Frying Egg Rolls: Deep Fryer Method Explored

Egg rolls are a beloved Chinese food takeout option, but can you fry them in a deep fryer? The answer is yes, you can! Deep frying is one of the most common methods for cooking egg rolls, and it results in a crispy exterior that highlights the savory flavors of the filling. To achieve the perfect deep-fried egg roll, it is important to use an oil with a high smoking point, such as peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil. The oil should be heated to around 350-375 degrees Fahrenheit before adding the egg rolls in small batches to avoid crowding the pan. With this guide, you'll be on your way to creating delicious, crispy egg rolls in no time!

Can I Fry Egg Rolls in a Deep Fryer?

Oil temperature for deep frying egg rolls

Egg rolls can be deep-fried, pan-fried, baked, or air-fried. Deep-frying is one of the preferred methods for cooking frozen egg rolls as it highlights the savoury flavours and results in an ultra-crispy exterior.

When deep-frying egg rolls, the oil temperature should be closely monitored. If the oil is too hot, the egg rolls will burn, and if it is not hot enough, the egg rolls will turn soggy. The ideal temperature for deep-frying egg rolls is 370°F to 375°F.

Peanut oil is a great choice for frying egg rolls as it has a high smoking point and imparts a nutty flavour. Other oils with a high smoking point, such as canola or corn oil, can also be used. Oils with a low smoking point, like sesame oil or olive oil, are not suitable for deep-frying.

When frying, do not overcrowd the pan as this will lower the temperature of the oil, causing the egg rolls to absorb more oil. Fry only a few egg rolls at a time, working in batches if necessary. Each batch should take around 1 to 2 minutes to cook and achieve a golden brown colour.

How to assemble egg rolls before frying

Egg rolls are a popular Chinese food that can be made at home and fried in a deep fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble egg rolls before frying:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Firstly, prepare the filling by cooking the ingredients of your choice. A typical egg roll filling includes ground pork, shredded cabbage, carrots, and seasonings such as garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. You can also add other vegetables like green onions, or use alternative proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or beef. Stir-fry the vegetables and meat together, and then set the mixture aside to cool.

Step 2: Get the Wrappers Ready

Place an egg roll wrapper on your work surface. Egg roll wrappers can usually be found in the refrigerated section of the produce area at most grocery stores. You will need about 1-2 tablespoons of filling for each wrapper.

Step 3: Fill and Seal the Egg Rolls

Place the filling in the centre of the wrapper, using a beaten egg to seal the edges. Fold two corners of the wrapper together over the filling, then fold in the other sides and roll tightly. Repeat this process until you have the desired number of egg rolls.

Step 4: Prepare for Frying

Add enough oil to a deep fryer or deep pan to reach a depth of about 2-3 inches (5-7 cm). Heat the oil to 350-375°F (177-191°C). You can use peanut oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or another similar oil with a high smoking point.

Step 5: Fry the Egg Rolls

Carefully place a few egg rolls at a time into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the egg rolls in batches if necessary. Cook them until the wrappers are golden brown and crispy, which should take around 3-5 minutes.

Step 6: Drain and Serve

Remove the cooked egg rolls from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard. Enjoy!

How long to deep fry egg rolls

Yes, you can fry egg rolls in a deep fryer. Here is a detailed guide on how long to deep fry egg rolls:

First, prepare your ingredients and filling. This may include stir-frying shredded cabbage, green onions, and meat or shrimp with seasonings like soy sauce and brown sugar. You can also add thinly sliced vegetables like carrots. Once the filling is cooked and seasoned to your liking, set it aside to cool before filling your egg roll wrappers.

For the deep frying process, use a deep fryer or a deep frying pan and add enough oil to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to a temperature between 350°F and 375°F. Maintaining the right temperature is crucial to ensure your egg rolls turn out crispy and golden, not soggy. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature if possible.

Now, carefully add a few egg rolls to the hot oil at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pan or fryer as this can lower the oil temperature, causing your egg rolls to absorb more oil and potentially becoming greasy. Fry the egg rolls for approximately 1 to 2 minutes, or until the wrappers turn golden brown. Keep in mind that the frying time may vary slightly depending on the size of your egg rolls.

Once they are golden brown, remove the egg rolls from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. You can keep the cooked egg rolls warm in a low oven or on a cooling rack until ready to serve. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or spicy mustard.

By following these instructions and paying attention to the oil temperature and frying time, you can ensure that your deep-fried egg rolls turn out perfectly crispy and delicious every time.

How to store leftover egg rolls

Yes, you can fry egg rolls in a deep fryer. To do so, add 2 inches of peanut oil to a deep fryer or deep pan and heat the oil to 370 °F (188 °C). Then, add a few egg rolls at a time to the oil, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry the egg rolls for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the wrappers are golden brown. Remove them with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels before serving.

Now, for storing leftover egg rolls:

Properly storing leftover egg rolls is essential to maintain their freshness, flavour, and texture. By following the correct storage methods, you can extend their shelf life and ensure they remain tasty for longer. Here are some detailed, direct, and instructive guidelines on how to store leftover egg rolls:

Cool Before Storing:

Allow the egg rolls to cool down to room temperature before storing them. Placing warm egg rolls in a sealed container can create condensation, leading to soggy rolls.

Use Airtight Containers:

Store the egg rolls in airtight containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure the containers are sealed tightly to prevent moisture and odours from seeping in or out.

Refrigerate or Freeze:

If you plan to consume the leftover egg rolls within a few days, store them in the refrigerator. Place the containers in the main compartment, away from raw meats and strong-smelling foods. Consume the refrigerated egg rolls within 3 to 4 days for the best quality. If you want to store them for a longer period, freezing is recommended.

Wrap Tightly:

Before placing them in the containers or bags, wrap each egg roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil. This helps maintain their texture and flavour by preventing air from entering and moisture from escaping.

Label and Track:

Label the containers or bags with the date of preparation or freezing. This helps you keep track of their freshness and ensures you consume them within a safe timeframe.

Thawing Techniques:

If you're freezing the egg rolls, you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator when you're ready to eat them. This gradual thawing process helps retain their crispiness and prevents bacterial growth. You can also use a water bath method by placing the wrapped egg rolls in a bowl of cold water for 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes. Once thawed, cook or reheat them promptly.

Reheating:

You can reheat egg rolls in an oven, air fryer, or even deep fryer to restore their crispy texture. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C) and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until hot and crispy. For an air fryer, preheat to the same temperature and cook for 5-7 minutes. If you want to deep-fry, heat vegetable oil to 350 °F (175 °C) and fry for 3-4 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

Remember, it is important to handle reheated egg rolls with care as they can be very hot. Serve them with your favourite dipping sauces and enjoy!

What oil is best for deep frying egg rolls

When it comes to deep-frying egg rolls, the oil you use is important. The best oils for deep frying egg rolls have a high smoking point, are healthy, cost-effective, and have a neutral taste and scent.

Peanut oil is a great option for frying egg rolls as it has a high smoking point and lends a nutty flavour. However, it is expensive and hard to find in stores, and may not be suitable if you are catering to guests with nut allergies. Canola oil and corn oil are good alternatives, and are widely available and affordable.

Other oils with high smoking points that are suitable for deep-frying egg rolls include coconut oil, grapeseed oil, vegetable oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, rice bran oil, safflower oil, and olive oil. Oils with low smoking points, such as sesame oil and olive oil, are not recommended for deep-frying.

Frequently asked questions