Filipino Crispy Rolls

If you’ve ever had Filipino Crispy Rolls, you know how addictive they can be. These golden, bite-sized treats are packed with flavorful fillings wrapped in a thin, crispy shell that gives a satisfying crunch with every bite. Whether they’re stuffed with seasoned meat, fresh vegetables, or a combination of both, these rolls are the ultimate finger food that’s perfect for any occasion.

Filipino Crispy Rolls, also known as lumpia or lumpiang shanghai, are a staple at family gatherings, celebrations, and even casual weeknight dinners. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and even easier to devour! Once you take that first crunchy bite, the explosion of savory goodness inside keeps you coming back for more. Serve them with a side of sweet chili sauce, vinegar dip, or garlic sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing snack that’s impossible to resist.

Growing up, Filipino Crispy Rolls were a must-have at every family celebration. I remember helping my mom in the kitchen, carefully placing the filling on each wrapper and rolling them tightly so they wouldn’t burst while frying. She had a secret trick—brushing the edges with a little water to make sure they sealed perfectly.

The best part was watching them fry, turning golden brown and crispy. I’d hover by the stove, waiting impatiently for the first batch to cool just enough for me to grab one. Dipped in sweet chili sauce, they were pure bliss—crispy on the outside, flavorful and juicy on the inside. That crunch and the savory filling instantly transported me to some of the happiest moments of my childhood.

Even now, I make these Filipino Crispy Rolls for my family, and they’re always a hit. I’ve tried different fillings over the years—ground pork, chicken, shrimp, and even veggies—but the classic version will always have a special place in my heart.

Why people will like Filipino Crispy Rolls

• Crispy and Satisfying – The perfect balance of crunch and flavor.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
• Customizable Fillings – Mix and match proteins and veggies.
• Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for parties, potlucks, and gatherings.
• Pairs with Dips – Goes well with sweet chili, vinegar, or garlic sauce.

Health benefits of Filipino Crispy Rolls

These crispy rolls aren’t just delicious—they offer some health perks too:

• Protein-Packed – Great source of lean protein when filled with ground meat or shrimp.
• Veggie-Rich Option – Add a variety of fresh vegetables for extra fiber and vitamins.
• Low in Carbs (with Alternative Wrappers) – Use rice paper or egg roll wrappers for a lighter version.
• Good Source of Iron – Meat-filled rolls provide a boost of essential minerals.
• Portion-Controlled – Easy to enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced meal.

Best occasions to enjoy Filipino Crispy Rolls

Filipino crispy rolls are perfect for so many occasions:

• Family Gatherings – A must-have at parties and celebrations.
• Holiday Feasts – A festive addition to any spread.
• Snack Time – Great for a quick, satisfying bite.
• Potlucks and Picnics – Easy to transport and serve.
• Game Night Treats – A crunchy, flavorful finger food everyone will love.

Chef’s Notes: Filipino Crispy Rolls

• Maintain Oil Temperature – Keep the oil at a consistent medium heat (around 350°F) to achieve the ideal golden crisp without making the rolls greasy.
• Perfect Pork Texture – Ensure the ground pork is fully browned and crumbled before combining it with the vegetables to develop rich, deep flavors.
• Prevent Overcrowding – Fry 3 to 4 rolls at a time to maintain consistent heat and avoid soggy rolls. Adjust the oil temperature slightly between batches for optimal frying.
• Wrap Securely – Tightly wrap the filling with the spring roll wrappers to prevent bursting during frying. Use a dab of water on the edges to ensure a secure seal.
• Customize the Filling – Add julienned bell peppers, finely sliced water chestnuts, or extra cilantro for a vibrant crunch and flavor boost.
• Drain Thoroughly – Place fried rolls on paper towels to drain excess oil, ensuring they stay crispy.
• Pair with Dipping Sauce – Serve with sweet chili sauce or sweet and sour sauce for a complementary contrast.
• Reheat Properly – To maintain the crispiness, reheat leftovers in an oven or air fryer instead of a microwave.

