There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crispy shrimp and cabbage egg roll. The delightful crunch, the savory filling, and the burst of flavor can transport you to another place, much like the bustling family kitchen of my childhood. Growing up in a lively Mexican-American household in Asheville, North Carolina, I learned early on that food is not just about sustenance—it’s about sharing love, stories, and traditions. Today, in my Charleston kitchen, I continue that tradition with recipes like these egg rolls that bring together my passion for simple, delicious meals with a touch of creativity and care.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls

These egg rolls are a symphony of textures and flavors—crispy on the outside and packed with a savory shrimp and cabbage filling on the inside. They’re perfect for those nights when you want something a little different but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Inspired by my grandmother’s knack for creating magic from simple ingredients, these egg rolls are easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is a delightful way to share your love through food, just like we did in my family’s kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls

Gather these ingredients to embark on a culinary adventure that captures the essence of comfort and joy:

• 12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 4 green onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Vegetable oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the shrimp with finely diced mushrooms for a similar texture and umami flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (2 egg rolls):

• Calories: 280 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg

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Steps to Create Your Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to create these delightful egg rolls:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped shrimp, cabbage, carrots, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle the cornstarch over the mixture and toss to combine. This mixture is reminiscent of helping my abuela stir her pots, always following her senses.
2. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the corner, fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly. Moisten the top corner with water to seal.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (you can test this by dropping a small piece of wrapper in—it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the egg rolls, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. This step always reminds me of patience, a skill I honed during countless hours in the kitchen with my family.

Tips for Making the Best Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls

To ensure your egg rolls turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Ensure the filling is not too wet; excess moisture can make the wrappers soggy. If needed, drain the filling before assembling.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan while frying, as this can lower the oil temperature and result in greasy egg rolls.
• For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of fish sauce to the filling mixture.
• If you’re not a fan of frying, these egg rolls can also be baked at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These egg rolls are a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and sauces. Serve them with a simple soy dipping sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick. For a complete meal, pair them with a light salad or a bowl of my grandmother’s comforting sopa de fideo. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (though that’s rarely the case in my house), store the egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls?

The main ingredients for Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls?

The total time to make Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls?

Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Crispy Shrimp and Cabbage Egg Rolls may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Cooking these crispy shrimp and cabbage egg rolls is more than just preparing a meal—it’s about creating moments of joy and connection through food. Just as my grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our family gatherings, I hope these egg rolls bring warmth and happiness to your table. Remember, cooking is an act of love, creativity, and care, and with these egg rolls, you’re sure to share a little piece of that magic with everyone you serve. Happy cooking!