As soon as the oil starts to heat, an irresistible aroma fills the kitchen, and I can’t help but smile. This is the time of year when friends and family gather, sharing stories and laughter over delectable bites of crispy Lumpia Shanghai. These Filipino-style spring rolls are truly a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re welcoming guests for a festive celebration or simply indulging in a cozy family dinner at home.
The beauty of Lumpia Shanghai lies in its versatility—each bite showcases a perfectly seasoned filling wrapped in a light, crisp shell that might just transport you straight to the bustling streets of Manila. With the option to swap out ground pork for chicken, turkey, or even a medley of veggies, you can easily tailor this dish to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and create these delightful spring rolls that promise to add a touch of excitement to your next meal!
Why is Lumpia Shanghai a Must-Try?
Crispy, delightful goodness: These spring rolls are perfectly fried, delivering a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Endless customization: Tailor the filling to suit any dietary preference, from classic pork to vegetarian delights.
Quick and easy: Even novice cooks can whip these up in no time, making them an ideal choice for last-minute gatherings.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will relish these savory bites, making them a hit at every meal.
Perfect for sharing: Whether at parties or cozy dinners, Lumpia Shanghai brings people together to savor every delicious piece!
Lumpia Shanghai Ingredients
• Get ready to create amazing flavors!
For the Filling
- Ground Pork – The primary protein source that adds savory richness; substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Yellow Onion – Introduces a natural sweetness; shallots can be used for a milder taste.
- Scallions – Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor; if unavailable, add more chopped onion for extra taste.
- Carrot – Adds crunch and a touch of sweetness; finely chopped bell pepper serves as a great alternative.
- Garlic – Enhances overall flavor and aroma; garlic powder is a handy substitute in a pinch.
- Egg – Functions as a binding agent; replace with a flax egg for vegan options.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; feel free to swap with sea salt for a different flavor.
For the Wrappers
- Lumpia Wrappers – Provide the perfect structure for spring rolls; opt for gluten-free wrappers if needed.
For Frying
- Canola Oil – Ideal for frying to a crispy finish; vegetable oil can also be used.
For Dipping
- Dipping Sauce Options – Serve with banana ketchup, sweet chili sauce, or a mix of vinegar and soy sauce to match your preference.
Embrace the joy of making Lumpia Shanghai and delight in these irresistible spring rolls that are bound to be a new family favorite!
How to Make Lumpia Shanghai
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Thaw the wrappers.
Start by thawing the lumpia or brown spring roll wrappers if they are frozen. This ensures they’re pliable and easy to work with. -
Mix the filling.
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped yellow onion, scallions, grated carrot, and minced garlic. This aromatic mixture will add rich flavor to your filling. -
Add seasonings.
Incorporate the egg yolk, kosher salt, and black pepper into the vegetable mixture. Stir until well combined for an evenly seasoned filling. -
Combine with ground pork.
Gradually mix in the ground pork until everything is thoroughly combined. Your filling should have a slightly sticky texture, perfect for wrapping. -
Wrap the filling.
Prepare one wrapper at a time. Place about 1.5 tablespoons of filling at the bottom corner of the wrapper and roll it tightly, sealing the edge with egg white. -
Arrange on a sheet.
Transfer the filled rolls to a parchment-lined baking sheet, keeping them spaced apart to avoid sticking. -
Heat the oil.
In a skillet, heat canola oil to 330–350°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crispy exterior. -
Fry in batches.
Carefully fry the lumpia in small batches, flipping as necessary, until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. This should take about 5–7 minutes. -
Drain and serve.
Once fried, drain the rolls on a paper towel-lined rack to remove excess oil. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for a touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Lumpia Shanghai are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time while preparing meals. You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the ground pork with the vegetables and seasonings, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The wrappers can also be layered with parchment paper and refrigerated, ensuring they stay fresh until you are ready to wrap. For longer storage, freeze the un-fried lumpia. When ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. This way, you’ll enjoy crispy and delicious spring rolls just when you need them, making each meal a breeze to assemble!
What to Serve with Lumpia Shanghai?
Creating a memorable meal is easy when you have delightful accompaniments in mind to complement the flavors of your crispy spring rolls.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light and crisp green salad balances the rich, savory filling of Lumpia Shanghai with refreshing textures.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: The sweet and mildly spicy flavor enhances the lumpia, making every bite a delicious journey.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy, aromatic rice adds heartiness to your meal, soaking up the flavors from the dipping sauce wonderfully.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with garlic and a hint of soy, this dish echoes the savory tones in Lumpia, elevating your dining experience.
