Egg Rolls: Cheap, Easy, and Delicious!

The scent of sizzling oil and crispy wrappers always takes me back to my college days. Money was tight, but my friends and I craved something flavorful and satisfying. Egg rolls became our go-to—a blank canvas for whatever veggies and leftover proteins we could scrounge up. We’d gather in the cramped kitchen, a symphony of chopping and frying, fueled by laughter and the anticipation of that first crunchy bite. Those makeshift egg roll nights were more than just meals; they were memories in the making, a testament to the magic of simple ingredients and shared experiences.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Yields: 12-15 egg rolls
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (can be vegetarian/vegan)

Ingredients

• 1 (1 lb) package egg roll wrappers
• 1 (16 ounce) bag coleslaw mix
• 1 medium onion, diced
• Soy sauce (to taste)
• 3 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut)
• 1 egg

Equipment Needed

• Deep frying pan or large skillet
• Tongs
• Slotted spoon or spider strainer
• Small bowl
• Fork
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling: Heat the oil in a deep frying pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add the Coleslaw Mix: Add the entire bag of coleslaw mix to the pan with the onions. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and reduced in volume, approximately 5-7 minutes. If adding meat (such as leftover cooked pork, shrimp, or beef), stir it in now.
3. Season the Filling: Add soy sauce to taste. Start with a tablespoon and adjust according to your preference. Remember that soy sauce can be salty, so taste as you go. Mix well to ensure the flavor is evenly distributed. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork to create an egg wash. This will act as a sealant for the egg rolls.
5. Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface, positioning it so that one of the corners points toward you (like a diamond). Place about 2 heaping tablespoons of the cooled filling in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold and Roll: Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling. Then, fold the two side corners inward towards the center. Tightly roll the egg roll away from you, like rolling a burrito.
7. Seal the Egg Roll: Dab the final corner of the wrapper with the egg wash. Press firmly to seal the egg roll completely. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
8. Fry the Egg Rolls: Heat about 2-3 inches of oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan (fry in batches).
9. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
11. Cool and Serve: Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. They are best served warm.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the egg rolls is a common mistake. Too much filling can make them difficult to roll and prone to bursting open during frying. Stick to about 2 heaping tablespoons.
• Seal Tightly: A well-sealed egg roll is crucial. Make sure the egg wash covers the entire edge of the wrapper to prevent oil from seeping in.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil temperature consistent at 375°F (190°C). If the oil is too cool, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and become soggy. If the oil is too hot, they will brown too quickly on the outside and may not be cooked through on the inside.
• Freezing for Later: These egg rolls freeze beautifully. After assembling, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them directly from frozen, increasing the cooking time to 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
• Baking Option: For a healthier alternative to frying, you can bake the egg rolls. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with oil or egg wash and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these delicious egg rolls as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. They pair perfectly with soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, duck sauce, or any dipping sauce of your choice. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or some chopped green onions for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for a quicker option. Microwaving is not recommended, as it can make them soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (estimated)	% Daily Value*
Calories	150 kcal	8%
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	1g	5%
Cholesterol	15mg	5%
Sodium	200mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	2g	7%
Sugars	3g
Protein	3g	6%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Omit any meat and use a vegan egg roll wrapper to make this recipe completely vegetarian or vegan. Add more vegetables like shredded carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling.
• Spicy Egg Rolls: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Shrimp Egg Rolls: Replace some of the coleslaw mix with cooked, chopped shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Pork Egg Rolls: Add ground pork or shredded leftover roast pork to the filling for a heartier egg roll.
• Spring Roll Wrappers: While egg roll wrappers provide a crispier result, spring roll wrappers can be used as a lighter, healthier alternative (though the texture will be different).
• Gluten-Free Egg Rolls: Look for gluten-free egg roll wrappers, which are available at some specialty stores or online.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Be sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to prevent the wrappers from drying out.

Q: How do I prevent the egg rolls from sticking to the pan while frying?
A: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the egg rolls. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and cause the egg rolls to stick.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the egg rolls with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover egg rolls?
A: The best way to reheat leftover egg rolls is in the oven or air fryer. This will help them retain their crispiness.

Q: Can I use different vegetables in the filling?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables, such as carrots, mushrooms, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts.

Final Thoughts

These cheap and easy egg rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer, a satisfying side dish, or a fun snack, this recipe is sure to please. So gather your ingredients, get creative with the filling, and enjoy the process of making these crispy, flavorful treats. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make them your own! Share your creations and feedback, and consider pairing these egg rolls with a refreshing glass of iced green tea or a light Asian-inspired salad. Happy cooking!