Crispy Air Fryer Egg Rolls (Stuffed with Cabbage and Chicken)
Crispy egg rolls cooked in an air fryer, filled with savory cabbage, carrots, and chicken.
Steps
- 1
In a bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, cooked meat (if using), soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder.
- 2
Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each egg roll wrapper. Fold the sides over, then roll tightly. Seal the edge with a little water.
- 3
Preheat the air fryer to 199°C (390°F) for 3 minutes.
- 4
Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.
- 5
Cook at 199°C (390°F) for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy. Serve with soy sauce or sweet and sour sauce.
Shopping list
6 egg roll wrappers, 1 cup finely shredded cabbage, 1/2 cup grated carrots, 1/2 cup cooked chicken or pork (optional), 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, cooking spray
Recipe story
Egg rolls originated in China, where thin dough wrappers were fried and filled with vegetables and meat. The recipe was adapted in American Chinese cuisine, becoming a popular appetizer. The air fryer version retains the crispy texture with less oil.
Ingredient Secrets
Garlic
Native to Central Asia, garlic was already known in ancient Egypt, where it was given to slaves to boost their strength. In ancient Greece, athletes consumed it before competitions, and in Rome, legionaries considered it essential for courage. During the Middle Ages, it was used to ward off vampires and the plague.
Sesame
In Assyrian mythology, the gods drank sesame wine on the night before the creation of the world, and in ancient Rome, sesame seeds were sprinkled on soldiers' bread to give them strength. In the Middle Ages, sesame was considered a magical food capable of boosting vitality. Today, it is valued for its oil rich in essential fatty acids.
Carrot
The carrot, known in antiquity as a medicinal remedy rather than a vegetable, was originally purple or white. It wasn't until the 17th century that Dutch breeders developed the orange variety, honoring the House of Orange.
