Air fryer spring rolls are a healthier, quicker, and less messy version of the traditional deep-fried spring rolls. These crispy delights bring the best of both worlds: the crispy texture that everyone loves, with a healthier cooking method that doesn’t require soaking in oil. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or preparing a snack for a family gathering, crispy air fryer spring rolls can be made with a variety of fillings. The best part? You can get them golden-brown and crisp with a fraction of the oil, all thanks to the power of your air fryer.
In this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know about making perfect crispy air fryer spring rolls, from the ingredients and preparation to tips on getting the perfect crunch. We’ll even dive into the differences between spring rolls and egg rolls and how you can customize the filling to suit your preferences.
What Are Spring Rolls and Egg Rolls?
You may have noticed that spring rolls and egg rolls are often mentioned interchangeably, but they are actually two distinct dishes. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Spring Rolls: These are typically made with a thin, crispy rice wrapper and are usually served fresh or lightly fried. They are popular in various Asian cuisines, especially in Chinese and Vietnamese cooking. Spring rolls can be filled with vegetables, shrimp, or pork, and they are often dipped in a tangy sauce.
Egg Rolls: The Americanized version of spring rolls, egg rolls are made with a thicker, dough-based wrapper that contains egg. This gives them a chewier texture and a more substantial crunch when deep-fried.
Differences:
- Wrapper: Spring rolls use a thinner rice or wheat wrapper, while egg rolls use a thicker dough-based wrapper that contains egg.
- Texture: Spring rolls are light and crisp, while egg rolls are thicker and crunchier.
- Filling: Both can be filled with vegetables or meat, but egg rolls often feature a more substantial filling, including pork, shrimp, or chicken.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Making crispy air fryer spring rolls is simpler than you might think! You can customize your filling to suit your tastes, but the base ingredients for a traditional spring roll are relatively the same. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Ingredients:
- Oil: A little oil is essential for a crispy texture. You can use vegetable oil, sesame oil, or even avocado oil.
- Sesame Seeds: Optional, but adding toasted sesame seeds can give your spring rolls an extra layer of flavor and a nice crunch.
- Ground Pork: This is the most common meat used in spring rolls. You can also use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Coleslaw Mix: Pre-shredded cabbage and carrots make a great filling base. It’s quick and easy, saving you prep time.
- Green Onions and Garlic: These provide the aromatic flavors that will enhance your filling.
- Spices: A dash of onion powder, ground ginger, and black pepper adds a bit of flavor kick.
- Soy Sauce: This gives your filling a savory umami flavor. You can use tamari if you prefer a gluten-free option.
- Spring Roll Wrappers: Thin, crispy wrappers are essential for making the classic crunch.
Optional Additions:
- Mushrooms: Adding finely chopped mushrooms can give your spring rolls a meaty texture, even when using ground turkey.
- Shrimp: For a seafood twist, shrimp pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Carrots or Bean Sprouts: Adding extra vegetables like carrots or bean sprouts can increase the crunch and freshness of your filling.
Recipe Notes
- Versatility: Air fryer spring rolls are highly customizable. You can switch out the proteins (e.g., ground pork, chicken, turkey, tofu) or add different vegetables depending on your preferences. You can also experiment with fillings like cheese or even create a vegetarian version.
- Meal Prep: These spring rolls are great for meal prepping. The filling can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the assembled rolls can be refrigerated for up to 12 hours before cooking. They can also be frozen and cooked directly from frozen, making them perfect for batch cooking.
- Air Fryer Tip: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. This allows for even cooking and crispiness. You may need to cook the spring rolls in batches if you’re making a large amount.
- Oil Usage: While air frying uses much less oil than traditional deep-frying, don’t skip the oil. A light brush or spray ensures a crispy, golden exterior.
- Serving Suggestions: These spring rolls pair well with various dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or hot mustard. Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or as part of a meal with sides like rice, noodles, or stir-fried vegetables.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – 1 Spring Roll)
- Calories: 231 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0.01g
- Cholesterol: 43mg
- Sodium: 267mg
- Potassium: 203mg
- Vitamin A: 37 IU
- Vitamin C: 1mg
- Calcium: 32mg
- Iron: 1mg
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- High in Protein: With 12g of protein per serving, air fryer spring rolls are a good source of lean protein, especially when made with lean meats or tofu.
- Healthy Fats: The use of healthier oils (like olive or avocado oil) and ingredients like sesame seeds contributes heart-healthy fats, especially monounsaturated fats.
- Lower in Calories: Compared to deep-fried spring rolls, these air fryer spring rolls have a significantly lower calorie count, making them a better option for those looking to cut back on calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich in Fiber: The inclusion of vegetables like cabbage and other veggies provides fiber, which is important for digestion and overall gut health.
- Moderate Sodium: While there’s a bit of sodium from soy sauce, you can opt for low-sodium soy sauce or tamari if you’re watching your salt intake.
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Creating the perfect crispy air fryer spring rolls is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to make delicious rolls at home:
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling
Start by heating a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add sesame seeds (if using) and cook until they are lightly browned. Then, add the ground pork (or other meat), breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, add the onion powder, ground ginger, black pepper, and soy sauce. Continue cooking until the mixture is fragrant and most of the liquid has evaporated.
