How to Perfectly Fry Filipino Lumpias in an Air Fryer: A Healthier Twist

Are you ready to satisfy your taste buds with a delicious Filipino dish without the guilt? Lumpias, a popular Filipino dish similar to mini egg rolls, can be an excellent choice. Traditionally, lumpias are deep-fried, making them calorie-dense. However, with the rise in air fryer popularity, we can now achieve that crispy texture without sacrificing our health. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to make Lumpia Shanghai using an air fryer, presenting a healthier and equally delectable alternative.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make Lumpia Shanghai using an air fryer, you will need the following ingredients and tools:

1 pound ground beef 1 pound ground pork 1.5 pounds shrimp 1 cup green onions 1/2 cup yellow onions, chopped 1/2 cup carrots, shredded 1 can water chestnuts, finely chopped 8 cloves garlic, peeled and minced 1 cup soy sauce 1 tsp sesame oil 1/2 tsp kosher salt or to taste black pepper to taste 1 package spring roll wrappers Hot air fryer preheated to 390°F (200°C) Air fryer basket Chili sauce (for serving) Tongs (for handling heated food)

Step-by-Step Guide

The process of making Lumpia Shanghai is relatively straightforward. Follow these simple steps:

Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, shrimp, green onions, yellow onions, carrots, water chestnuts, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined. Prepare Wrappers: Separate the spring roll wrappers and lay one flat on a level surface. Place one tablespoon of the meat mixture at the side closest to you and spread it horizontally along the length of the wrapper. Roll up the wrapper, folding in the corners to seal it. Repeat for all remaining wrappers. Cooking: Place the rolls in the preheated air fryer basket. Ensure they are not touching, as they will crisp up during cooking. Cook for 10 minutes at 390°F (200°C). Shake the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. Finishing Touch: Using tongs, carefully remove the cooked lumpias from the basket and serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chili sauce.

Tips and Variations

To enhance your cooking experience:

Adjust for Altitude: If you're at a higher altitude, you may need to adjust the temperature and cooking time by a few degrees accordingly. Preheat Your Air Fryer: Make sure your air fryer is preheated to 390°F (200°C) before adding the lumpias. Ensure No Touching: During cooking, avoid allowing the rolled lumpias to touch each other, as it can affect their even crispiness.

Health Benefits of Air Frying

Compared to deep frying, air frying has significant health benefits:

Lower in Calories: Air frying reduces the overall calorie content per serving, making it a more suitable option for health-conscious individuals. Better Fat Usage: Air frying uses a small amount of oil, which is more efficient than deep frying and results in a healthier final product. Healthier Crispiness: Air fryers help achieve a crispy exterior with less oil, making it no less enjoyable than deep-fried foods.

Conclusion

By mastering the art of frying Lumpia Shanghai in an air fryer, you can enjoy this classic Filipino dish without compromising your health. Whether you're hosting a party or just craving a quick, healthy snack, this recipe is a game-changer. Dive into the rich flavors of this delicious dish and treat yourself to a healthier, equally delightful meal. Happy cooking!