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Spring rolls

⏱ 40 min🍳 15 min👤 2 pp★★★★☆

Today we are taking you on an adventure to the culinary specialties of Asia: we’re going to make something tasty and delicious - the famous and much-appreciated chun juan, or spring rolls, a dish of traditional Cantonese (Chinese) cuisine. If you happen to go on a trip to China or read a book on Chinese cuisine, you'll find that these delicious rolls exist in many different variants. In China they belong to the tradition of dim sum, that is, what we might call bite-sized snacks: those little savoury morsels that you eat at all hours of the day when peckish, with some lovely china tea. Walking through the streets of Chinese cities it’s easy to find vendors specializing in making only these spring rolls. Are you ready to give an oriental flavour to your cooking?

Ingredients

Nutritional values 520 kcal / serving
Protein
10g
Carbohydrates
58g
Fat
28g
Fiber
2g

* approximate values per serving

Information
40 minutes Preparation time
15 minutes Cooking time
Serves 2 persons
★★★★☆ Hard

Preparation

Prepare the dough for the wrapping for the rolls, mixing eggs, flour, cornflour and water. Pull through a pasta maker and divide the dough into pieces of 10x6 cm. Prepare the filling: cut all the vegetables into julienne strips and sauté in a wok with sesame oil. Add salt and a little sugar. When they are almost done, add the soy sauce and a pinch of cumin. Transfer the filling to a bowl and proceed to fill the rolls, then seal them by rolling the dough forward, closing the sides inward, and turning them again (see photos). Heat 1 litre of vegetable oil in a wok and fry the rolls until they are nicely browned. Serve with sweet and sour sauce (traditional Chinese) and soy sauce.

Tips
To prevent your spring rolls from opening during cooking, brush some water and flour on the edges of the dough.
Trivia
Although the spring rolls are mainly known as an important part of Chinese cuisine, in fact they can also be found in the kitchens of Vietnam, Indonesia and Cambodia.

Step by step

Ingredients
Ingredients
**Click on the photos to access full step by step!

Additional information

Spring Rolls with Mixed Vegetable Filling

One of the most appreciated variations of spring rolls is the one that features a rich filling of mixed vegetables. To achieve an even tastier dish, you can add carrots, cabbage, celery, onions, bean sprouts, and mushrooms. The preparation begins with creating the wrapping dough, which is made by mixing eggs, flour, starch, and water. Once the filling is prepared, the vegetables are sautéed in a wok with sesame oil, salt, and sugar to enhance their flavor. Soy sauce and a light sprinkle of cumin complete the dish, making the rolls not only appetizing but also rich in nutrients. These spring rolls with mixed vegetable filling are perfect as an appetizer or main course for a light and flavorful dinner.

Chinese Spring Rolls with Soy Sauce

The traditional preparation of Chinese spring rolls involves the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, with particular attention to the cooking technique. In this variation, the filling is prepared using a mix of fresh vegetables, which are sautéed in a wok to preserve their crunchiness and flavor. The addition of soy sauce enriches the dish, giving it an authentic and aromatic taste. The rolls are then fried in sunflower oil, which makes them golden and crispy on the outside, while the inside remains soft and flavorful. Served with a side of soy sauce, Chinese spring rolls are a true journey into Eastern flavors, perfect for those who love Asian cuisine.

Light Spring Rolls without Frying

For those who desire a lighter version of spring rolls, it is possible to prepare a variant without frying. In this preparation, the rolls are baked instead of fried, significantly reducing the fat content. Using the same dough made with eggs, flour, and starch, the vegetable filling is seasoned with sesame oil and soy sauce, but without the addition of sugar. After filling the dough, the rolls are placed on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and baked until golden. This light version retains the fresh flavors of the vegetables and offers a healthy alternative, ideal for those following a controlled diet without sacrificing taste.

Nutritional Benefits of Spring Rolls and Calories

Spring rolls are a dish rich in fresh vegetables, which provide numerous health benefits. Carrots, for example, are an important source of beta-carotene, which contributes to eye health and the immune system. Bean sprouts, on the other hand, are rich in protein and fiber, useful for digestion. Thanks to the variety of vegetables used, this dish offers a significant supply of vitamins and minerals. In terms of calories, a baked spring roll contains about 70-80 calories, making it a light and nutritious option for a balanced meal. By choosing fresh, quality ingredients, spring rolls can be an excellent addition to a healthy and varied diet.

Can Leftover Spring Rolls be Stored?

Yes, spring rolls can be stored if there are leftovers. It is advisable to place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they can stay fresh for 2-3 days. If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them before cooking. In this case, make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. When you are ready to enjoy them, simply cook them directly from the freezer, slightly increasing the cooking time. This practice is ideal for always having a tasty and quick dish on hand, perfect for last-minute dinners or quick lunches.