Add the coleslaw mix, garlic, and green onions, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly. The filling should be moist but not too wet, as excess moisture can make the spring rolls soggy.
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls
Lay a spring roll wrapper on your work surface in a diamond shape (the corner facing you). Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the prepared filling onto the center of the wrapper in a straight line, parallel to your body.
To fold, wet the top corner of the wrapper with a little water, then fold it over the filling. Fold the sides of the wrapper inward to form an envelope, and then roll up tightly from the bottom, ensuring the filling is secure inside. Seal the top corner with a little water to keep it from unrolling.
3. Air Fry the Spring Rolls
Lightly spray your air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking. Place the spring rolls inside, making sure they’re not touching so they can cook evenly. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the spring rolls with a little oil to ensure a golden, crispy texture.
Cook at 380°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping the rolls halfway through. Check them towards the end of cooking and adjust the time if necessary. You’re aiming for a golden brown, crispy exterior.
4. Cool and Serve
Once your spring rolls are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to settle and the exterior to crisp up even more.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spring Rolls:
- Don’t Overfill: The key to a perfect spring roll is a balanced filling. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling for each roll. Overfilling can cause the wrapper to tear or the rolls to cook unevenly.
- Seal Properly: Make sure to seal the edges and top corner of each roll securely. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: To ensure even cooking, always preheat your air fryer for 3-5 minutes before placing the spring rolls inside.
- Don’t Crowd the Basket: Arrange the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. This ensures they cook evenly on all sides and get crispy.
- Use the Right Wrappers: Make sure you’re using authentic spring roll wrappers, which are thinner and crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
How to Store and Reheat Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Sometimes you’ll end up with extra spring rolls, or maybe you want to prepare them ahead of time. No worries! Storing and reheating your crispy air fryer spring rolls is simple and can keep them just as delicious as when they were first made.
Storing Leftover Spring Rolls
If you have leftover spring rolls, store them in an airtight container once they have cooled to room temperature. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to preserve them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Freezing Spring Rolls
To freeze uncooked spring rolls, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they’re fully frozen, transfer them into a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer.
To freeze cooked spring rolls, allow them to cool completely before storing them in a similar fashion. The key is to make sure they are completely dry to prevent ice crystals from forming, which could make them soggy when reheated.
Reheating Spring Rolls
For reheated crispy spring rolls, your air fryer is your best friend. Simply preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the spring rolls for about 4-5 minutes, checking to make sure they’re heated all the way through and crispy on the outside. If you froze your spring rolls, you may need to add a minute or two to the reheating time.
Avoid the Microwave
While it’s tempting to microwave your leftover spring rolls, the microwave will make the crispy exterior turn soggy. Stick to the air fryer or oven for the best results.
What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Crispy air fryer spring rolls are perfect for snacking or as part of a meal. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing an appetizer, or just looking for a quick bite, here are some great ideas for what to serve alongside your spring rolls:
Dipping Sauces:
- Sweet and Sour Sauce: The classic pairing. Tangy and sweet, it balances the richness of the spring rolls.
- Thai Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce has a nice kick, with a mix of sweetness and spice.
- Chinese Hot Mustard: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this mustard adds a zesty kick to your spring rolls.
- Peanut Sauce: A creamy, nutty dip that complements the crunchy texture of the spring rolls.
Other Sides to Serve:
- Vegetable Fried Rice: A flavorful, easy side dish that goes perfectly with spring rolls.
- Szechuan Shrimp: If you’re looking for something spicy and satisfying, Szechuan shrimp pairs well with the crispiness of spring rolls.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Another great main dish option, this Chinese favorite features a combination of spicy and savory flavors that mesh beautifully with the fresh crunch of spring rolls.
Drinks to Pair:
- Iced Tea: A refreshing and light beverage that complements the crispness of the spring rolls.
- Saké: If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, try a chilled glass of saké alongside your spring rolls.
Variations of Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
One of the best things about air fryer spring rolls is how versatile they are. You can easily swap out ingredients to make your spring rolls fit your dietary needs, preferences, or what you have in your kitchen. Here are some ideas for different variations:
Vegetarian Spring Rolls
Skip the meat and load up on veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots. Add a little tofu for extra protein, and season with soy sauce and ginger for a flavorful vegetarian alternative.
Shrimp Spring Rolls
For a seafood twist, use shrimp as your protein. Cook the shrimp in the same way you would the ground pork, seasoning them with garlic, soy sauce, and spices. The result will be a crunchy, flavorful shrimp spring roll that’s perfect for seafood lovers.
Spicy Spring Rolls
If you like things spicy, add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of sriracha to your filling. You can also use spicy dipping sauces like Thai sweet chili sauce or serve the spring rolls with a tangy, spicy mustard.
Sweet Spring Rolls
Why not try a dessert version? Swap out the savory filling for a sweet one by adding chocolate chips, marshmallows, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. These sweet spring rolls can be a fun treat for kids or a unique dessert option.
