Perfect Egg Rolls

Perfect egg rolls are crispy, flavorful, and filled with a delicious combination of vegetables and protein. Here's a recipe for making homemade egg rolls:

Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken, pork, or shrimp (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For assembling the egg rolls:

• Egg roll wrappers (available at Asian grocery stores)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (as a sealant)
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
2. Add the julienned carrot, sliced cabbage, and bean sprouts to the skillet. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crispy.
3. If using cooked protein (chicken, pork, or shrimp), add it to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and oyster sauce. Pour the sauce over the vegetable mixture in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir-fry for another minute or two until the ingredients are well coated and the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
5. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place a spoonful of the cooled filling in the center of the wrapper.
6. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling. Then, fold in the two sides towards the center. Roll the wrapper tightly away from you, sealing the edge with the cornstarch-water mixture.
7. Repeat the process with the remaining egg roll wrappers and filling.
8. In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil for frying to a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). Make sure there is enough oil to fully submerge the egg rolls.
9. Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
10. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the fried egg rolls from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
11. Serve the perfect egg rolls hot with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as sweet chili sauce or soy sauce with a splash of vinegar.

Enjoy these homemade egg rolls as a delicious appetizer or as part of a meal. Customize the filling by adding or substituting ingredients to suit your taste preferences.