Air-Fryer Spring Rolls: A Healthy, Quick Treat?

Spring rolls are a delicious snack, but frying them can be a hassle due to the mess and the amount of oil required. Luckily, air fryers offer a convenient, cleaner, and healthier alternative to frying spring rolls without compromising on taste and texture. In fact, many people prefer the taste and texture of air-fried spring rolls. This introduction will discuss whether you can cook spring rolls in an air fryer and provide some tips on how to do so.

Cooking times and temperatures for air-fried spring rolls

Air-fried spring rolls are a quick, easy, and tasty snack. They are also healthier than deep-fried spring rolls as they use less oil.

The cooking time and temperature for air-fried spring rolls depend on the type of spring roll and the air fryer model.

For frozen spring rolls, preheat the air fryer to 400°F ( 200°C ). Brush the spring rolls with oil, then place them in the air fryer basket. Fry for 4 minutes, then turn the spring rolls and place them back in the fryer for another 4 minutes at the same temperature.

For homemade spring rolls, the air fryer should be preheated to 350°F ( 175°C ). Brush the spring rolls with oil and place them in the air fryer basket. Fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking process, until the spring rolls are crispy and golden brown on all sides.

It is important to note that the cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the size of the spring rolls and the air fryer model. For larger spring rolls, it is recommended to start with 5 + 5 minutes and then adjust as needed. If using a toaster oven-style air fryer, the cooking time may also need to be adjusted.

How to prevent spring rolls from sticking to the air fryer

Spring rolls are a delightful treat that can be made in an air fryer with minimal oil and mess. To prevent spring rolls from sticking to the air fryer, follow these steps:

Firstly, ensure your air fryer basket is well-oiled. Use a cooking spray or brush to apply a light coating of oil to the basket. This will create a non-stick surface and help to achieve that perfect golden brown finish.

Secondly, arrange the spring rolls in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded and have room to breathe. This is crucial as it allows hot air to circulate around each spring roll, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking. If you are cooking a large batch, you may need to cook them in several batches to avoid overcrowding.

Thirdly, when preparing your spring rolls, ensure they are sealed properly. Dab the edges with a cornflour slurry or water to seal them neatly and prevent any leakage during cooking. This will help to avoid any sticking caused by filling seeping out.

Additionally, while some recipes suggest preheating the air fryer, others recommend placing the spring rolls directly into the air fryer without preheating. Experiment with both methods to see which works best for your particular air fryer model.

Finally, during the cooking process, keep an eye on your spring rolls and adjust the temperature or cooking time as needed. If they are browning too quickly, you can lower the temperature or loosely cover them with foil. This will prevent over-browning and ensure the insides cook through properly.

The best oils for air-frying spring rolls

Air-fried spring rolls are a quick, easy, and tasty snack that can be made in under 10 minutes. While you can cook spring rolls in an air fryer without oil, brushing or spraying them with a small amount of oil will make them crispier.

The best oils to use for air-frying spring rolls are those with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil, rapeseed oil, and vegetable oil. You can also use olive oil, but its lower smoke point means it may not be as suitable.

When using an air fryer, it is important to arrange the spring rolls in a single layer to ensure even cooking and prevent sogginess. Additionally, preheating the air fryer and brushing the spring rolls with oil before placing them in the fryer can help achieve the desired crispiness.

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Brush or spray the frozen spring rolls with a thin layer of oil.
• Place the spring rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching.
• Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
• Remove the spring rolls from the air fryer and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

By following these steps and using the recommended oils, you can achieve crispy and delicious spring rolls without the mess and hassle of deep-frying.

How to prepare spring roll fillings

Spring rolls are a delicious snack and can be made with a variety of fillings. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare some common spring roll fillings:

Pork and Vegetable Filling:

This is a classic spring roll filling option. Start by toasting some sesame seeds in a saucepan. You can add ground pork, or substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced air fryer pork belly. Add onion powder, black pepper, ground ginger, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and green onions. Cook this mixture until most of the juices evaporate. Next, add cabbage and cook until it wilts. You can also add other vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, and bean sprouts. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tofu and Vegetable Filling:

For a plant-based option, you can use extra-firm tofu as your protein. Tofu adds a satisfying contrast to the fresh filling ingredients and provides plant-based protein. For vegetables, you can use carrots, cucumbers, jalapeño peppers, mango, avocado, and a variety of fresh herbs like basil, mint, and cilantro. You can also add bean sprouts, red bell pepper, or purple cabbage for extra crunch.

Noodle Filling:

Cook vermicelli noodles or rice vermicelli according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. You can add these noodles to your spring rolls along with your choice of vegetables and protein.

Filling Tips:

When preparing your filling, make sure it is not too watery. A sticky consistency is ideal to prevent soggy spring rolls. You can also add cornflour to the filling to help absorb any excess moisture. Additionally, don't overfill your spring roll wrappers. About 2-3 tablespoons of filling is usually enough.

Dipping sauces for air-fried spring rolls

Air-fried spring rolls are a delicious, quick, and easy snack or appetizer. They are also a healthier alternative to deep-fried spring rolls. The best part about spring rolls is the variety of dipping sauces that can be paired with them.

• Peanut sauce is a creamy, nutty dip with a hint of ginger. It is usually made with almond butter, but other nut butters such as cashew or macadamia nut butter can also be used.
• Avocado crema is a cool and creamy dip that pairs well with the hot spring rolls.
• Sweet chili sauce is a classic, tangy, and flavorful sauce that goes well with spring rolls. It can be paired with dark soy sauce for a savory and sweet combination.
• Hoisin sauce is a classic, sweet, and savory sauce that is a perfect dip for spring rolls. It has a good viscosity and is not overly sweet.
• Vietnamese nuoc cham ( fish sauce ) is a tangy and savory sauce that is a great vegan alternative to the classic fish sauce. It is made with a mixture of water and soy sauce, seasoned with sea salt.

In addition to these classic sauces, you can also experiment with different combinations of ingredients to create your own unique dipping sauce. For example, you can add a bit of sugar to your sauce for a touch of sweetness, or use chili garlic sauce to add some spice and flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Frequently asked questions