Shrimp Egg Rolls are a crispy and delicious appetizer, packed with shrimp, sautéed vegetables, and vermicelli noodles, all wrapped in a crunchy egg roll shell. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a light main course, these egg rolls deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- ½ pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1.5 ounces vermicelli noodles
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (plus more for noodles)
- 2 cups green cabbage, shredded (about ⅓ of a cabbage)
- 1 cup carrots, shredded (about 1 large carrot)
- ½ cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 3 cloves)
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembly and Frying:
- Egg roll wrappers
- Cooking oil (for frying)
Directions
1. Prepare the Vermicelli Noodles:
- Cook the vermicelli noodles according to package instructions.
- Rinse under cold water and toss lightly with sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cabbage, carrots, and green onions, and sauté until tender (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic, ginger, oyster sauce, soy sauce, shrimp, salt, and pepper.
- Sauté until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- Prepare a clean work surface with egg roll wrappers, a small bowl of water, the filling, and the noodles.
- Place an egg roll wrapper with a corner facing you. Add some shrimp-vegetable filling and vermicelli noodles to the lower third of the wrapper.
- Roll the wrapper up over the filling, fold in the sides, and continue rolling. Use water to seal the edge of the wrapper.
4. Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Heat 2 inches of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Fry the egg rolls in batches, ensuring space between each roll. Cook for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly.
5. Serve:
- Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or soy sauce.
Nutrients (Per Egg Roll – Approximate)
- Calories: 41
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fat: 1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 131 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 1468 IU
- Vitamin C: 5 mg
These Shrimp Egg Rolls are a crowd-pleaser, offering the perfect balance of savory shrimp, crisp veggies, and crunchy wrappers. They’re sure to become a go-to appetizer or snack! 🌟🦐
The Appeal of Shrimp Egg Rolls
1. A Versatile Dish
Shrimp egg rolls are not just an appetizer—they can be served as a snack, part of a meal, or even a grab-and-go lunch. Their compact size and rich filling make them a versatile option for different dining scenarios.
2. Crispy and Flavorful
The crispy outer shell perfectly complements the juicy and savory shrimp filling. Every bite offers a delightful contrast between the crunch of the wrapper and the tender filling.
3. Great for Entertaining
Egg rolls are a hit at parties, game nights, and family gatherings. Their handheld nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, while their bold flavors guarantee they’ll disappear quickly.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
1. Shrimp
Shrimp serves as the star ingredient, providing a delicate, juicy protein that pairs beautifully with the vegetables and seasonings. Its natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor of the egg rolls.
2. Vegetables
A combination of green cabbage, carrots, and green onions creates a vibrant, nutrient-packed filling. These vegetables add crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the shrimp and seasonings.
3. Vermicelli Noodles
Vermicelli noodles bring a soft, chewy texture to the filling, creating a satisfying bite. They also absorb the savory flavors of the sauce, tying the ingredients together.
4. Seasonings
Garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and oyster sauce infuse the filling with bold and aromatic flavors, giving the egg rolls their signature taste. These ingredients create a harmonious blend of salty, savory, and slightly sweet notes.
5. Egg Roll Wrappers
The wrappers are essential for holding the filling together and achieving that classic crispy texture when fried. They’re sturdy enough to handle the juicy filling while frying to perfection.
Cooking and Preparation Tips
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh shrimp and vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the egg rolls. Opt for ripe, crisp veggies and high-quality shrimp for the best results.
2. Freeze the Wrappers
If your egg roll wrappers are slightly sticky or difficult to handle, pop them in the freezer for a few minutes. This makes them easier to separate and roll.
3. Avoid Overfilling
To prevent the egg rolls from breaking or leaking while frying, be cautious not to overfill them. A small amount of filling goes a long way.
4. Seal the Wrappers Properly
Using water to seal the edges of the wrappers ensures they stay intact during frying. Make sure the edges are tightly pressed together to avoid oil seeping in.
5. Monitor the Oil Temperature
Maintain an oil temperature of 350°F (175°C) for perfectly fried egg rolls. If the oil is too hot, the wrappers may burn before the filling is cooked through.
Variations and Customizations
1. Vegetarian Option
Replace the shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Shrimp Egg Rolls
Add chopped chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick. Serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra layer of heat.
3. Baked Version
For a healthier alternative, bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
4. Air-Fried Egg Rolls
Air fry the rolls at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, lightly brushing them with oil for a golden, crispy finish.
5. Different Protein Options
Substitute shrimp with ground chicken, pork, or turkey for a different protein profile. Seafood lovers can also try a mix of shrimp and crab.
Serving Suggestions
Shrimp egg rolls pair beautifully with a variety of dipping sauces and sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving presentation:
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, or a tangy plum sauce.
- Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or fried rice for a complete meal.
- Garnishes: Add sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Health Benefits of Shrimp Egg Rolls
1. High Protein Content
Shrimp is a lean protein source, making these egg rolls a filling and nutritious option.
2. Packed with Vegetables
The inclusion of cabbage, carrots, and green onions adds vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish.
3. Controlled Ingredients
Homemade egg rolls allow you to control the amount of oil, salt, and seasoning, making them a healthier alternative to takeout.
4. Balanced Meal
With protein, vegetables, and carbs, shrimp egg rolls offer a balanced mix of macronutrients in every bite.
Tips for Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be cooked straight from frozen.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) or in an air fryer until heated through and crispy.
Conclusion: A Perfect Appetizer for Any Occasion
Shrimp Egg Rolls are a delightful blend of flavors and textures, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer for a dinner party, a snack during game night, or a light meal, they’re sure to impress. Their versatility allows for endless customizations, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
With their crispy exterior, savory filling, and vibrant flavors, Shrimp Egg Rolls bring a touch of elegance to the table without requiring complex preparation. Once you master this recipe, it will undoubtedly become a staple in your appetizer rotation. Enjoy these tasty, homemade egg rolls with family and friends, and watch them disappear in no time! 🌟🦐🍤
