Spring rolls are a beloved delicacy hailing from East Asia, and they bring a refreshing vibe to any meal. When made perfect, they’re crispy on the outside, bursting with flavour on the inside, and best enjoyed with a zesty dipping sauce. Here, we'll dive into a simple yet effective way to prepare these scrumptious rolls using an air fryer - a healthy alternative to traditional deep-frying.
Why Air Fry?
The air fryer has taken the cooking world by storm and it's easy to see why. Using rapid air technology, it delivers that desired crispy exterior without the excess oil. This not only makes it a healthier choice but also reduces the cooking mess and fuss.
Ingredients
- Spring roll wrappers - 12 sheets
- 1 cup of shredded cabbage
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 100g bean sprouts
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large pan, heat a touch of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Introduce the cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, stirring them continuously until slightly wilted. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix until the vegetables are well coated and cooked to a tender crunch. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Wrap the Rolls: Place one spring roll wrapper on a clean surface like a diamond. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the vegetable mixture near the bottom corner of the wrapper. Fold the bottom over the filling, tuck the sides in, and then roll it up tightly. Moisten the top corner with water to seal the roll. Repeat this with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 180°C (360°F) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes.
- Air Fry the Spring Rolls: Lightly brush each roll with vegetable oil and place in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch. Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy, turning halfway through the cooking time.
- Serve: Once ready, remove the spring rolls and allow them to cool slightly. Serve with your preferred dipping sauce. Sweet chilli sauce or soy sauce are excellent choices.
Tips and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to the filling for an extra protein kick.
- Spice it Up: Include chopped chillies in the vegetable mix for an added spice level.
- Storage: Spring rolls can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before air frying.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked spring rolls on a tray, then transfer to a bag or container once solid. They can be air fried directly from frozen, with a few additional minutes in the air fryer.
Conclusion
Air-fried spring rolls are both a healthier and a less mess-inducing alternative to deep-fried versions without compromising on taste or texture. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can savour these wonderful treats right in the comfort of your home. Enjoy the satisfying crunch with each bite!