Troubleshooting Your Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
Making the perfect crispy air fryer spring rolls can be easy once you know the right tricks. However, if you run into problems, here are some common issues and how to solve them:
1. Spring Rolls Are Not Crispy Enough
If your spring rolls don’t turn out as crispy as you’d like, make sure you’re using enough oil to coat them before air frying. Additionally, consider flipping the spring rolls halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. If they’re still not as crisp as you want, try increasing the temperature by 10-15°F and cooking for a few more minutes.
2. Filling Leaking Out
This can happen if you overfill the spring rolls or don’t seal the edges properly. Ensure you are only using a small amount of filling, and seal the edges tightly by wetting the wrapper with water before rolling. Double-check that the top corner is securely sealed before cooking.
3. Wrappers are Breaking
If your wrappers are tearing, it’s possible that they are too dry. Make sure you are using fresh wrappers and handling them gently. If you’re working with frozen wrappers, let them thaw completely before using. If necessary, lightly dampen the wrappers to make them more pliable before rolling.
Why Air Fryer Spring Rolls Are a Healthier Option
Air frying is a game-changer when it comes to cooking. Instead of deep-frying, where food is submerged in oil, the air fryer uses hot air to cook food with little to no oil. This means you get all the delicious crispiness without the excess fat. Here’s why air fryer spring rolls are a healthier option compared to traditional deep-fried spring rolls:
Reduced Oil Usage
When you deep-fry spring rolls, they absorb a lot of oil, making them high in fat and calories. Air frying, on the other hand, uses a fraction of the oil—sometimes just a spray or a light brush. This drastically reduces the fat content, making air fryer spring rolls a healthier choice.
Lower Calorie Count
Air frying results in a significant reduction in calories. While a deep-fried spring roll may contain over 200 calories, an air-fried version can have as little as 150-170 calories per roll, depending on the ingredients used. That’s a big difference, especially when you’re trying to enjoy a guilt-free snack or appetizer.
Better for Your Heart
Because air fryer spring rolls contain less oil, they also have less saturated fat—which is a contributor to heart disease. Using a healthy oil like olive or avocado oil in your air fryer is an even better choice for heart health. Air frying can also help to retain more nutrients in the vegetables used for your filling, making the dish a balanced option.
No Need for Messy Oil Cleanup
One of the biggest benefits of air frying is the lack of messy oil splatters. Traditional deep frying requires a lot of clean-up, and oil can get everywhere. With the air fryer, you don’t have to worry about this, and you get the same crispy result with far less mess and hassle.
Air Fryer Spring Rolls and Meal Prep
If you’re someone who loves meal prepping, crispy air fryer spring rolls are an excellent option to add to your repertoire. Here’s how you can incorporate them into your weekly meal prep:
Preparing Spring Rolls in Advance
Air fryer spring rolls are easy to make in bulk and store for later. You can make a large batch of the filling ahead of time and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. You can also roll the spring rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours before cooking. This makes them the perfect prep-ahead snack or appetizer.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
As mentioned earlier, air fryer spring rolls can also be frozen. After assembling the spring rolls, freeze them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, you can cook them straight from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. This is a great way to have homemade spring rolls ready whenever you need a quick meal or snack.
Using Spring Rolls for Meal Prep Bowls
Air fryer spring rolls also work wonderfully as a component in meal prep bowls. You can pair them with rice, quinoa, or noodles, along with a serving of sautéed veggies or a protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. This way, you can enjoy a balanced and easy-to-assemble meal throughout the week.
Frequently asked questions for Crispy Air Fryer Spring Rolls
1. Can I make these air fryer spring rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep these spring rolls in advance, prepare the filling and assemble the rolls. You can then cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked spring rolls by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing them for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, just pop them straight into the air fryer, and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
2. Can I use different wrappers for these spring rolls?
While traditional spring roll wrappers are commonly used, you can also try egg roll wrappers or even rice paper wrappers, depending on what you have available. Just note that different wrappers might result in slight texture variations, and the cooking time could vary slightly, so be sure to adjust accordingly.
3. How do I prevent the spring rolls from being soggy?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to drain any excess moisture from the filling before using it. Additionally, do not overfill the wrappers—aim for about 2 to 3 tablespoons of filling per roll. A light coating of oil (using a spray or brush) on both the spring rolls and the air fryer basket will help achieve that crispy, golden finish. If you’re reheating them later, make sure to reheat in the air fryer for that crispy texture.
4. Can I use a vegetarian or vegan filling for these spring rolls?
Absolutely! These air fryer spring rolls are highly customizable. You can swap the meat for tofu, tempeh, or even a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. For a more traditional vegetarian filling, use a mix of cabbage, carrots, and other fresh veggies, and ensure that your spring roll wrappers are vegan-friendly.
5. What sauces can I serve with these crispy spring rolls?
These spring rolls pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces! Some popular choices include:
- Sweet chili sauce: Adds a tangy and slightly sweet kick.
- Soy sauce: For a salty and savory option.
- Hot mustard: If you like a bit of spice and heat.
- Thai peanut sauce: For a creamy and rich option. Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite pairing!
