Oh, let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite recipes—Roast Pork Egg Rolls! There’s something so satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden brown egg roll filled with all those delicious flavors. I remember the first time I made these; it was a rainy Saturday, and I wanted to bring a little sunshine into my kitchen. I had some leftover roast pork from a family dinner and thought, “Why not transform it into something fun?” And that’s how the experiment turned into a cherished recipe.
These egg rolls are perfect for parties, game nights, or even just a cozy dinner at home. Plus, they’re an excellent way to use up leftovers creatively. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking something extraordinary!
## What’s in Roast Pork Egg Rolls?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this delight:
Ground Roast Pork: This is the star of the show! If you have some leftover roast pork, chop it finely, or you can use freshly ground pork. The flavor is unbeatable!
Cabbage: Shredded cabbage adds crunch and a lovely texture, not to mention it’s an excellent way to add some veggies to our lives.
Carrots: Julienned carrots are not only colorful but also bring a natural sweetness that balances the savory ingredients beautifully.
Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a subtle oniony flavor without being overpowering, plus they add nice color.
Garlic & Ginger: You can’t go wrong with garlic and ginger. They’re the dynamic duo that bring warmth and depth to the filling.
Soy Sauce: This gives it that umami kick. I tend to go for low-sodium soy sauce to keep things a bit lighter.
Oyster Sauce (optional): If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of oyster sauce can elevate the flavor even more.
Sesame Oil: This adds a nutty richness that rounds out the filling beautifully.
Egg Roll Wrappers: You can usually find these in the frozen section of your grocery store. They’re thin and crispy, perfect for frying.
Vegetable Oil: For frying your egg rolls until they’re golden and delicious!
## Is Roast Pork Egg Rolls Good for You?
Now, let’s talk health—because, let’s be honest, we all want to enjoy our treats without guilt!
Pork: If you use lean ground pork or the leftover roast, you’re getting a good source of protein.
Cabbage and Carrots: These veggies are not just there for crunch! Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which is great for your eyes.
However, keep in mind that while egg rolls are a lovely treat, they’re fried and can be a bit heavy, especially with the oil. Moderation is key! Plus, you can always bake them for a lighter version if you like—crispy baked egg rolls are pretty good too!
## Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground roast pork (or leftover roast pork, finely chopped)
– 2 cups cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup carrots, julienned
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-14 egg roll wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
This recipe will make about 12-14 delicious egg rolls, perfect for sharing—or not!
## How to Make Roast Pork Egg Rolls?
Alright, let’s dive into the cooking process!
1. Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. If you’re using ground roast pork, toss it in and let it brown. If you’re using leftover pork, make sure it’s finely chopped and heated through.
2. Once the pork is sizzling, add your shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, chopped green onions, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the veggies are tender and delicious.
3. Next, stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and sesame oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, then let it cook for another 2 minutes. This is where the magic happens! Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Get your egg roll wrappers ready on a clean surface. Place one wrapper with a corner pointing towards you. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the pork filling in the center.
5. Fold the corner closest to you over the filling, then fold in the sides like you’re tucking in a cozy blanket, and roll tightly away from you. Moisten the top corner with a little water to seal your egg roll. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Now, let’s fry these babies! In a deep pan or fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches for about 3-5 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remember to drain them on some paper towels!
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, whether it’s sweet and sour or good old soy sauce. Enjoy your fantastic roast pork egg rolls!
## Crispy Tips & Tricks
Here are a few of my personal tidbits to take your egg rolls to the next level:
– **Loading Up**: Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or bean sprouts for extra crunch!
– **Baked Option**: If you’re in the mood for a lighter version, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and brush the egg rolls with a little vegetable oil before baking for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway for that golden color.
– **Storage**: Unfried egg rolls can be stored in the freezer. Just make sure to lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. Fry them straight from frozen for a quick snack!
I really hope you give these Roast Pork Egg Rolls a try! There’s nothing quite like the flavors and memories wrapped up in each bite. And trust me, once you make them, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your back pocket. Enjoy the cooking adventure, and don’t forget to share your egg roll masterpieces—I can’t wait to hear about your kitchen escapades!
