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Deep-Fried Vegetable Spring Roll

"Spring Roll Sensation—A Crispy Crunch Packed with Veggie Goodness."

Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll

(zaa choy ceon gyun)
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Originating from Jiangsu Province in China, these delicious spring rolls carry a deep historical and cultural significance. With their crispy exterior and flavorful vegetable filling, they have been beloved for generations in China and beyond. Initially symbols of spring and new beginnings, these rolls were traditionally crafted during the Spring Festival. Over time, they have become a popular choice for everyday meals, enjoyed as appetizers, snacks, or even as part of a main course. They hold a cherished place in many hearts, recalling memories of family gatherings, festive occasions, and relaxed moments.

6 servings

doable

90 mins

Ingredients you'll need

Cooking Tools for the task

Recipe in a nutshell

Start by rinsing and soaking dried shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms, and glass noodles in separate bowls of water until they’re fully rehydrated. Trim the shiitake mushroom stems, slice both mushroom types, and set aside the mushroom soaking water. Also, cut the Chinese chives and julienne the carrots. Drain the glass noodles, cutting any overly long strands. In a wok over medium-high heat, stir-fry the carrots, chives, shiitake mushrooms, and wood ear mushrooms in sesame oil for about two minutes. Add a half-cup of the mushroom soaking water and cook briefly, then season with oyster sauce, light soy sauce, pepper powder, and salt, thickening the mixture with cornstarch slurry. Once the liquid is nearly absorbed, add the glass noodles and mix well. Transfer the filling to a shallow bowl and refrigerate for at least an hour. To assemble, place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface, spoon two tablespoons of filling near one corner, roll it up once, fold in the sides, and seal the far edge with cornstarch slurry. Repeat with the remaining wrappers to make around 10–12 spring rolls. To fry, heat oil in a small pot. Fry the spring rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking until they’re golden brown, then remove and drain on paper towels. Your Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll is now ready to be served with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.

Beyond the recipe

ON WRAPPERS

Use fresh spring roll wrappers as frozen wrappers tend to get soggy. Either prepare the wrapper at home or use store-bought ones as long as they are fresh.

ON FILLINGS

Put your favorite vegetables as fillings, like cabbage, bell peppers, and scallions, but avoid overcrowding them. Stir-fry them before rolling them in the spring roll.

ON VARIATIONS

You may also include pork, chicken, prawns, or beef. When using a protein, use fewer vegetables to allow the protein to stand out. But do stir-fry before filling in the spring roll.

ON TECHNIQUE

For a healthier option, air-fr or bake the spring rolls. Lightly brush them with oil before cooking. With this method, the spring rolls will be less crispy, but they still taste great.

Recipe walkthrough

Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll

With their crispy exterior and flavorful vegetable filling, Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll have been beloved for generations in China and beyond.

PREP TIME

60 mins

COOK TIME

30 mins

READY IN

90 mins

Custom time

Refigetae for an hour

Ingredients

For the base:

  • 1 packet Spring Roll Wrappers
(fresh) (flour-based) (8-inch squares)
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch
(mix with 1 tbsp water)
  • 4 cups Vegetable Oil
(for deep-frying)

For the dipping sauce:

  • Sweet Chili Sauce

For the fillings:

  • 7 oz. Glass Noodles
(approx. 200g)
  • 7 oz. Chinese Chives
(approx. 200g) (2-inch pieces)
  • 3 nos. Carrots
(large) (julienned)
  • 12 nos. Shiitake Mushrooms
(dried) (thinly sliced)
  • 0.35 oz. Wood Ear
(approx. 10g) (thinly sliced)
  • 2 tbsp Light Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Sesame Oil
  • 1 tsp Pepper Powder
(black)
  • 1 tsp Salt
(adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch
(mix with 2 tbsp water)
RNibbles1

CUISNE

Chinese

COURSE

Appetizer

SERVINGS

Six

  1. Trimming the stems of the shiitake mushrooms speeds up the soaking process. 
  2. Do not oversoak the glass noodles else it will be become mushy.
  3. Too much moisture will affect the texture of the spring roll. Which means that after frying, it may not turn out crispy.
  4. A small pot will require less oil.
  5. Frying the spring roll in batches without overcrowding the pot will help to maintain the oil temperature.