- Mango Salsa: The sweetness of fresh mango combined with lime creates a vibrant contrast that brightens up your plate.
- Pineapple Coleslaw: A tangy, fruity slaw adds crunch and zest, perfectly cutting through the richness of the fried spring rolls.
- Lemonade or Calamansi Juice: These refreshing drinks provide a citrusy zing that brightens the palate and refreshes after every crispy bite.
- Coconut Macaroons: For dessert, these chewy treats bring a delightful sweetness, making your meal end on a high note.
- Banana Ketchup: Pair this unique Filipino condiment along with Lumpia Shanghai for a sweet twist that is both traditional and delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Lumpia Shanghai
Fridge: Store cooked Lumpia Shanghai in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep them at room temperature while they cool before sealing to maintain texture.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze un-fried lumpia on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months and fried directly from frozen.
Reheating: To reheat fried lumpia, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the filling and wrappers in advance, then assemble and freeze. This way, you’ll have delicious Lumpia Shanghai ready to fry when the craving strikes!
Expert Tips for Lumpia Shanghai
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Oil Temperature Check: Ensure your oil is hot enough by testing with a small piece of wrapper. Proper heat is crucial for that crispy exterior!
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Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to avoid steaming; overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy lumpia. This ensures even crisping for your Lumpia Shanghai.
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Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the wrappers tightly with egg white, preventing the filling from leaking during frying.
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Freezing Made Easy: For future gatherings, freeze un-fried lumpia on a baking sheet, then transfer to a bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding extra frying time as needed.
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Spice It Up: Feel free to add spices like cayenne or diced chilies to the filling for an extra kick!
Lumpia Shanghai Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Lumpia Shanghai and personalize it to your liking!
- Ground Chicken: Swap the pork for ground chicken for a lighter option without compromising flavor.
- Vegetarian Delight: Use a mixture of finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, and tofu for a hearty vegetarian filling.
- Lean Turkey: Ground turkey is another great alternative for those looking to cut down on fat while keeping the dish delicious.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the filling for those who appreciate a little heat.
- Holiday Twist: Incorporate diced water chestnuts and small shrimp for an extra-special filling that captures a festive vibe.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: Use gluten-free spring roll wrappers instead of traditional lumpia wrappers for a gluten-free treat.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to brighten up the filling and add aromatic flair.
- Crunch Factor: Mix in some crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds for added texture and a delightful nutty flavor.
Each of these variations promises to elevate your Lumpia Shanghai experience, making it uniquely yours! Enjoy the journey of flavors as you roll up and savor each delicious bite.
Lumpia Shanghai Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting lumpia wrappers?
Choose wrappers that are pliable and free from cracks. Ideally, they should be stored in the refrigerated section or at room temperature if unopened. If you’re using frozen wrappers, ensure to thaw them completely before use to avoid tearing during the wrapping process.
How do I store leftover Lumpia Shanghai?
Store cooked Lumpia Shanghai in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing to maintain their crispy texture. You can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 minutes to revive their crunch.
Can I freeze Lumpia Shanghai?
Absolutely! For freezing un-fried lumpia, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to fry, just drop them into hot oil directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time for best results.
What if my lumpia filling is too dry?
If your filling seems dry, try adding a bit more egg or a splash of soy sauce to help moisten it up. You can also include additional vegetables, such as grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers, which will add moisture and flavor. Aim for a filling that holds together yet is not overly wet.
Are Lumpia Shanghai suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! Lumpia Shanghai can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. You can use gluten-free wrappers to accommodate gluten sensitivities, and replace ground pork with ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any sauces served alongside are also gluten-free if catering to that need.
How can I add spice to my Lumpia filling?
To spice things up, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your filling mixture. Another great option is to mix in some sriracha or chili oil for an extra kick. Spice is a personal preference, so feel free to adjust based on your heat tolerance!
Delicious Lumpia Shanghai: Crispy Filipino Spring Rolls Made Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw the lumpia wrappers if they are frozen.
- In a bowl, mix the chopped yellow onion, scallions, grated carrot, and minced garlic.
- Incorporate the egg yolk, kosher salt, and black pepper into the vegetable mixture.
- Gradually mix in the ground pork until everything is thoroughly combined.
- Prepare one wrapper at a time and place filling at the bottom corner, rolling tightly and sealing with egg white.
- Transfer the filled rolls to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Heat canola oil in a skillet to 330–350°F.
- Fry the lumpia in batches until golden brown, about 5–7 minutes.
- Drain the rolls on a paper towel-lined rack and serve warm.