, you can achieve that sought-after crispy exterior and perfectly heated interior in minutes. It’s the ultimate hack for satisfying those sudden takeout cravings with minimal effort. Here’s how to use your air fryer to make frozen egg rolls deliciously crispy every time:

1. Preheat for Perfection: Just like with homemade egg rolls, preheating is crucial. Set your air fryer to 390°F (199°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes. This initial burst of heat is key to achieving a consistently crispy crust.
2. Arrange in a Single Layer: Carefully place the frozen egg rolls in a single layer within the air fryer basket. It’s vital to leave a little room between each egg roll to allow hot air to circulate freely. Proper air circulation is what gives them that signature crispness. If you’re cooking a larger batch, you’ll need to work in shifts. To keep cooked batches warm and crispy while the others cook, place them on a wire rack on a baking sheet in a warm oven (around 200°F/93°C).
3. Cook and Flip: Cook the egg rolls for 5 minutes. After the first 5 minutes, open the air fryer and use tongs to carefully turn each egg roll over. This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes.
4. Rest and Serve: Once the cooking timer goes off, don’t immediately remove the egg rolls. Let them rest in the air fryer basket for an additional 3-5 minutes with the air fryer off. This allows the residual heat to thoroughly warm them through and enhances their crispiness. Serve your perfectly crispy frozen egg rolls piping hot with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a hassle-free, delightful snack!

This method is a game-changer for quick appetizers, game-day snacks, or a simple side dish to your homemade Asian meals. Enjoy the convenience and crunch!

Mastering the Egg Roll Wrap

The art of rolling an egg roll is simpler than it appears, and even if your first few aren’t picture-perfect, they’ll still taste amazing! Practice makes perfect, and with each egg roll you prepare, your technique will improve. Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to wrapping your homemade egg rolls:

1. Position the Wrapper: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface. Position it so that one of the corners is pointing directly towards you, forming a diamond shape. This orientation makes the rolling process intuitive and ensures a compact roll.
2. Add the Filling: Spoon approximately 3 ounces (about ¼ cup) of your cooled cabbage filling onto the wrapper. Place the filling just below the centerline of the diamond, closer to the corner that’s pointing towards you. Avoid overfilling, as this can make the egg rolls difficult to seal and prone to bursting during cooking.
3. Fold the Bottom Corner: Take the bottom corner of the wrapper (the one closest to you) and lift it up and over the filling. Tuck it snugly underneath the filling, pressing gently with your fingers on both sides to compact the filling and ensure it’s tightly sealed within this initial fold. This creates the base of your egg roll.
4. Fold in the Sides: Now, take the left and right side corners of the wrapper and fold them inwards towards the center. This action should create an envelope-like shape, further securing the filling. Make sure these folds are also snug against the filling.
5. Seal with Egg Wash: Dip a pastry brush into your beaten egg. Lightly brush the exposed top corner of the wrapper (the farthest corner from you) with the egg wash. This egg wash acts as an edible glue, helping the wrapper stick to itself and keeping the filling securely inside as you complete the roll.
6. Roll It Up: Starting from the bottom (where you made your first fold), tightly roll the egg roll upwards towards the egg-washed top corner. Roll it firmly but gently, maintaining a consistent pressure to ensure a compact and even cylinder. The egg-washed corner will adhere to the roll, sealing everything together.
7. Repeat and Cook: Continue these steps until you have used up all your delicious filling. Once all your egg rolls are perfectly wrapped, they are ready for the air fryer! Refer back to our “Step-by-Step Guide to Homemade Air Fryer Egg Rolls” section for cooking instructions.

Remember, the goal is a tight, secure roll that prevents any filling from escaping. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfectly uniform; homemade always has character! Enjoy the process and the delicious results.

The Perfect Dipping Sauces for Egg Rolls

No egg roll experience is complete without the perfect dipping sauce! While our Air Fryer Egg Rolls are incredibly flavorful on their own, pairing them with the right sauce elevates every bite. From sweet and tangy to spicy and savory, there’s a sauce for every palate. Here are some classic and popular options to complement your crispy creations:

