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Air Fryer Spring Rolls: A Crispy Delight with Less Guilt

Spring rolls are a beloved snack across various cultures, offering a delicious combination of crispy textures and savoury fillings. Traditionally deep-fried, they can sometimes be a tad too indulgent for the health-conscious consumer. However, the advent of the air fryer has revolutionised the way we prepare these delightful snacks, allowing us to enjoy them with less oil and fewer calories. In this article, we explore the magic of air fryer spring rolls, including a simple recipe to get you started.

What are Spring Rolls?

Originating from Asia, spring rolls come in various forms, depending on the region and personal taste. Typically, they consist of a delicate pastry filled with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, meat, or seafood. Wrapped in a thin rice or wheat wrapper, they are often served with dipping sauces that complement their flavours.

Why Choose an Air Fryer?

Air fryers have quickly become a kitchen staple for many home cooks, thanks to their ability to mimic the crispiness of deep frying with significantly less oil. By circulating hot air around the food, air fryers can achieve a crunchy exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender. This cooking method not only reduces the calorie count but also makes for a more straightforward and less messy cooking experience.

Basic Ingredients for Air Fryer Spring Rolls

To make your own air fryer spring rolls, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:

For the Wrappers:

• Spring roll pastry or rice paper (available in most supermarkets)

For the Filling:

• 200g shredded vegetables (such as carrots, cabbage, and bell peppers)
• 100g cooked protein (tofu, prawns, chicken, or any of your preference)
• 2-3 spring onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Egg Wash:

• 1 beaten egg (or a plant-based alternative for a vegan option)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine your shredded vegetables, protein, spring onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well and set aside.

2. Assemble the Spring Rolls

Take a spring roll wrapper and lay it flat on a clean work surface. Spoon a small amount of the filling mixture onto the wrapper, about 1-2 tablespoons, depending on the size of your wrapper.

Fold the sides of the wrapper inwards, then roll it tightly from the bottom up, similar to a burrito. Seal the edge with a dab of the beaten egg. Repeat this process until all your filling is used.

3. Air Fry the Spring Rolls

Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (350°F). Lightly spray the basket with oil or brush the spring rolls with a small amount of oil to enhance the crispiness.

Arrange the spring rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not touch. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.

Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

4. Serve

Once cooked, carefully remove the spring rolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve with your favourite dipping sauce, such as sweet chilli sauce, soy sauce, or a vinegar-based dip.

A Healthier Snack or Meal Option

Air fryer spring rolls are not only a fantastic appetizer but can also serve as a light meal. By varying the fillings, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences, whether vegetarian, vegan, or meat-lover.

Furthermore, making spring rolls at home allows for greater control over the ingredients, ensuring they are as healthy as possible while still being incredibly satisfying.

Conclusion

Air fryer spring rolls are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. With their crispy exterior and a variety of filling possibilities, they are sure to please every palate. So, dust off your air fryer and give this simple recipe a try – your tastebuds will thank you!

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