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“Egg rolls” are a popular appetizer or snack in various cuisines, particularly in Chinese-American cooking. They are deep-fried, savory rolls, typically about four to six inches in length and cylindrical in shape. The exterior is a key feature: a thin wheat dough wrapper, often referred to simply as an egg roll wrapper, becomes notably crisp and golden brown when fried. The texture contrasts delightfully with the moist, flavorful filling inside.
The filling of the best egg rolls is a mixture of finely chopped ingredients, each contributing to a complex flavor profile and varied texture. Common components include ground pork or chicken, shredded cabbage, grated carrots, and sometimes bean sprouts or other vegetables. These ingredients are usually seasoned with a combination of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and occasionally sesame oil, offering a savory and slightly umami taste.
Preparing egg rolls involves a series of steps. The filling is cooked first, typically stir-fried in a wok or large frying pan. This process not only cooks the meat but also wilts the vegetables, allowing them to blend more harmoniously. Once the filling is cooled, it’s spooned onto the egg roll wrappers. The wrappers are then folded and rolled in a specific way to encase the filling completely, often sealed with a bit of water or egg wash to prevent them from unraveling during frying.
The frying process is crucial. The rolls are usually deep-fried in a neutral oil, like vegetable or peanut oil, heated to a high temperature. This method ensures a rapid cooking that leaves the exterior crisp and the interior hot and tender without absorbing excessive oil.
Egg rolls are typically served hot, often accompanied by dipping sauces such as sweet and sour sauce, duck sauce, or a soy-based dipping sauce. They are known for their delightful crunch, the savory and slightly sweet filling, and their ability to be a satisfying, handheld snack. The best egg rolls have a balance of flavors and textures: the crispy shell yields to a rich, savory, and aromatic filling that’s both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients
1 pound ground pork or beef
1 teaspoon ground ginger, or more to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder, or more to taste
2 glasses destroyed cabbage
2 ounces destroyed carrots
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons water
1 quart shelled nut oil for broiling, or as needed
8 (7 inch square) egg roll wrappers
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (Optional)
Instructions:
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