These crunchy lumpia are little bundles of joy filled with tasty meat and veggies, all wrapped in a crispy shell. It’s a snack that brings smiles to any gathering!
Trust me, you’ll be munching on these like there’s no tomorrow! They’re perfect for sharing—just make sure you get your fair share before they disappear! 😂
I love how easy they are to whip up, and the dipping sauce makes them even better. Give them a try next time you want a fun treat; they won’t let you down!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Pork: This gives the lumpia a hearty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary concerns, ground turkey or chicken can work well as substitutes.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp provides a great taste. If you have allergies or want a different flavor, consider using diced tofu or a different seafood like crab.
Vegetables: Carrots and green beans add crunch and nutrition. Feel free to swap these with finely chopped bell peppers, cabbage, or zucchini for a twist.
Lumpia Wrappers: These are essential for the crunch. In a pinch, spring roll wrappers or rice paper can work, but they may yield a different texture.
Vegetable Oil: While this is perfect for frying, you can use peanut oil for a slightly nuttier flavor or even air fry the lumpia for a healthier option.
How Do I Properly Roll Lumpia Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling lumpia tightly is key to keeping the filling intact while cooking. Start filling at the bottom corner of the wrapper in a diamond shape. Don’t overload the filling; about 2 tablespoons should do. As you roll up, tuck the filling in tightly, folding the sides in as you go to secure everything inside.
- Use a little water or extra beaten egg on the edges to seal it well.
- Keep a damp towel over the wrappers to prevent them from drying out as you work.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if they don’t all look perfect right away! Enjoy the process!
Delicious Crunchy Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup ground pork
- 1 cup shrimp, peeled and minced
- 1 cup carrots, finely chopped
- 1 cup green beans, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Wrapping and Frying:
- 1 pack lumpia wrappers (about 20-25 sheets)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
For Serving:
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sweet chili sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for frying. In total, you can have delicious crunchy lumpia ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, minced shrimp, finely chopped carrots, green beans, onions, garlic, and the beaten egg. Season everything with salt and pepper according to your taste. Mix well using your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Wrap the Lumpia:
Lay a lumpia wrapper on a clean surface or cutting board with one corner facing you (like a diamond shape). Take about 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture and place it near the bottom corner of the wrapper. Fold that bottom corner over the filling first, then fold the sides inward to encase the filling. Roll it tightly towards the top corner, sealing the edge with a little water or extra beaten egg to hold it together.
3. Fry the Lumpia:
Repeat the wrapping process until you’ve used up your filling and wrappers. Next, heat vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot (you can check by dropping in a small piece of wrapper; it should sizzle), carefully place several lumpia into the oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown, which should take about 3-5 minutes on each side.
4. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the lumpia from the oil and drain them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve them warm, garnished with chopped green onions, and offer sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crunchy and tasty lumpia!
Can I Substitute the Ground Pork with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground chicken, turkey, or beef as a substitute for the ground pork. For a vegetarian version, consider using a mix of mashed tofu or textured vegetable protein with additional vegetables to maintain the texture and flavor.
Can I Prepare the Filling in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day ahead! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just make sure to wrap the lumpia right before frying to keep the wrappers from getting soggy. You can also freeze the unwrapped lumpia for up to a month; just fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
How to Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crunchiness, rather than using a microwave, which may make them soggy.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Lumpia Wrappers?
If you can’t find lumpia wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers or even phyllo dough as an alternative. Just adjust the filling amount based on the size of your wrappers. Keep in mind that cooking times may also vary slightly depending on the thickness of the wrappers used.
