Air-Fryer Magic: Frozen Lumpia, Crispy In Minutes

Lumpia is a Filipino version of a spring roll, typically filled with ground chicken or pork, vegetables, and sauces. They are a beloved snack and appetizer at gatherings and celebrations. When it comes to cooking frozen lumpia in an air fryer, the process is relatively straightforward and yields a crispy, golden brown finish. However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results. Firstly, it is essential to coat the lumpia evenly with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. Secondly, the cooking temperature and time may vary depending on the air fryer model, but generally, cooking at temperatures between 300°F and 390°F for 8 to 14 minutes should be sufficient. Lastly, it is recommended to not air fry vegetarian lumpia, as they may not hold up well during the cooking process. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy delicious, crispy lumpia with your favorite dipping sauces.

Air fryer temperature and timing

The air fryer temperature and timing will depend on the brand and model of your air fryer, as well as the size of your lumpia. As a general guide, most sources recommend cooking frozen lumpia at a temperature between 300°F and 400°F for 8 to 14 minutes.

For example, one source recommends cooking frozen lumpia at 300°F for 10 minutes. They suggest coating the lumpia in cooking spray first and spreading them in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

Another source provides more detailed instructions for cooking frozen lumpia in an air fryer. They suggest preheating your air fryer to 375°F for 2 minutes. Then, place the lumpia in a single layer, spritz with cooking spray or brush with oil, and air fry for 9 minutes. Check the lumpia and, if they are lightly golden brown, use tongs to flip them over. Brush with oil and air fry for an additional 5 minutes. The lumpia are done when they are golden brown and the wrappers are crispy. If they need a little longer, you can cook them for an additional 2 minutes max.

A third source recommends preheating your air fryer to 390°F and cooking the lumpia for 4 minutes. Then, flip them over and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the skins are crispy.

It's important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your lumpia, as well as the specific model of your air fryer. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on your lumpia while they are cooking to ensure they don't overcook or burn.

Additionally, some sources recommend avoiding air frying vegetarian lumpia, as they may not hold together well during the cooking process. Instead, it's suggested to fry vegetarian lumpia in oil or bake them in the oven.

Lumpia wrapper type and brand

Lumpia wrappers are thin, paper-like skins that are soft and light in texture, but strong enough to hold fillings without breaking apart. They are typically made from wheat flour, cornstarch, and water.

There are several brands of lumpia wrappers available in the market, including:

• Menlo All-Purpose Spring Roll Lumpia Wrappers: Available in packs of 16 oz, these wrappers come in a red package and are easy to pull apart with minimal rips. They are known to fry up nicely.
• Wei-Chuan Spring Roll Pastry Lumpia Wrapper: This brand offers 11 oz or 25 sheets per pack.
• Spring Home: Spring Home offers both 6" and 8.5" wrappers.
• Simex: Simex offers lumpia wrappers in a red or blue box. The red box is better value for money, while the blue box offers wrappers that are individually separated, making them easier to work with.
• Dynasty & Twin Dragon: These brands offer egg roll wrappers that are thicker and heavier than traditional lumpia wrappers.
• Spring Home Tyj: This brand offers lumpia wrappers that fry up nicely.

When choosing a wrapper for your lumpia, it is important to select spring roll wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers, as the latter are thicker and heavier. Additionally, some brands specifically cater to vegetarian or vegan diets, so be sure to choose a wrapper that aligns with your dietary preferences and requirements.

Oil type and application

When it comes to cooking frozen lumpia in an air fryer, the type of oil and its application play a crucial role in achieving the perfect crispiness and flavour. Here's a detailed guide to help you get it just right:

Oil Type

The choice of oil can impact the taste and texture of your lumpia. While you can use various oils, two popular options are vegetable oil and olive oil.

• Vegetable Oil: This is a recommended option for brushing or spritzing onto the lumpia before air frying. It has a neutral flavour that won't overpower the delicate taste of the lumpia filling.
• Olive Oil: While olive oil can be used, some consider its flavour to be too strong for this particular dish. However, if you enjoy the taste of olive oil, you can certainly use it.