Instructions

  1. Rinse the dried shiitake mushrooms and the wood ear gently under running water to remove any dirt or dust particles. Trim the stems of the shiitake mushrooms. 1
  2. Place them in separate bowls filled with warm water.
  3. Soak for at least 30 minutes to ensure they are fully rehydrated.
    Soak the glass noodles in lukewarm water for around 10 minutes. 2
  4. Meanwhile, cut the Chinese chives into 2-inch pieces and julienne the carrots.
  5. The glass noodles should be ready by then, so drain the water and cut any long strands shorter.
  6. Once the shiitake mushrooms and wood ear are dehydrated, gently squeeze out the water. Slice them and reserve the mushroom water for later use.
  7. In a wok over medium-high heat, add sesame oil, then carrots, Chinese chives, shiitake mushrooms, and wood ear. Stir-fry for 2 minutes.
  8. Now add the half cup of soaked mushroom water to the wok. Cook for a minute.
  9. Prepare two separate bowls of cornstarch slurry, one for the filling and the other for sealing the spring rolls.
  10. Add oyster sauce, light soy sauce, pepper powder, salt, and a bowl of the cornstarch slurry to the wok. Cook for another minute.
  11. When the liquid in the wok has almost dried out, add the glass noodles and mix well. 3
  12. Transfer the filling to a shallow bowl to cool. Refrigerate for at least an hour to make wrapping easier.
  13. To assemble the spring rolls, place a wrapper on a flat surface with a corner facing you.
  14. Spoon two spoonfuls of the mixture close to the corner, roll it once, fold the sides, and seal the far corner with cornstarch water.
  15. Repeat for all rolls. This recipe yields about 10–12 spring rolls.
  16. To fry the spring rolls, use a small pot and fill it with oil until it reaches a depth of 2 to 3 inches. 4
  17. Gradually heat the oil on medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 325 degrees (163 °C).
  18. Add the spring rolls gently, one by one, with a maximum of 2-3 at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pot. 5
  19. Roll them carefully in the oil for even cooking until they turn golden brown, then transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels.
  20. Enjoy the vegetable spring rolls with a side of sweet chili sauce.

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Nutrition at a glance

522kcal

CALORIES

per serving

24.2g

FAT

30.0%
0mg

CHOLESTEROL

0%
1114mg

SODIUM

48.4%
73.4g

CARBOHYDRATE

26.7%
6.3g

protein

12.6%
The nutritional values on standard recommended daily intakes from the FDA for a 2000-calorie diet. Fat: 78g, Cholesterol: 300mg, Sodium: 2300mg, Carbohydrate: 275g, Protein: 50g
At The Chinese Table, we aim to provide nutritional information as a useful reference for our readers. Nevertheless, we do not claim to be professional nutritionists, and the values provided are rough approximations. The true nutritional content of a recipe can fluctuate depending on the specific brands, types of ingredients, and serving sizes utilized. Various online tools may also produce different outcomes. For more accurate nutritional details, we suggest consulting a reliable source such as the USDA FoodData Central Nutrition Calculator, which enables you to enter your precise ingredients and quantities for the most reliable information.

If you're wondering

Absolutely, frozen spring roll wrappers can be used effectively for ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll’ when fresh ones aren’t accessible, though they do require a bit of extra care to ensure the best results. Here’s how to use them successfully and some important considerations to keep in mind:

