There’s no denying that air fryers have gained immense popularity in recent years. These countertop appliances allow you to enjoy crispy and delicious fried foods with fewer calories and less oil. But what about frozen egg rolls? Can you cook them in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes! Not only can you cook frozen egg rolls in an air fryer, but it’s also a quick and easy way to enjoy this tasty treat right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
How does an air fryer work?
Before we delve into the specifics of cooking frozen egg rolls in an air fryer, let’s first understand how these innovative appliances work. Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, similar to a convection oven. However, they are much smaller and more compact, making them ideal for quick and convenient cooking.
Inside an air fryer, there is a heating element and a powerful fan that circulates hot air around the food. This hot air rapidly cooks the food, creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist and juicy interior. The result is a much healthier version of your favorite fried foods, with a fraction of the oil traditionally used in deep frying.
Preparation and cooking instructions
Now that we know the basics of how an air fryer works, let’s get to the exciting part – cooking frozen egg rolls! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly cooked egg rolls every time:
Step 1: Preheating the air fryer
To ensure even cooking and a crispy texture, it’s crucial to preheat your air fryer. Simply set the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3-5 minutes. This step is similar to preheating an oven before baking.
Step 2: Preparing the egg rolls
While the air fryer is preheating, take your frozen egg rolls out of the packaging and place them on a clean plate. It’s essential to space them out to ensure proper air circulation and prevent them from sticking together.
Step 3: Cooking the egg rolls
Once your air fryer is preheated, place the frozen egg rolls in the cooking basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Cook the egg rolls for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Checking for doneness
After the recommended cooking time, carefully remove one of the egg rolls from the basket and check if it’s cooked to your liking. The exterior should be golden brown and crispy, while the interior should be piping hot. If needed, you can cook them for an additional 1-2 minutes for a crispier texture.
Step 5: Serving and enjoying
Once your egg rolls are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy them! You can serve them as a standalone appetizer or as part of a complete meal. Pair them with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce, to elevate the flavors. And there you have it – delicious, crispy egg rolls ready to be devoured!
Tips and tricks for the best results
While cooking frozen egg rolls in an air fryer is relatively straightforward, there are a few tips and tricks to ensure the best possible outcome. Here are some additional pointers to enhance your culinary experience:
1. Preheating is crucial:
Always remember to preheat your air fryer before cooking the egg rolls. Preheating ensures that the hot air immediately starts cooking the food, resulting in a crispier texture.
2. Do not use oil:
When cooking frozen egg rolls in an air fryer, there’s no need to add any oil. The hot circulating air will provide enough crispiness without the extra calories from oil.
3. Flip halfway through:
To achieve even browning and ensure that all sides of the egg rolls are evenly cooked, flip them halfway through the cooking time. This step helps prevent any pale or undercooked spots.
4. Don’t overcook:
While it’s essential to ensure that your egg rolls are fully cooked, be cautious not to overcook them. Overcooking can lead to a dry interior and burnt exterior, ultimately affecting the taste and texture.
5. Experiment with cooking time and temperature:
Each air fryer model may vary slightly, so don’t hesitate to experiment with the cooking time and temperature to achieve your desired level of crispiness. However, keep in mind that the recommended time and temperature mentioned earlier are a good starting point.
Air fryer benefits
Cooking frozen egg rolls in an air fryer not only provides a convenient and quick way to enjoy this delectable appetizer, but it also offers several other benefits:
Healthier option:
Air frying promotes healthier eating habits by significantly reducing the amount of oil used in cooking. With an air fryer, you can enjoy the crispy satisfaction of fried foods without the guilt of excessive fat and calories.
Time-saving:
Air fryers are known for their speed and efficiency. They can cook frozen egg rolls in a fraction of the time it takes to preheat an oven or deep fryer. This time-saving aspect is perfect for individuals with busy schedules or those who want a quick meal or snack.
Easy cleanup:
Cleaning up after cooking can be a hassle, but air fryers make it a breeze. Most air fryer baskets and trays are non-stick and dishwasher safe, making the cleaning process quick and effortless.
Versatility:
Air fryers are incredibly versatile appliances that can do much more than just cook frozen egg rolls. You can use them to prepare a wide range of foods, including French fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and even desserts like churros or apple fritters.
The verdict
If you’re a fan of egg rolls and crave a quick and easy cooking method, then cooking frozen egg rolls in an air fryer is the way to go. Not only does it save time, but it also produces deliciously crispy egg rolls with a fraction of the oil used in traditional deep frying. So, get your air fryer ready, and indulge in mouthwatering egg rolls without the guilt!