Spring Rolls: Dry Fryer Magic?

Yes, you can make spring rolls in a dry fryer! Using an air fryer is a healthier alternative to deep-frying spring rolls, and you will still get the same great taste and texture. The air fryer's circulation of hot air will make your spring rolls super crispy without drying them out. It's also a lot less messy than frying, and there's no oil splatter to deal with. You can use store-bought wrappers and filling, or make your own. Just brush or spray your spring rolls with a little oil, and cook them in the air fryer for a few minutes until they're golden brown and crispy.

How long to cook spring rolls in an air fryer

Yes, you can make spring rolls in a dry fryer!

Preparation:

First, gather your ingredients. You will need spring rolls (preferably frozen), vegetable oil (a neutral oil like rapeseed oil is recommended), and your choice of dipping sauce.

Cooking:

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, brush the frozen spring rolls with a thin layer of oil.

Once preheated, place the spring rolls into the air fryer basket in a single layer. Frying them in batches is recommended to ensure even cooking. Fry the spring rolls for 4 minutes at 400°F (200°C).

After 4 minutes, remove the basket and turn the spring rolls over. Place the basket back into the air fryer and fry for an additional 4 minutes at the same temperature.

Your spring rolls should now be crispy and golden brown. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips:

• It is important to cook the spring rolls in a single layer to prevent sogginess.
• If your spring rolls are larger, you may need to adjust the cooking time. Start with 5 minutes on each side and then check if they are warmed through.
• Frozen spring rolls should be cooked straight from frozen for the best results.
• Remember to preheat your air fryer and turn the spring rolls halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• All air fryers are different, so cooking times may vary slightly.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy spring rolls!

How to assemble spring rolls

Ingredients

First, you will need to gather your ingredients. The ingredients for spring rolls can vary, but typically include rice paper wrappers, cooked rice noodles, vegetables (such as lettuce, cucumber, carrot, and basil), meat (such as cooked shrimp or pork), and herbs (such as mint and cilantro). You will also need a bowl of lukewarm water to dip the wrappers in.

Assembly

• Take a sheet of rice paper and cut it into four even pieces. These reinforcements will help prevent tearing when you roll the spring rolls.
• Dip one sheet of rice paper in the lukewarm water, then add one of the reinforcement pieces.
• Place the rice noodles towards the bottom of the wrapper, leaving about 1.5-2 inches of space on each side.
• Add your desired fillings on top of the rice noodles, keeping them narrower than the width of the noodles. You can add lettuce, herbs, meat, or shrimp.
• Fold the sides of the rice paper inward, and then begin to roll the wrapper upwards, compressing the ingredients as you go.
• When you reach the meat or shrimp, loosen the pressure a bit to avoid tearing the wrapper.
• Continue rolling until you have used up all of the wrapper, then place the finished spring roll sealed-side down on a plate or cutting board.

Tips

• It is important to work quickly when assembling spring rolls, as the rice paper can become sticky and difficult to work with if it gets too wet.
• Make sure there is no air trapped between the wrapper and the filling as you roll.
• If you are making multiple spring rolls, it can be helpful to pre-assemble your veggies, herbs, and noodles so that you can work more efficiently.
• If you want to make your spring rolls ahead of time, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 2-3 days.

What to serve with spring rolls

Spring rolls are a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetiser, or main course. They can be paired with various side dishes to enhance the dining experience. Here are some ideas on what to serve with spring rolls:

