Lumpiang Shanghai is a delicious Filipino dish that is loved by many people around the world. Traditionally, it is deep-fried, making it crispy and flavorful. However, with the growing popularity of air fryers, there is now a healthier twist to cooking this dish. In this article, we will explore how to cook Lumpiang Shanghai in an air fryer, providing you with a simple and easy-to-follow recipe that will surely delight your taste buds.
Preparing the Ingredients
Before we delve into the cooking process, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. For Lumpiang Shanghai, you will need the following:
1. Ground pork: A key component of this dish, ground pork adds a rich and savory taste to the filling.
2. Onion and garlic: These ingredients provide a wonderful aroma and enhance the flavor of the dish.
3. Carrots: Grating or finely chopping carrots adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the filling.
4. Green onions: Adding a hint of freshness, green onions complement the other flavors and add a pop of color.
5. Soy sauce: This ingredient adds an umami taste and serves as a natural seasoning.
6. Salt and pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the overall flavor profile.
7. Lumpia wrappers: Available in most Asian grocery stores, these thin and square wrappers are perfect for making Lumpiang Shanghai.
8. Cooking oil: Although we will be using an air fryer, a small amount of oil is still required to achieve a crispy exterior.
Preparing the Filling
To prepare the filling for Lumpiang Shanghai, follow these easy steps:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, grated carrots, and finely chopped green onions.
2. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the mixture, and mix thoroughly. Ensure that all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and makes the filling easier to handle.
Wrapping the Filling
To wrap the filling in Lumpia wrappers, follow these simple instructions:
1. Remove the filling from the refrigerator and place it nearby.
2. Lay a Lumpia wrapper on a clean and flat surface, forming a diamond shape, with one corner pointing towards you.
3. Spoon a small amount of filling onto the center of the wrapper, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Begin rolling the wrapper over the filling, tucking in the sides halfway through the roll. Ensure that the roll is tight, yet delicate, to prevent any tearing.
5. Moisten the remaining corner of the wrapper with water, then press it against the roll to seal it. Repeat this process with the remaining filling and wrappers.
Cooking in an Air Fryer
Now that the Lumpiang Shanghai is wrapped and ready, it is time to cook them in the air fryer. Follow these steps for a delicious and healthier alternative to deep-frying:
Preheating the Air Fryer
1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This step ensures that the Lumpia gets cooked evenly.
Brushing with Oil
1. Lightly brush the Lumpia rolls with cooking oil. This step helps achieve a crisp and golden exterior.
Air Frying the Lumpia
1. Arrange the Lumpiang Shanghai rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
2. Set the air fryer temperature to 380°F (193°C) and cook for about 10 minutes.
3. After 10 minutes, flip the Lumpia rolls using tongs to ensure even cooking.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the Lumpia is golden brown and cooked through.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your Lumpiang Shanghai rolls are perfectly cooked, it is time to enjoy them. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your culinary experience:
1. Serve the Lumpia rolls immediately while they are still hot and crispy. This dish is best enjoyed when freshly cooked.
2. Pair the Lumpiang Shanghai with a dipping sauce of your choice. Sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce with calamansi, or a combination of vinegar and garlic are popular options.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley to add a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
4. Serve alongside steamed rice or as an appetizer in a Filipino-themed meal.
A Healthier Twist on a Classic Dish
Cooking Lumpiang Shanghai in an air fryer provides a healthier alternative to deep-frying, without compromising on taste and texture. The air fryer achieves a similar level of crispiness and browning, all while using a fraction of the oil. By making this switch, you can enjoy a guilt-free and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion.
In conclusion, cooking Lumpiang Shanghai in an air fryer is a simple and convenient way to enjoy this Filipino favorite. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and healthier version of this classic dish. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and delight your taste buds with these crispy, flavorful, and guilt-free Lumpiang Shanghai rolls!