Can You Make Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer? Discover the Easiest and Healthier Way to Fry Egg Rolls!
Egg rolls are a delicious and popular appetizer in many Asian cuisines. They are usually made by rolling up a mixture of vegetables, meat, and seasonings in a thin wrapper and then deep-frying until crispy and golden. However, deep-frying can be a messy and unhealthy cooking method, as it requires a large amount of oil. But what if there was a way to make egg rolls that are just as crispy and flavorful, but without all the added oil? Enter the air fryer!
What is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a kitchen appliance that uses hot air circulation to cook food. It works by circulating hot air around the food, which creates a crispy outer layer without the need for a deep-fryer full of oil. Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to create crispy and delicious foods with significantly less fat and calories. They are versatile appliances that can cook a wide range of dishes, from french fries to chicken wings, and yes, even egg rolls!
The Benefits of Making Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer
Making egg rolls in an air fryer offers several benefits over traditional deep-frying. Firstly, using an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed to achieve a crispy texture. While deep-frying requires submerging the egg rolls in oil, air frying only requires a light coating of oil or cooking spray. This results in a healthier final product with fewer calories and less fat.
Secondly, air frying is a much cleaner and more convenient cooking method. Traditional deep-frying can create a mess in the kitchen – oil splatters, lingering odors, and greasy countertops. With an air fryer, there is no oil splattering or excessive cleanup required. Plus, air fryers have built-in filters that help eliminate cooking odors, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more pleasant cooking experience.
Another benefit of air frying egg rolls is the shorter cooking time. Deep-frying egg rolls can take quite a while, as you need to wait for the oil to heat up and then carefully fry them in batches. Air frying, on the other hand, provides a faster cooking process since the hot air circulates around the food evenly. This means that you can have your egg rolls ready to enjoy in a fraction of the time it would take to deep-fry them.
How to Make Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer
Now that you know the benefits of making egg rolls in an air fryer let’s dive into the step-by-step process!
Ingredients:
To make egg rolls in an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients:
– Egg roll wrappers
– Finely chopped vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, and mushrooms)
– Cooked and seasoned meat (such as ground pork or chicken)
– Soy sauce
– Sesame oil
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
– Cooking oil or cooking spray
Instructions:
1. Start by preparing the filling for your egg rolls. In a large bowl, combine the finely chopped vegetables, cooked and seasoned meat, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon about two tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, then fold the two side corners in towards the center. Roll up the wrapper tightly, making sure to seal the edges with a bit of water to prevent them from unraveling.
4. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the filling.
5. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
6. Lightly brush or spray the egg rolls with a small amount of cooking oil or cooking spray. This will help them become crispy and golden.
7. Place the egg rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other to ensure even cooking.
8. Cook the egg rolls in the air fryer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.
9. Once the egg rolls are golden and crisp, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
10. Serve the egg rolls with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour sauce or soy sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making egg rolls in an air fryer is a fantastic alternative to traditional deep-frying. It offers a healthier and easier cooking method while still delivering the same crispy and flavorful results. With an air fryer, you can enjoy delicious egg rolls without the guilt and hassle of using excessive amounts of oil. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!