• Dipping Sauces: Spring rolls are commonly served with dipping sauces. Popular options include sweet and sour sauce, sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and Thai sweet chilli sauce. You can also get creative and make your own dipping sauce by combining sweet chilli sauce with dark soy sauce.
• Crunchy Asian Slaw: A colourful mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, and other vegetables, tossed with a tangy dressing. The crunch and vibrant flavours of the slaw contrast well with the soft and crispy spring rolls.
• Steamed Rice: Steamed jasmine rice is a simple yet versatile side dish that pairs well with spring rolls. It helps to balance the bold flavours of the rolls and absorb the dipping sauces.
• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colourful mix of sautéed fresh vegetables, such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and green beans, in a savoury sauce. Stir-fried vegetables add colour, flavour, and nutrition to your meal.
• Cold Sesame Noodles: Noodles coated in a rich, nutty sesame sauce. The cold temperature and smooth texture of the noodles provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, crispy spring rolls.
• Pickled Vegetables: Tangy and crunchy pickled vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or papaya offer a delightful contrast to the soft and savory spring rolls. Their acidity helps to balance the richness of the rolls.
• Coconut Rice: A fragrant and creamy side dish made by cooking rice in coconut milk. The nutty flavour of the coconut rice balances the bold taste of the spring rolls, adding a hint of sweetness.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: A popular Asian dish that combines succulent shrimp, flavourful rice, and vegetables. It offers a delicious contrast to the crisp spring rolls and adds an extra layer of complexity to your meal.
• Egg Roll in a Bowl: A deconstructed version of a traditional egg roll, featuring all the delicious fillings without the wrapper. It offers similar flavours to the spring rolls but in a different form.
• Miso Soup: A traditional Japanese soup made from miso paste, dashi, tofu, seaweed, or vegetables. Its warm, savoury, and comforting flavours make it an excellent accompaniment to spring rolls.

How to store spring rolls

Storing spring rolls can be tricky, as the rice paper can dry out and tear. Here are some tips to help keep your spring rolls fresh:

Storing Spring Rolls Overnight or for a Few Hours:

• Use a damp (not dripping wet) dish towel or tea towel to cover the spring rolls. You can also use damp paper towels, but these may stick to the rolls.
• Place the spring rolls in a single layer on a tray or baking sheet. Avoid stacking them to prevent tearing.
• Refresh the cloth with cool water every hour if needed.
• Keep the spring rolls away from heat sources, such as ovens or direct sunlight, to prevent the filling from spoiling.
• Alternatively, you can individually wrap each spring roll in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

Storing Spring Rolls for Longer Periods:

• For longer storage, it is best to freeze the spring rolls. Place them on a baking sheet or tray in the freezer until frozen, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
• Some people suggest dusting the spring rolls with cornstarch before freezing to prevent sticking and tearing, but this may not be suitable for all types of spring rolls.

Remember, spring rolls are best enjoyed fresh, so it is recommended to make and serve them on the same day whenever possible.

The difference between spring rolls and egg rolls

Yes, you can make spring rolls in a dry fryer. Here's a simple recipe:

Brush the frozen spring rolls with oil, then place them in the air fryer basket and fry for 4 minutes at 400°F (200°C). After 4 minutes, bring out the basket and turn the spring rolls, then place it back in the fryer for 4 more minutes at 400°F (200°C). Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Now, onto the differences between spring rolls and egg rolls. While the names are used interchangeably, there are some differences between the two.

Wrapper

Spring rolls are wrapped in thin flour wrappers or rice wrappers, whereas egg rolls have thicker, crispier wrappers that have been dipped in egg for added richness. Spring roll wrappers are also available in most supermarkets, usually in the produce section, while egg roll wrappers are harder to find.

Preparation

Egg rolls are fried, resulting in their bubbly, crispy exteriors. Spring rolls, on the other hand, may be baked or fried, and sometimes, the filling is the only part that's cooked.

Filling

Spring rolls typically contain fresh vegetables, while egg rolls are filled with a combination of savory meat and vegetables. However, spring rolls can also include meat, such as pork, chicken, or shrimp, in addition to vegetables.

History

Both spring rolls and egg rolls have their roots in Chinese cuisine, but egg rolls were first created in New York City's Chinatown in the 1930s by a Chinese chef. Spring rolls, meanwhile, have a longer history in Asia, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) in China.

Frequently asked questions