Beef spring rolls are crispy bites filled with tasty beef and fresh veggies. They’re easy to make and perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Rolling them up can be a bit messy, but that’s part of the fun! I like to dip them in sweet chili sauce for an extra kick. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is your main protein. I like using lean ground beef for less grease. If you’re looking for healthier options, ground turkey or diced chicken can also work great!
Vegetables: Carrots and cabbage add texture and sweetness. If you’re out of cabbage, feel free to use spinach or kale, or even a bag of coleslaw mix for convenience.
Green Onions: These add a fresh flavor. If you don’t have them, shallots or even regular onions chopped finely could work in a pinch.
Sauces: Soy and oyster sauce are essential for flavor. If you need a vegetarian option, substitute soy sauce with a mushroom-based sauce and skip the oyster sauce.
Spring Roll Wrappers: If you can’t find these, use rice paper or even tortillas as a last resort. Just adjust cooking time as needed!
Fresh Herbs: Cilantro, mint, or basil elevate the dish. If you have none of these, try parsley for a different taste.
How Do I Properly Roll Spring Rolls?
Rolling spring rolls can be tricky, but here’s a simple guide! Start by laying the wrapper in a diamond shape with the corner facing you. Spoon the filling close to the bottom corner and follow these steps:
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling.
- Tuck in the sides tightly to secure the filling.
- Continue rolling towards the top corner and seal the edge with water. Ensure to roll snugly but not too tight that they burst during frying.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if the first few aren’t perfect. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Beef Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for cooking beef filling)
For the Spring Rolls:
- Spring roll wrappers (about 20 sheets)
- Vegetable oil (for deep frying)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (cilantro, mint, or basil)
- Optional: bean sprouts or finely sliced green onion for garnish
For Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup sweet chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes of preparation and cooking time. You’ll spend a bit of time cooking the filling, rolling the spring rolls, and then frying them to crispy perfection. Get ready for some deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Beef Filling:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until you smell that wonderful aroma. Next, add in the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Adding Vegetables and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to add some color! Stir in the shredded carrots, shredded cabbage, and chopped green onions. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften slightly. Then, season everything with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, optional fish sauce, and ground black pepper. Mix well and let it cook for another 2 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and let the filling cool a bit.
3. Rolling the Spring Rolls:
Prepare a clean work surface and lay out your spring roll wrappers. Grab one wrapper and position it so that one corner is pointing at you (it should look like a diamond). Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling close to the corner nearest you.
4. Shaping the Rolls:
Time to fold! First, fold that corner over the filling, then tuck in the sides snugly, and roll tightly towards the far corner. Use a little water on the edge to seal it shut. Go ahead and repeat this with the rest of the wrappers and filling.
5. Frying the Spring Rolls:
In a deep pan or fryer, heat enough vegetable oil to cover the rolls (about 2-3 inches deep). When the oil is hot (around 350°F / 180°C), carefully drop in the spring rolls in batches, frying them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
6. Serving Time:
Once they’re cooked, remove the spring rolls with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. Serve them hot, garnished with fresh herbs and sliced green onions, alongside sweet chili sauce for dipping. Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Beef Spring Rolls!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may take a little less time to cook, so monitor it closely when browning.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Spring Rolls?
Yes, you can bake the spring rolls for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the rolled spring rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly spray or brush them with oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.
How Do I Store Leftover Spring Rolls?
Store leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to revive some crispiness, or microwave them for a quick option, though they may not be as crispy.
What Can I Use Instead of Spring Roll Wrappers?
If you don’t have spring roll wrappers on hand, you can substitute with rice paper, which will require just a quick soak in warm water to soften. Alternatively, you can use tortillas, but the texture and flavor will be different!
