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Delightful Air Fryer Spring Rolls: A Crispy Treat for All Occasions

Spring rolls, with their delicate wrapper and deliciously varied fillings, are a popular dish enjoyed by many around the world. Traditionally deep-fried, these tasty parcels are often a guilty pleasure due to their indulgence in oil and fat. However, with the rise of health-conscious cooking methods, the air fryer has become a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy perfectly crispy spring rolls without the excess grease. In this article, we’ll explore how to create scrumptious air fryer spring rolls that will impress your family and friends, all while promoting a healthier lifestyle.

What Makes Air Fryer Spring Rolls Special?

Air fryer spring rolls provide the crunch and texture you crave, but they do so by using significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. This results in a lighter dish that retains all the flavours while being kinder to your waistline. The air fryer circulates hot air around the food, creating a crispy exterior that’s hard to resist, making these spring rolls a wonderful addition to any meal or as a standalone snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare air fryer spring rolls, you will need:

• For the Wrappers:

  • 10-12 spring roll wrappers (available at most supermarkets or Asian grocery stores)

• For the Filling:

  • 200g shredded cabbage (white or red)
  • 100g carrots, julienned
  • 100g bean sprouts (optional)
  • 2 spring onions, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional protein: cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu (about 100g, finely chopped)
• For the Egg Wash:
  • 1 egg, beaten (or a plant-based alternative for a vegan option)

Instructions for Making Air Fryer Spring Rolls

1. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
   • Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and any protein you desire. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
   • Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper, and mix well. Remove the filling from heat and allow it to cool slightly.

2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:

   • Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you. Place a tablespoon of the vegetable filling near the corner closest to you.
   • Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll the spring roll away from you, keeping it tight. Seal the end with a little beaten egg wash or a drop of water.
   • Repeat this process until all the filling is used up.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (about 350°F) for around 5 minutes.

4. Cooking the Spring Rolls:

   • Arrange the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other. Brush them lightly with a little oil, which will help achieve a golden colour.
   • Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye on them; cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once cooked, remove the spring rolls from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot with a dipping sauce such as sweet chilli, soy sauce, or homemade peanut sauce for an extra flavour boost.

Tips for the Perfect Air Fryer Spring Rolls

• Experiment with Fillings: The beauty of spring rolls lies in their versatility. Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or even avocado. You can also get creative with your protein choices.

• Avoid Overfilling: It’s tempting to pack in generous amounts of filling, but overstuffing can lead to tears in the wrapper and uneven cooking.

• Keep them Moist: If not cooking immediately, cover the assembled spring rolls with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

• Batch Cooking: Consider making a larger batch and freezing them before cooking. Place the uncooked rolls in a single layer on a baking tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Air fryer spring rolls are a delightful and healthier alternative to the traditional fried versions. With their satisfying crunch and tailored fillings, they make for a perfect snack, appetiser, or party dish. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply indulging in a tasty treat during a quiet night in, these air fryer spring rolls are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients and start rolling your way to a deliciously crisp creation!

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