Air Fryer Lumpiang Shanghai for a Healthy Twist
- Reasons to Love
- Variations
- Tips
- How To Make Lumpia In An Air Fryer
- What To Serve With This Recipe
- Common Questions
lumpiang shanghai air fryer. I know, I know – you love that perfectly crispy bite with a savory filling, right? Thing is, sometimes you just want to skip the deep frying bit (nobody needs that oily cloud hovering in the kitchen… or on their face). Or maybe you’re trying to sneak in a healthier snack between Zoom meetings. If that’s you, high five. This blog’s got your back. Let’s jump into making lumpiang shanghai that hits all the right notes – without the greasy splatter.
Reasons to Love
Using an air fryer for lumpiang shanghai just feels like the universe finally lined up. For one, you dodge the oil-drenched clean-up. Seriously, I used to dread scrubbing pans after deep-frying (total mood killer). Now? Toss your lumpia in the air fryer basket – a quick crisp, and boom. Done.
And goodness, the texture. The wrappers blister up so well, they practically shout, “Bite me!” The insides? Still juicy. I swear my first batch fooled my cousin who’s a fried-lumpia purist. Fewer calories, less guilt, but the same addiction-level crunch. Plus, air fryers don’t require constant attention – flip halfway and you’re golden.
Also, let’s not tiptoe around it – an air fryer keeps your house from smelling like an old fish shack. Your hair will thank you. If you’re making a huge batch for parties, use the time between batches to prep sauces or even just breathe. All of this, and it’s still that five-star restaurant treat.
“I honestly thought these wouldn’t measure up to my Lola’s, but now I can eat like her without needing a nap after! So good.” – Benjie, real lumpia enthusiast
Variations
You ever open your fridge and realize you’re missing an ingredient (or three)? Yeah, same. One reason I keep making lumpiang shanghai air fryer style is flexibility. Don’t have ground pork? Use chicken, beef, or even tofu.
Some days I’ll toss in chopped mushrooms or even shredded carrots for that extra crunch. You could go full-on veggie if you want to (hello, fiber.) If you like it spicy, mix in some chilies or slap a hot sauce on top before serving. Honestly, the sky’s the limit – I’ve even heard of people adding cheese (I haven’t tried that yet, but I’m curious).
Change up your dipping sauces, too. Classic sweet chili is unbeatable, but spicy vinegar? Ketchup-mayo swirl? Don’t let anyone stop you from getting creative! It’s your kitchen. If it tastes awesome to you, that’s what matters.
Tips
Let’s keep it real: air fryers are a game-changer if you know a few tricks. My first time? Half the lumpia dried out (sad trombone). Save yourself the heartbreak:
First, don’t overstuff the wrapper. If you do, they split or end up chewy. A skinny roll crisps way nicer. Also, brush or spray a lil’ bit of oil on each lumpia – not much, just enough for that golden finish. Overcrowding in the basket? Nope. Keep some space between rolls so the air can work its magic.
If your lumpia is frozen, don’t thaw it out. Just throw those bad boys in a pre-heated air fryer – they’ll be perfect. And halfway through? Give ’em a quick flip. That gets both sides happy. Last tip: watch them the last couple of minutes, so you don’t end up with burnt minis!
Trust me, try these and your air fryer lumpia will honestly rival any party tray.
How To Make Lumpia In An Air Fryer
Ready? Let’s not overcomplicate it. Here’s the basic lowdown.
- Gather your stuff: Lumpia wrappers, ground meat (pork, beef, chicken, whatever’s handy), onion, garlic, carrots, eggs, and seasoning. Don’t forget the oil spray.
- Mix the filling: Toss your meat, veggies, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper into one big bowl. Go wild mixing (hands or spoon, whatever).
- Wrap it up: Place a spoonful of filling on a lumpia wrapper. Roll it up tight like a burrito, seal with water or a bit of egg wash at the tip.
- Pop in the air fryer: Spray each roll with oil and place in the basket. Cook at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway. Make sure they’re spaced out!
- Serve: Let them cool a bit (they’re fiery hot inside), then dish up with your favorite dipping sauce.
And hey, try not to eat half the batch before your family sees them.
What To Serve With This Recipe
You wanna impress? Here’s how I usually plate up lumpiang shanghai air fryer style:
- Garlic fried rice is my go-to. All that crunch, plus extra carbs – what’s not to love?
- Pair it with a sweet chili sauce for dipping. It brings out the savory goodness.
- A crisp cold salad works surprisingly well. It cuts through the rich flavors, trust me.
- Some folks love serving it ‘party style’ with pancit noodles and soda. Or, honestly, eat it solo as a midnight snack. Just don’t forget napkins!
Common Questions
Do I need to thaw frozen lumpia before air frying?
Nope, not at all. Throw them straight in the air fryer and just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
How do I keep lumpia crisper in the air fryer?
Don’t overcrowd them and make sure to lightly grease. Crowding makes them soggy, and a touch of oil keeps things snappy.
What if my wrappers keep splitting?
Try not to stuff them so full. And if your wrappers are dry, wrap them in a damp towel before rolling.
Can I use store-bought filling?
Absolutely. Sometimes I even use leftover rotisserie chicken in a pinch. Even “shortcut” lumpia tastes fantastic after air frying.
What sauces work best?
Sweet chili is the classic, but honestly, whatever you love. Ketchup with a splash of vinegar, soy sauce with calamansi… the sky’s the limit.
Lumpiang Shanghai in an Air Fryer
Ingredients
For the filling
- 1 lb ground meat (pork, beef, chicken) Use any type of meat you have on hand
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, shredded Can substitute with other vegetables
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder for the filling
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
For wrapping
- 20 pieces lumpia wrappers
- 1 spray oil spray For crispy texture
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all ingredients: lumpia wrappers, ground meat, onion, garlic, carrots, egg, and seasoning.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, diced onion, minced garlic, shredded carrots, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Wrapping
- Take a spoonful of filling and place it on a lumpia wrapper.
- Roll it up tightly, similar to a burrito, sealing the edges with water or egg wash.
Cooking
- Spray the rolled lumpia with oil and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Cook at 375°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Serving
- Allow the lumpia to cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce.