  • Thawing: Before anything else, ensure that the frozen wrappers are fully thawed. Place them in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight rather than at room temperature, as thawing them gradually helps preserve their texture. Rapid thawing at room temperature can sometimes lead to uneven defrosting, which can result in portions of the wrapper becoming overly soft and sticky.
  • Handling and Moisture Management: Frozen wrappers can sometimes be a bit more delicate and may have a slight increase in moisture after thawing. To prevent the wrappers from becoming too wet, which might make them prone to tearing or hard to handle, gently separate each sheet and pat them with a paper towel if they feel too damp. This extra step helps maintain their texture and ensures they fry up crispy. If you find that they’re drying out during preparation, cover the unused wrappers with a slightly damp cloth to keep them pliable.
  • Filling and Rolling: Because frozen wrappers can be slightly more fragile, take extra care not to overfill them. Overfilling can make it difficult to roll them tightly and increases the risk of tearing. Place the filling near one edge of the wrapper, then roll carefully, tucking in the edges as you go for a compact roll. Using a dab of water on the edges before sealing can help secure them firmly, ensuring they hold together during frying.
  • Frying Considerations: Frozen wrappers may also have a different texture that can affect the frying process. Ensure your oil is hot (around 350°F/175°C) before frying, as this will help the wrappers crisp up quickly without absorbing too much oil. Fry in small batches to maintain a consistent oil temperature, which also helps avoid sogginess.
  • Alternative Option – Homemade Wrappers: If you’d like to try a homemade approach, you can use a pasta machine to roll out dough for fresh spring roll wrappers. This option allows for a slightly thicker or thinner wrapper depending on your preference, which may result in a spring roll with a customized texture. Although this process takes more time, it offers complete control over the wrapper’s thickness and texture.

In short, frozen wrappers are a convenient and practical option, especially with careful handling and a few extra steps to maintain their quality. With these tips, you can still achieve crisp, delicious ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll’ that are as satisfying as those made with fresh wrappers.

To keep the filling for ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll’ from becoming too watery, a few key steps will help you manage excess moisture and ensure crisp, intact rolls.

  • Draining and Squeezing Ingredients: When using ingredients like soaked shiitake mushrooms and wood ear mushrooms, which tend to hold a lot of water, it’s important to drain them thoroughly after soaking. Squeeze out any remaining liquid from these ingredients with gentle pressure before slicing. This reduces the moisture they release during cooking, helping maintain the filling’s consistency.
  • Stir-Frying Vegetables Correctly: When cooking vegetables for the filling, aim to stir-fry them briefly over medium-high heat until just tender-crisp. Avoid overcooking, as this can draw out excessive moisture from the vegetables, which may cause the filling to become watery once wrapped. Crisp vegetables will also help preserve the overall texture of the spring roll filling.
  • Cooling the Filling: Once cooked, transfer the filling mixture to a shallow dish to cool. Place it in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This cooling step firms up the filling and allows any remaining moisture to settle, making the filling easier to handle during wrapping. Cooling also helps prevent tearing or bursting in the wrappers, as a warm filling can soften the wrapper too much, particularly with frozen or delicate wrappers.
  • Using Starches: If the filling still appears too moist after cooling, lightly sprinkling a small amount of cornstarch or potato starch can help absorb excess moisture. Mix the starch evenly throughout the filling to prevent pockets of liquid from forming as the spring rolls fry.

By following these steps, your spring rolls will have a stable, flavorful filling that fries up crispy without leaking or bursting. These precautions ensure that each spring roll maintains its shape and crunch, making for a satisfying final dish.

To prevent filling spillage while frying ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll,’ there are several key techniques to help secure each roll and keep the contents neatly enclosed.

