When the craving for something crispy and delicious hits, I often find myself reaching for my air fryer instead of the takeout menu. There’s something exhilarating about waiting for that perfect crunch to come from the kitchen, especially when it results in these mouthwatering Air Fryer Egg Rolls. Packed with a vibrant mix of cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms, these veggie-filled delights offer a burst of flavor that rivals any restaurant dish—but without the guilt.
As I embark on this culinary adventure, the simple yet addictive blend of Chinese 5 Spice Powder fills the air with comforting aromas, transporting me to a bustling Asian market. With just a few easy steps, I create a satisfying appetizer that leaves my friends and family clamoring for more. If you’re looking to elevate your snacking game, let’s dive into how to make these easy, low-calorie egg rolls that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Why are Air Fryer Egg Rolls a Must-Try?
Simplicity: The Air Fryer Egg Rolls require minimal effort, making them perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is filled with a delightful mix of crunchy veggies and aromatic spices that pack a punch.
Healthy Indulgence: Say goodbye to greasy takeout; these egg rolls are lightened up, offering all the satisfaction without the guilt.
Versatile: Customize them by swapping in your favorite vegetables or adding a kick of spice to suit your taste.
Quick Cooking: Done in under 15 minutes, these egg rolls are a perfect last-minute appetizer for unexpected guests.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s game day or a cozy gathering, everyone will love these crunchy delights that pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces.
Air Fryer Egg Rolls Ingredients
For the Egg Rolls
• Egg Roll Wrappers – These form the crispy outer shell; substitute with spring roll wrappers for a lighter bite.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing the filling; consider olive oil or cooking spray for a healthier option.
• Coleslaw Mix – Offers convenience with pre-shredded cabbage and carrots; can replace with fresh shredded cabbage.
• Celery, diced – Adds a nice crunch and moisture to your filling.
• Green Onions, sliced – Provides a mild onion flavor; can switch to regular onions if you prefer.
• Mushrooms, cut into thin strips – Bring an earthy depth to the rolls; feel free to substitute with bell peppers or zucchini.
• Garlic, minced – Essential for flavor enhancement.
• Ginger, minced – Infuses warmth and depth; ground ginger can work if you’re fresh out.
For the Sauce
• Chinese 5 Spice Powder – Adds that authentic Asian flavor that makes these air fryer egg rolls special; create your own blend if desired.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; opt for coconut aminos for a gluten-free choice.
• Honey – Gives a subtle sweetness that balances flavors; swap for maple syrup for a vegan version.
• Oyster Sauce – Provides a rich, savory note; vegetarian oyster sauce can be used for a gluten-free alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses nuttiness and depth; lightly toast for an even more robust flavor.
For Sealing
• Water – Essential for sealing the egg roll edges to ensure they don’t pop open while cooking.
With these Air Fryer Egg Rolls ingredients, you’re all set to embark on a delicious cooking adventure!
How to Make Air Fryer Egg Rolls
-
Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Chinese 5 Spice Powder, low sodium soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside once blended.
-
Sauté the filling: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add coleslaw mix and diced celery; sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in mushrooms, green onions, garlic, and ginger, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender and aromatic. Mix in the prepared sauce.
-
Assemble the egg rolls: Moisten the edges of an egg roll wrapper with water. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the flavorful filling in the center, fold the sides up, and roll tightly, sealing with water to secure the edges.
-
Air fry the rolls: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the rolled egg rolls with cooking spray, then cook for 6 minutes. Afterward, flip them over, spray again, and cook for another 6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
-
Serving: Serve the egg rolls warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces like sweet Thai chili or hot mustard for a delightful crunch.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for an extra touch of elegance!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Room Temperature: Keep cooked air fryer egg rolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to maintain quality and flavor.
Fridge: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days but are best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal crunchiness.
Freezer: To freeze, place uncooked, assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat cooked egg rolls in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, until heated through and crispy again.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Egg Rolls?
There’s nothing quite like a delightful blend of textures and flavors to complement your crispy creations.
- Sweet Thai Chili Sauce: Perfect for dipping, this sauce balances the savory egg rolls with a hint of sweetness for a delightful contrast.
- Coconut Fried Rice: Fluffy rice infused with coconut complements the egg rolls’ crunch while adding a creamy, tropical flair.
- Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and tang, enhancing the herbal notes in the egg rolls’ filling.
- Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Juicy teriyaki chicken is a hearty pairing, balancing the lightness of the egg rolls with a savory kick.
- Sesame Noodles: These cold noodles tossed in a sesame dressing bring a nutty flavor that beautifully contrasts with the crispy egg rolls.
- Wonton Soup: A warm and comforting soup, featuring delicate wontons, makes a cozy side that pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of the egg rolls.
