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These crispy lumpia bring back memories of my grandmother's kitchen. I've spent years perfecting her recipe for these Filipino spring rolls filled with juicy pork and fresh vegetables. They disappear instantly at every family gathering and leave everyone asking for more.
The Heart of Filipino Cooking
In my kitchen these lumpia or lumpiang Shanghai as we call them are a weekly staple. The secret lies in just four main ingredients seasoned simply with soy sauce and pepper. This recipe comes from countless cooking sessions with my mother learning the authentic way to create these crispy delights.
Inside The Roll
- The filling can be ground pork chicken beef or shrimp mixed with garden fresh vegetables I love adding carrots for sweetness
- Those paper thin wrappers turn magically crispy when fried substitute with spring roll wrappers if needed
- We make both fresh uncooked rolls with peanut sauce and these golden fried ones my personal favorite
What You Need
- Fresh ground pork from my local butcher gives the best flavor
- Crisp cabbage shredded fine sometimes I sneak in extra carrots
- Delicate lumpia wrappers kept moist under a damp cloth
- Good soy sauce brings everything together
- Farm fresh eggs to bind it all
Let's Roll
- Start With The Wrapper
- Cut squares in half cover with damp cloth while you work
- Mix With Love
- Combine pork cabbage garlic ginger soy sauce seasonings and eggs until just mixed
- Rolling Magic
- Place wrapper add filling roll tight seal with water repeat until done
- Fry to Gold
- Heat oil fry until crispy golden serve with sweet and tangy sauce
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My Kitchen Secrets
- Keep those wrappers from drying out with a damp cloth trust me on this one
- Chop that cabbage super fine for the perfect bite
- Try them in the air fryer for a lighter version still crispy
- Make extra freeze them raw perfect for unexpected guests
Sauce Stories
My family's favorite dip combines tangy vinegar sweet sugar and rich ketchup. But the real treat is banana ketchup a Filipino classic made with ripe bananas and spices. One taste and you'll understand why we love it so much.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make lumpia ahead and freeze them?
Yes, freeze uncooked lumpia in single layer then store in freezer bags for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes cook time.
- → Can I use the air fryer instead of frying?
Yes, cook at 400°F for 7-9 minutes (longer if frozen) for a healthier, crispy result.
- → How do I keep the wrappers from tearing?
Keep wrappers covered with damp paper towel while working. Thaw properly if frozen and ensure they're at room temperature.
- → Can I use different meat or make them vegetarian?
Ground chicken, beef or shrimp work well. For vegetarian versions, use finely chopped vegetables and mushrooms.
- → What's the best dipping sauce?
Sweet and sour sauce or banana ketchup are traditional. Sweet chili sauce also works well.