Application

Now that you've chosen your oil, it's time to apply it to your frozen lumpia:

• Brush or Spritz: Before placing the lumpia in the air fryer, use a pastry brush to lightly coat each piece with oil. Alternatively, you can use a spritzer or cooking spray to apply a fine mist of oil. This step ensures that the lumpia doesn't dry out during cooking and helps achieve that signature crispy texture.
• Air Fryer Basket: Place the oiled lumpia into the air fryer basket, ensuring they don't touch each other. This arrangement allows hot air to circulate around each piece, promoting even cooking.
• Cooking Spray: Some recipes suggest using cooking spray instead of oil. You can spritz the lumpia with cooking spray before placing them in the air fryer. Alternatively, you can spray the lumpia after they are cooked to enhance their appearance and texture.
• Flip and Oil: Depending on the recipe, you may be instructed to flip the lumpia halfway through the cooking process. At this point, you can brush or spritz the other side with oil to ensure even crisping.

Remember, the key to achieving crispy lumpia is not just the oil but also the hot air circulating in the air fryer. By following these steps and choosing the right oil for your taste preferences, you'll be able to create delicious, golden-brown lumpia that your family and friends will love!

Filling type and moisture content

Lumpia is a Filipino version of spring rolls, typically filled with ground chicken or pork, carrots, onions, cabbage, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce. They are also often served with a sweet chilli dipping sauce.

When preparing the filling, it is important to consider the moisture content of the ingredients. Excess moisture can make the lumpia soggy, so it is crucial to drain any excess liquid from the filling before wrapping. The filling ingredients should also be cut into small and uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and prevent the release of excess moisture during frying.

Lumpia wrappers are typically made from wheat flour, cornstarch, and water. They are thin, delicate, and strong enough to hold the fillings. When assembling the lumpia, it is important to roll them tightly and firmly. Loose rolls can allow oil to seep in, making the lumpia soggy. The final end of the lumpia should be sealed with a flour paste or egg wash to prevent it from unravelling during frying.

The moisture content of the filling plays a crucial role in the cooking process. For frozen lumpia, it is recommended to cook them without thawing first. Air frying is a convenient option, with a cooking time of around 14 minutes at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. The lumpia should be placed in a single layer, brushed with oil, and flipped halfway through to ensure even cooking.

By following these steps and paying attention to the moisture content of the filling, you can create delicious and crispy lumpia with a golden-brown exterior and a flavourful filling.

Dipping sauces

Lumpia, the Filipino version of spring rolls, is best served with a variety of dipping sauces. Here are some ideas for sweet, sour, and spicy sauces to elevate your lumpia-eating experience:

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A classic condiment for lumpia, this sauce combines sweet and sour flavours with a hint of spice. You can make it at home by mixing apple cider vinegar, cornstarch, ketchup, finely minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Boil the mixture until it thickens, then set it aside to cool. This sauce is a perfect complement to the crispy, golden-brown lumpia.

Soy Sauce with Hot Chili Oil

For those who enjoy a spicy kick, soy sauce with added hot chili oil makes for an excellent dipping sauce. The savoury and spicy combination enhances the flavours of the lumpia filling, whether it's chicken, pork, or vegetables.

Sweet Chili Sauce

This Thai-inspired sauce is a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy flavours. It typically includes crushed garlic, white vinegar, chili paste, and a grated carrot for added colour and flavour. Cornstarch or arrowroot powder is used to achieve a thick and smooth texture. This sauce is a delicious choice for those who crave a balance of sweet and spicy.

Soy Sauce, Vinegar, and Garlic Dip

A simple yet tasty dip can be made by combining soy sauce, rice vinegar, and granulated garlic. For an extra kick, add some spicy garlic chili sauce to the mix. This dip is a great option if you're looking for something savoury with a hint of spice.

Other Ideas

Lumpia is a versatile dish, and you can get creative with your dipping sauces. Here are some additional ideas:

• Spicy garlic sauce with brown sugar, ginger, and cornstarch slurry.
• Soy sauce with rice vinegar and garlic.
• Sweet chili sauce with a blend of store-bought varieties.

Frequently asked questions