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Filipino Crispy Rolls

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: AppetizerCuisine: FilipinoDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

rolls

Prep time

40

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories

350

kcal

Resting Time

5

minutes

Total time

1

hour 

10

minutes

Get ready to be wowed by these irresistibly crunchy and savory Filipino Crispy Rolls. This recipe brings together finely ground pork, crisp vegetables, and a medley of spices wrapped in delicate spring roll skins. Expertly prepared to guarantee a perfect fry every time, these rolls are an ideal show‐stopping appetizer or side dish. With a nod to tradition and a flair of modern ease, these crispy delights capture the essence of home-cooked comfort with a celebrity chef’s panache. Experience a burst of flavor in every bite while impressing guests at dinner parties or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

• Protein Base

• 1 lb ground pork well crumbled (or opt for ground turkey as a lean alternative)

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil ideal for an initial quick sauté

• Vibrant Vegetables

• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion adding a mellow sweetness

• 2 cloves garlic gently crushed for full-bodied aroma

• 1/2 cup julienned carrots ensuring a slight crunch

• 1/2 cup sliced scallions for a fresh, vibrant note

• 1/2 cup finely shredded white cabbage offering a crisp texture

• 2 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro optional for a burst of herby brightness

• Seasoning Essentials

• 1 tsp kosher salt to perfectly elevate the flavors

• 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper for a hint of heat

• 1 tsp garlic powder deepening the savory base

• 1 tsp soy sauce lending an umami richness

• Wrapping Frying

• 30 pieces spring roll wrappers delicate and paper-thin

• 2 cups vegetable oil adjusted as needed for deep frying

• Alternative Ingredients

• Instead of ground pork try ground turkey for a leaner version.

• Use spring roll wrappers in place of lumpia wrappers if unavailable.

• Swap vegetable oil with canola oil for a milder flavor.

• For a gluten-free twist replace soy sauce with tamari.

• Cilantro can be omitted if not preferred or substituted with flat-leaf parsley.

Directions

• Filling Preparation – Begin by heating 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large, heavy skillet over high heat. Sauté the ground pork for about 6 minutes until it browns evenly and crumbles nicely; then transfer the meat to a clean bowl, leaving a thin film of oil in the pan. This step ensures the meat develops a deep flavor before combining with the vegetables.
• Vegetable Sauté Seasoning – In the remaining oil, add the diced onion and crushed garlic. Sauté over medium-high heat for approximately 2 minutes until the aroma becomes irresistible and the onions soften slightly. Return the browned pork to the skillet; mix in the julienned carrots, sliced scallions, shredded cabbage, and optionally, the chopped cilantro. Sprinkle in the kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and soy sauce, stirring continuously for another 3 minutes so every ingredient is well coated. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes before assembly.
• Assembly Frying – Lay out a spring roll wrapper on a smooth surface and place roughly 3 heaping tablespoons of the cooled filling diagonally near one corner, leaving about an inch and a half gap on the sides. Fold the wrapper’s edge over the filling, tuck in both short ends, and roll securely; moisten the remaining edge with a tiny bit of water to seal the wrap. Repeat to form all 30 rolls. Heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat; carefully add 3 or 4 rolls at a time, ensuring the seams face down, and fry for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn a beautifully golden brown. Drain the fried rolls on paper towels and serve immediately, perhaps with a vibrant sweet chili dipping sauce. Optionally, adjust the oil temperature slightly between batches to maintain consistent crispiness.

Equipment

• chef’s knife
• cutting board
• Cast Iron Skillet
• Mixing bowls
• measuring cups and spoons

Notes

• For best results, maintain a steady medium oil temperature so that the wrappers become perfectly crisp without absorbing too much oil. Serve these rolls with a tangy sweet chili dipping sauce or a classic sweet and sour sauce for contrast. They pair beautifully with a light, refreshing salad or a serving of garlic fried rice to make a full meal. Feel free to add a handful of julienned bell peppers or finely sliced water chestnuts into the filling for extra crunch and a burst of color. Enjoy experimenting and delight in this fusion of traditional flavor with a modern twist!

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 350kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Potassium: 300mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 18g
• Vitamin A: 400IU
• Vitamin C: 15mg
• Calcium: 40mg
• Iron: 2mg

FAQs: Filipino Crispy Rolls

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