  • Avoid Overstuffing: One of the main causes of spillage is overfilling the wrapper. Use a modest amount of filling, typically 1 to 2 tablespoons depending on the wrapper size, to leave enough space for sealing and folding. This gives the filling room to expand slightly during frying without putting too much pressure on the wrapper, which could lead to leaks.
  • Use a Cornstarch Slurry for Sealing: To effectively seal the edges, make a slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and water until smooth. This acts as a natural “glue.” Brush the slurry along the edges of the wrapper just before folding the final corner to secure the roll. The slurry strengthens the seal and helps prevent the wrapper from unraveling or opening up in the hot oil.
  • Proper Folding Technique: As you begin to wrap, tightly fold the sides of the wrapper inward over the filling, keeping a snug hold to prevent any loose ends. Then, roll the wrapper firmly toward the final edge. Ensuring the sides are well folded helps contain the filling and prevents gaps where it might escape during frying.
  • Chilling Before Frying: For added security, you can refrigerate the wrapped spring rolls for about 15-20 minutes before frying. This helps the wrapper firm up around the filling, reinforcing the seal and reducing the chances of bursting due to heat expansion during frying.
  • Oil Temperature Control: Finally, make sure to fry the rolls at the correct temperature, around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too hot, it can cause the wrappers to blister and split open. If it’s too cool, the spring rolls may absorb excess oil, which can weaken the structure and lead to spills.

By following these steps, your spring rolls should stay securely wrapped, allowing the filling to cook evenly without leaking into the oil, resulting in perfectly crisp and intact rolls.

For making ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll,’ using the right amount of filling is crucial to ensure the rolls stay intact during frying. The suggested 2 tablespoons of filling work well for standard-sized spring roll wrappers (typically around 6–8 inches square). If your wrappers are larger, you may be able to add slightly more filling—about 2.5 to 3 tablespoons. However, for smaller wrappers, consider reducing to about 1.5 tablespoons to leave adequate space for secure folding and sealing. Since vegetable fillings can release moisture, especially after stir-frying, it’s essential to keep the amount moderate. A smaller portion ensures that the wrapper maintains a tight, well-sealed structure around the filling, even if moisture content varies. When assembling your first few rolls, it can be helpful to experiment by adding a bit more or less filling to find the ideal amount for your wrapper size and personal preference. Once you find a balance that works, stick to it for consistent results.

Yes, you can definitely prepare the filling for ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Roll’ in advance, which can even enhance the overall texture and flavor of the final dish. In fact, preparing the filling ahead of time offers several benefits:

  • Flavor Development: Allowing the filling to rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour (or up to a day) lets the flavors blend and intensify. This gives the spring rolls a more cohesive taste profile, as the seasoning and natural flavors of the ingredients meld together.
  • Easier Handling: A chilled filling is much easier to handle when wrapping, as it’s firmer and less likely to be too moist. If you prepare the filling in advance, refrigerating it in an airtight container for several hours or overnight will help prevent excess moisture from seeping into the wrappers, which can cause them to become soggy or tear during frying.
  • Time Efficiency: Preparing the filling a day ahead can streamline the cooking process. When it’s time to assemble and fry the spring rolls, you’ll save time by having the filling ready to go, allowing you to focus on wrapping and frying without interruption.

To store the filling, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh and be ready to use for up to 24 hours. Just give it a gentle stir before wrapping to ensure even distribution of any juices. By preparing the filling in advance, you set yourself up for smooth, efficient assembly and a tastier, more cohesive result with your spring rolls.

Yes, you can refrigerate assembled ‘Deep-fried Vegetable Spring Rolls’ if you plan to fry them within a few hours. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or tray, ensuring they don’t touch to avoid sticking. Lightly cover with plastic wrap to prevent drying, and refrigerate for up to 4–6 hours. Note that prolonged refrigeration may cause the wrappers to absorb moisture from the filling, making them softer and more prone to tearing during frying. For longer storage, freezing is ideal to preserve texture and quality. Arrange the spring rolls in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid (about 2–3 hours). Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh this way for up to a month. When ready to fry, you don’t need to fully thaw frozen spring rolls; simply let them sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to minimize oil splattering. Frying them while still slightly cold helps maintain shape and reduces moisture buildup on the wrappers.

Cel

Hey, I'm Celeste

In my Cantonese upbringing, the aroma of delicious food was ever-present. My childhood was shaped by the heart of Cantonese home cooking. This collection of recipes expands upon those cherished memories. Within these pages, I want to share the dishes that have shaped my passion for cooking, the timeless classics that still evoke warm feelings, and the innovative twists that keep Chinese cuisine vibrant and exciting.

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