• Classic Sweet and Sour Sauce: This iconic, vibrant red sauce is a staple for a reason. Its delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess provides a wonderful contrast to the savory filling of the egg roll, making each bite an explosion of flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
• Spicy Mustard Sauce: For those who love a kick, spicy mustard sauce is an excellent choice. Its sharp, pungent flavor, coupled with a pleasant heat, cuts through the richness of the egg roll, offering an invigorating taste sensation that awakens the palate.
• Hoisin Sauce: This thick, dark, and glossy sauce is a complex blend of sweet, salty, and umami notes. It’s often described as Chinese barbecue sauce. Its rich texture clings beautifully to the egg roll, enveloping it in a layer of savory sweetness that’s incredibly satisfying.
• Soy Ginger Sauce: A lighter and more refreshing option, soy ginger sauce features the zesty warmth of grated ginger combined with the savory depth of soy. It offers a subtle spicy kick that beautifully complements the crispy exterior and tender interior of the egg roll without overpowering its delicate flavors.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: This versatile sauce provides a harmonious blend of sweetness and a gentle, building heat. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a touch of spice but prefer it not to be overwhelming, adding a vibrant and juicy flavor dimension to your egg rolls.
• Peanut Sauce: For a unique and creamy twist, peanut sauce offers a rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavor profile. Its luxurious texture makes for an indulgent dip that adds a satisfying depth to your crispy egg rolls.

Feel free to experiment with one or several of these sauces to find your perfect pairing. Each offers a distinct experience, transforming your egg roll enjoyment!

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Egg Rolls

New to air frying egg rolls or looking to perfect your technique? Here are some of the most common questions and helpful tips to ensure your egg rolls come out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.

Do I Need to Preheat My Air Fryer?

Absolutely! Preheating your air fryer is a non-negotiable step for achieving truly crispy egg rolls. Just like a conventional oven, an air fryer needs to reach its target temperature before food is introduced. Preheating for about 3-5 minutes at 390°F (199°C) ensures that your egg rolls start cooking immediately at the optimal temperature, sealing in moisture and creating that irresistible golden-brown crust. It’s the secret to avoiding soggy egg rolls and guaranteeing a consistently crisp texture.

How Do I Prevent Egg Rolls from Sticking to the Air Fryer Basket?

Nobody wants their delicious egg rolls to lose their crispy skin by sticking to the basket. To prevent this, lightly brush your egg rolls with a thin layer of oil (like peanut, vegetable, or canola oil) before placing them in the air fryer. An oil sprayer works wonderfully for an even, light coating. Additionally, ensure your air fryer basket is clean and, if possible, non-stick. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can also lead to sticking and uneven cooking.

What Temperature and Time Are Best for Air Frying Egg Rolls?

The sweet spot for air frying most egg rolls, both homemade and frozen, is typically 390°F (199°C). For cooking time, homemade egg rolls usually require about 10-12 minutes total, while frozen ones might need an extra few minutes, often around 10-15 minutes. The key to even cooking is to flip the egg rolls halfway through the cooking process. This ensures both sides get direct exposure to the circulating hot air, resulting in a uniformly golden and crispy exterior. Always check for doneness, as air fryer models can vary.

Can I Cook Frozen Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer Without Thawing?

Yes, absolutely! One of the greatest conveniences of the air fryer is its ability to cook frozen foods directly, and egg rolls are no exception. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply add the frozen egg rolls to the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they are in a single layer. As mentioned above, you may need to add an extra 3-5 minutes to the total cooking time compared to fresh or homemade egg rolls. Start checking at the 10-minute mark and continue cooking until they are golden brown and heated through.

How Do I Keep My Egg Rolls Crispy After Cooking?

To maintain that delightful crispiness, avoid stacking your freshly cooked egg rolls on a plate directly. The steam can cause them to become soggy. Instead, transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet. This allows air to circulate around all sides, keeping them crisp. If you’re cooking multiple batches, you can keep the cooked egg rolls warm in a low-temperature oven (around 200°F/93°C) on the wire rack while you finish the rest.

Can I Reheat Leftover Egg Rolls in the Air Fryer?

The air fryer is fantastic for reheating leftovers, especially fried foods! To reheat cold egg rolls, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again. This method brings them back to life much better than a microwave ever could!

Explore More Air Fryer Recipes

The air fryer is a versatile kitchen appliance that can do so much more than just make amazing egg rolls! If you’ve loved the ease and delicious results of air frying, we encourage you to explore other fantastic recipes you can make. From main courses to sides and even desserts, your air fryer is capable of creating a wide array of culinary delights with less oil and more convenience. Here are some of our other favorite air fryer recipes:

• Air Fryer Salmon
• Air Fryer Steak
• Air Fryer Nachos
• Air Fryer Meatballs
• Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
• Air Fryer Baked Potato
• Air Fryer Fried Chicken
• Air Fryer Zucchini
• More Air Fryer Recipes…

Expand your culinary repertoire and make the most of your air fryer. You’ll be amazed at the variety of delicious, healthier meals you can prepare!

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