- Green Tea: A light, refreshing beverage that cuts through the richness of the dipping sauces and the savory delights of the egg rolls.
- Mango Sticky Rice: This dessert offers a sweet, creamy finish to your meal, making for a delightful ending after the savory egg rolls.
- Edamame: Lightly salted edamame beans provide a healthy, protein-packed snack that is perfect alongside your flavorful egg rolls.
- Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side of pickled vegetables enhances your meal, cutting through richness and providing a refreshing crunch with every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Egg Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the egg rolls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them in an airtight container, ensuring they remain fresh and delicious. To maintain quality, lightly spray them with cooking spray before storing to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply preheat the air fryer and cook the egg rolls directly from the fridge for about 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through. This way, you’ll have a crunchy, satisfying appetizer ready in no time, making it easier to stick to your healthy eating plan on busy weeknights!
Air Fryer Egg Rolls Variations
Feel free to put your unique spin on these crispy delights and make them your own!
- Spicy Kick: Add minced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the filling for a fiery flavor boost. The heat elevates the taste and adds an exciting twist!
- Tofu Addition: Crumbled tofu can be mixed into the veggie filling for a protein-packed version that compliments the textures beautifully.
- Sweet Bell Peppers: Substitute mushrooms with colorful bell peppers for a sweeter, crunchier bite full of vitamins and vibrancy.
- Cabbage Slaw: Replace coleslaw mix with a fresh cabbage slaw for a crisper texture and zesty flavor. Add a splash of lemon for zing!
- Sesame Sprinkle: Prior to serving, sprinkle the rolls with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and a delightful crunch.
- Asian Fusion: Incorporate kimchi into the filling for a tangy twist that brings a new layer of flavor to every bite.
- Herbal Twist: Fresh cilantro or basil mixed into the filling offers a refreshing herbal note that brightens up the overall taste.
- Nutty Flavor: Blend in crushed peanuts for an extra layer of crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the egg rolls.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Egg Rolls
• Seal Well: Ensure the edges of the egg rolls are sealed tightly with water. This prevents them from opening during cooking and losing their delicious filling.
• Spray Generously: For a golden, crisp texture, don’t be shy with the cooking spray. Generously coat the egg rolls before air frying for the best results.
• Avoid Overcrowding: For even cooking, place the egg rolls in a single layer without overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add cooked proteins. Customizing your Air Fryer Egg Rolls can make them uniquely yours!
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary between air fryer models. Keep an eye on the egg rolls to ensure they reach a perfect golden brown without burning.
Air Fryer Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right egg roll wrappers?
Absolutely! When selecting egg roll wrappers, look for those that are fresh and pliable, with no tears or dark spots. Typically, they should be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. If you prefer a lighter option, spring roll wrappers are a fantastic substitute, offering a thinner and equally crispy bite.
What’s the best way to store leftover air fryer egg rolls?
Very! To keep your air fryer egg rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, to maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to enjoy them within the first 1-2 days. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat them in the air fryer to bring back that crunchy exterior.
Can I freeze uncooked egg rolls? How do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked egg rolls, first, assemble them as directed. Lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and pop them in the freezer until they’re solid (usually about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, air fry directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What if my egg rolls open while cooking?
Oh no! If your egg rolls open up during cooking, don’t worry. It usually means they weren’t sealed tightly enough. To avoid this, be sure to moisten the edges with water before rolling them up and press firmly to seal. If some do open up, they will still taste delicious, just not as visually appealing!
Are air fryer egg rolls suitable for vegetarians and vegans?
Definitely! These air fryer egg rolls are vegetarian-friendly right out of the gate. For vegan variations, simply swap the honey for maple syrup and use vegetarian oyster sauce or soy sauce instead of traditional oyster sauce. They’re a guilt-free treat for everyone!
How long can I keep cooked air fryer egg rolls in the fridge?
Very! Cooked air fryer egg rolls can be kept in the fridge for about 3 days when stored in an airtight container. However, for the best flavor and crunch, I recommend enjoying them within 1-2 days. Reheating them in the air fryer helps restore their delightful crispiness!
Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls That Crush Fast Food Cravings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together Chinese 5 Spice Powder, low sodium soy sauce, honey, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside once blended.
- Sauté the filling: Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add coleslaw mix and diced celery; sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in mushrooms, green onions, garlic, and ginger, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until veggies are tender and aromatic. Mix in the prepared sauce.
- Assemble the egg rolls: Moisten the edges of an egg roll wrapper with water. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the flavorful filling in the center, fold the sides up, and roll tightly, sealing with water.
- Air fry the rolls: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the rolled egg rolls with cooking spray, then cook for 6 minutes. Flip them over, spray again, and cook for another 6 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve the egg rolls warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces like sweet Thai chili or hot mustard.