These crispy air fryer spring rolls are a tasty treat! Filled with fresh veggies and maybe some meat, they’re golden on the outside and soft inside. Plus, they’re so easy to make!
I love how they cook up in just minutes without all the oil. Perfect for a snack or a fun party dish. Just watch out, they disappear fast—everyone wants to grab one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spring Roll Wrappers: These are essential for a good crunch. You can find them in Asian grocery stores or the international aisle. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, consider using rice paper wraps, but remember they might require a different rolling technique.
Shredded Cabbage: This adds crunch to your spring rolls. Green cabbage is common, but feel free to substitute with Napa cabbage or even coleslaw mix for added texture and flavor.
Carrots: Shredded carrots brighten the filling. You can swap these with zucchini or bell peppers if you’re looking for a different flavor or want to reduce sugars.
Chicken or Shrimp: This is optional, so feel free to omit it for a vegetarian version. Tofu is a great protein-rich alternative. If using chicken, rotisserie chicken can save you time!
Oyster Sauce: This adds a rich umami flavor. For a vegetarian or vegan substitute, consider mushroom sauce or just skip it and use extra soy sauce.
How Can I Ensure My Spring Rolls Are Crunchy and Golden?
To achieve perfectly crispy spring rolls, follow these helpful tips!
- Oil Spraying: Lightly spray or brush the outside of the rolls with oil before air frying. This helps to crisp them up nicely.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the wrappers. Too much filling makes it hard to seal and results in soggy rolls.
- Single Layer Cooking: Place the rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking.
- Temperature Check: Preheat your air fryer well. Starting at the right temperature gives that perfect crunch within minutes!
How to Make Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup cooked and finely chopped chicken or shrimp (optional)
- ½ cup thinly sliced green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for the filling)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 12 spring roll wrappers
- Non-stick cooking spray or oil spray
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: around 15 minutes for prep and cooking, plus a little time to let the spring rolls cool after cooking. It’s a quick and delicious way to enjoy crispy spring rolls at home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute until you can smell the lovely aroma. Then, toss in the shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions, along with the cooked chicken or shrimp if you’re using it. Stir-fry for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften up nicely.
2. Season the Mixture:
Next, it’s time to add flavor! Mix in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re including it), sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together well, and then remove the pan from the heat. Let the delicious filling cool down a bit while you prepare the spring rolls.
3. Roll the Spring Rolls:
Now, let’s roll! Take one spring roll wrapper and lay it down on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of your filling near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling, tuck in the two side corners, and then roll tightly towards the other corner, sealing the edge with a dab of water. Repeat this with the rest of the wrappers and filling.
4. Air Fry the Spring Rolls:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). After that, lightly spray the spring rolls with oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer—make sure they’re not overlapping! Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Yum!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, remove the spring rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Garnish with extra chopped green onions and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy your homemade spring rolls!
Can I Use Frozen Spring Roll Wrappers?
Yes, you can! Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using. Ensure they stay covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken or Shrimp?
If you want a vegetarian option, tofu is a great substitute! Simply cube it and sauté it with the vegetables for added protein, or you can skip the meat altogether and load up on more veggies.
How Do I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until crispy again.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just fill and roll the spring rolls right before cooking for the best texture and flavor.
