Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground pork (or your chosen meat) over medium-high heat until browned and fully cooked. Break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add Vegetables: Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, chopped mushrooms, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season: Stir in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare Wrappers: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner facing you (like a diamond shape).
- Add Filling: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper, slightly closer to the corner nearest to you.
- Roll: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Fold in the side corners and roll up tightly to form a cylinder. Seal the top corner with a little beaten egg to ensure it sticks.
- Repeat: Continue assembling the remaining egg rolls.
Step 3: Cook the Egg Rolls
For Frying:
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry Egg Rolls: Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain: Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
For Baking:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake: Lightly brush the egg rolls with oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are crispy and golden brown.
Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger (if using) until well combined.
- Serve: Serve the dipping sauce alongside the egg rolls for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Sealing Wrappers: Ensure that the egg rolls are sealed well to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Oil Temperature: Maintain the correct oil temperature for frying to ensure the egg rolls are crispy and not greasy.
- Freezing: Egg rolls can be frozen before frying. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Fry from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
Serving Suggestions
- With Side Dishes: Serve with fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- As Appetizers: These egg rolls are perfect for serving as appetizers at parties or gatherings.
These classic egg rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Crispy on the outside and filled with savory goodness, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy your homemade egg rolls with a flavorful dipping sauce!