Authentic Lumpia are tasty Filipino spring rolls filled with a mix of ground meat and veggies. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they make a perfect snack or appetizer!
Whenever I make Lumpia, I can’t help but share them with friends because they vanish quickly. They always ask for the recipe, but I just say it’s a family secret! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork: This is the star of the lumpia. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using ground chicken or turkey. A blend of ground pork and shrimp also offers a delightful flavor and texture.
Carrots: Fresh, finely chopped carrots add sweetness and crunch. If carrots are unavailable, consider using finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini as tasty alternatives.
Cabbage: Finely shredded cabbage gives a nice crunch and balances the flavors. You can swap in any leafy greens, like bok choy or bok choy cabbage, if needed.
Green Onions: These add a fresh flavor. If you’re out, regular onions can work as well, though they are more pungent. Or, just leave them out for a milder taste.
Sweet Chili Sauce: This is my go-to dipping sauce for lumpia! If you don’t have it, you can mix soy sauce with a bit of sugar and red pepper flakes for a homemade version.
How Do You Roll Lumpia Effectively?
Rolling lumpia can seem tricky at first, but with a little practice, you’ll get the hang of it!
- Lay the wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling at the bottom corner.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then tuck in the sides snugly to keep all the filling secure.
- Roll tightly towards the top until you reach the opposite corner, then dab some water or egg wash on the tip to seal it.
- Practice makes perfect! Don’t worry if the first few aren’t perfect; they’ll still taste great!
How to Make Authentic Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground pork (or a mix of pork and shrimp)
- 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For Assembly:
- 1 package lumpia wrappers (approximately 20-25)
- Oil for frying
- Sweet chili sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes to prepare the filling and roll the lumpia, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for frying. In total, you’ll need about 50 minutes to get these tasty treats ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork (or shrimp), finely chopped carrots, shredded cabbage, chopped green onions, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until the ingredients are well blended.
2. Assemble the Lumpia:
Take a lumpia wrapper and lay it on a flat surface with one corner facing you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto the lower section of the wrapper. Now, fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in both sides. Roll tightly to form a spring roll shape and seal the edge with a bit of water or egg wash. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until you’ve made all your lumpia.
3. Fry the Lumpia:
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the lumpia in batches, making sure you don’t overcrowd the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the lumpia to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hot lumpia with sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy this delicious and crispy treat with family and friends!
Can I Make Lumpia with Different Proteins?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or even a mix of shrimp and pork if you prefer. Just ensure whatever protein you use is finely chopped or ground to ensure it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.
Can I Prepare Lumpia Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the lumpia a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to cover them with a damp cloth or plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the wrapped lumpia on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to make them crispy again. You can also use an air fryer for a quicker option!
Can I Bake Lumpia Instead of Frying Them?
Yes, you can bake lumpia for a lighter version! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the lumpia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush them lightly with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Enjoy a healthier take on this delicious dish!
