These crispy air fryer spring rolls are a fun treat! Filled with veggies and protein, they come out golden and crunchy without all the extra oil.
Making spring rolls at home is easy and gives you a chance to sneak in your favorite fillings. Plus, they disappear fast—just like my willpower when snacks are around! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spring Roll Wrappers: These are essential for your spring rolls. You can find them in Asian grocery stores. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you could try rice paper wrappers!
Cabbage: Shredded cabbage adds crunch. Napa cabbage works great, but you can also use green cabbage or savoy. If you want variety, add sliced bell peppers for extra color!
Carrots: Freshly shredded carrots give a hint of sweetness. In a pinch, pre-shredded carrots or even coleslaw mix can substitute nicely.
Protein: Chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all good options. If you want a vegetarian version, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas for protein without meat!
Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best! If you’re short on time, garlic powder and ground ginger can work in a bind, but the flavor won’t be as bright.
Soy Sauce & Sesame Oil: These add depth and richness. You can use tamari for a gluten-free version, and for a lighter touch, substitute with low-sodium soy sauce.
How Do You Fold Spring Rolls Without Breaking Them?
Folding spring rolls can seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you out:
- Lay the wrapper in a diamond shape, making it easier to fold.
- Place filling closer to the bottom corner, but leave some space along the sides.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the side corners snugly.
- Roll tightly towards the top corner and seal the edge with water. This helps the roll stick together.
- Don’t overfill! A little filling goes a long way to prevent tearing.
Take your time and don’t rush! The first few might not be perfect, but they’ll taste great!
How to Make Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or napa)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
- 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
For The Wrappers:
- 10 spring roll wrappers
- Cooking spray or oil mist
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20-25 minutes total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prepping and filling the spring rolls, 3 minutes to preheat the air fryer, and about 10-12 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and tasty way to enjoy homemade spring rolls!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
Begin by gathering a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, minced garlic, and your chosen cooked protein (if using). Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, ground black pepper, and grated ginger (if you like the extra flavor). Mix everything together until it’s well blended and looks colorful!
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take one spring roll wrapper and place it on a clean flat surface in a diamond shape. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of your filling towards the bottom corner of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the side corners snuggly to secure it. Roll it up towards the top corner while sealing the edge with a little water to make sure it sticks. Repeat this with all the wrappers and filling until you’re all done!
3. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. While it heats up, lightly spray the spring rolls with some cooking spray or oil mist. This helps them get nice and crispy! Place the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Once they’re done, carefully remove them and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
These delicious spring rolls are ready to enjoy! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce, and dig in!
Enjoy your crispy and delicious air-fried spring rolls!
Can I Use Different Proteins in These Spring Rolls?
Absolutely! You can use any cooked protein you like, such as shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked lentils or chickpeas!
How Can I Prepare the Spring Rolls in Advance?
You can make the filling and wrap the spring rolls ahead of time! Store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just be sure to cover them with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness!
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With Air Fryer Spring Rolls?
These spring rolls are delicious with a variety of sauces! Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, peanut sauce, or even a tangy vinegar dip work wonderfully. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
