In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, green onions, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
Assemble the Egg Rolls:
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface or cutting board, with a corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape). Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling in the center of the wrapper.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly towards the top corner. Use a bit of the beaten egg to seal the top corner of the wrapper. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Heat the Oil:
In a large, deep skillet or a pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to submerge the egg rolls (about 2 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of the wrapper; if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
Fry the Egg Rolls:
Carefully add a few egg rolls to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Repeat the frying process with the remaining egg rolls.
Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and chili paste (if using) until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Serve:
Serve the hot beef egg rolls with the dipping sauce on the side. Enjoy the crispy, flavorful bites as an appetizer or main dish!
Tips for the Best Beef Egg Rolls:
Ground Meat Alternatives:Â You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for different flavor profiles.
Vegetable Variations:Â Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or bean sprouts to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Baking Option: If you prefer a healthier version, brush the assembled egg rolls with oil and bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
Make Ahead:Â The filling can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble and fry the egg rolls just before serving for the best texture.
Nutritional Information (per egg roll, based on 12 servings):
Calories:Â 150
Protein:Â 8g
Fat:Â 8g
Carbohydrates:Â 14g
Fiber:Â 1g
Sugar:Â 1g
Sodium:Â 300mg
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
These Beef Egg Rolls are a delightful combination of crispy wrappers and savory filling, making them an excellent choice for gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. With their satisfying crunch and flavorful interior, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, the homemade dipping sauce adds an extra layer of deliciousness that complements the egg rolls perfectly. Enjoy your culinary adventure with this easy-to-follow recipe, and don’t hesitate to experiment with fillings and sauces to make it your own!
