These crispy air fryer spring rolls are a tasty and fun snack! Stuffed with fresh veggies and maybe some meat, they’re golden and crunchy on the outside.
Making these is a breeze! Just fill, roll, and pop them in the air fryer. I love serving them with a dipping sauce, and trust me, you’ll want to make extra for sharing—if you can resist eating them all first! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spring Roll Wrappers: These are essential for crispy rolls. If you can’t find them, you might use rice paper or even tortillas as a substitute, though the texture will be different.
Cabbage: I like using green cabbage for its crunch. Napa cabbage is a great alternative for a milder flavor. If you’re in a crunch, even coleslaw mix works!
Protein: While cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for a heartier spring roll, it’s not necessary. Feel free to leave it out for a vegetarian option or swap for other proteins like ground beef or pork.
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, there’s reduced-sodium soy sauce. Tamari serves as a gluten-free substitute, and coconut aminos can also fit the bill for those avoiding soy altogether.
How Can I Roll Spring Rolls Perfectly?
Rolling spring rolls can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Start with fresh wrappers, as they are more pliable. Here’s how to roll them the right way:
- Place the wrapper with a corner facing you. This way, your filling stays secure.
- Spoon your filling close to the edge and fold the corner over it.
- Fold the sides inwards to prevent any filling from spilling out.
- Lastly, roll away from you to keep everything tight. Use some water on the edge to seal it.
With practice, you’ll get the hang of it, and your spring rolls will look amazing every time!
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Spring Rolls:
- 1 package (about 14 oz) spring roll wrappers
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked protein (such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu) – optional
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for air frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cooking time. So, you can whip up these delicious crispy spring rolls in about 30-35 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, green onions, and your choice of cooked protein if you’re using it. Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss the mixture well to combine all the flavors and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This will help the vegetables soak up all the yummy flavors!
2. Roll the Spring Rolls:
Take a spring roll wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface with one corner facing you. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the filling and place it near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners, and finally roll it away from you tightly to form a spring roll. Use a little water on the edge to seal it closed. Repeat this with the remaining wrappers and filling until they’re all rolled up!
3. Air Fry the Spring Rolls:
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (193°C). Once it’s ready, give your spring rolls a light coat of cooking spray or brush them with a bit of oil to make them extra crispy. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure they get golden brown and crispy on all sides. When they’re done, serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sweet chili sauce or soy sauce. Enjoy your crispy treats!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your filling. You can substitute or add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just make sure to chop them finely and keep the total volume similar for the best results.
What If I Don’t Have Spring Roll Wrappers?
No problem! You can use rice paper wrappers instead, which will give a slightly different texture but still tasty results. Just make sure to soak them in warm water for a few seconds until they’re pliable, then fill and roll as you would with spring roll wrappers.
Can I Make These Spring Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the spring rolls up to a day in advance. Just cover them with a damp paper towel and then seal them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just air fry them right from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to cooking time if needed.
How to Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Keep any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes or until heated through and crispy again!
