If you’re searching for a delightful appetizer or a fun family dinner idea, look no further than these Crispy Sesame Ginger Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce. Packed with flavor and crunch, these egg rolls are a perfect balance of savory and sweet, sure to impress your family and friends. They are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make, bringing the taste of your favorite Asian restaurant right to your kitchen.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

These egg rolls stand out for several reasons. First, they’re crispy on the outside, with a flavorful filling that includes ground chicken and fresh vegetables. The addition of sesame oil and ginger gives them a wonderful depth of flavor, while the sweet chili sauce adds a delightful kick. Plus, they are perfect for customization, allowing you to use your favorite veggies or proteins. Whether you’re a cooking novice or a seasoned chef, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results.

Gather These Ingredients

2 tablespoons sesame oil, plus more for cooking
1 pound ground chicken (or substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option)
Black pepper, to taste
1 shallot, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 cups mixed chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage)
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
20-22 square egg roll wrappers
Green onions, for serving
1/2 cup sweet Thai chili sauce
1/4 cup pomegranate juice
2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
Pomegranate arils, for serving

Appliances & Accessories

Skillet or frying pan: Essential for cooking the egg rolls until crispy.
Mixing bowl: To combine all your filling ingredients.
Spatula: For turning the egg rolls while cooking.
Plate: To hold your finished egg rolls before serving.

Make Crispy Sesame Ginger Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and sauté until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the grated ginger and chopped garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Chicken and Vegetables

Add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with black pepper and cook until the chicken is no longer pink. Once cooked, add the mixed chopped vegetables and stir to combine. Pour in the low sodium soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Egg Rolls

Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the chicken and vegetable filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper. Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly towards the top corner. Seal the edge with a dab of water. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 4: Cook the Egg Rolls

In the same skillet, heat more sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the assembled egg rolls seam side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. You may need to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 5: Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the sweet Thai chili sauce, pomegranate juice, and 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce. Mix well and set aside for dipping.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the crispy egg rolls hot, garnished with green onions and pomegranate arils. Dip into the sweet chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor!

Seasonal Adaptations

Spring: Use fresh asparagus and snap peas for a burst of color and crunch.
Summer: Incorporate zucchini and corn for a fresh, seasonal twist.
Fall: Add roasted sweet potatoes and kale to embrace autumn flavors.
Winter: Use hearty vegetables like Brussels sprouts and carrots for a warming filling.

Learn from These Mistakes

When making Crispy Sesame Ginger Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce, keep these tips in mind to avoid common pitfalls:

Don’t overfill the egg rolls—too much filling can lead to bursting during cooking.
Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the egg rolls to achieve that perfect crispiness.
Seal the edges of the wrappers well with water to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Allow the filling to cool slightly before wrapping to avoid soggy wrappers.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

These egg rolls are a fantastic make-ahead option! After assembling the egg rolls, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, cook them directly from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you can savor the flavors of Crispy Sesame Ginger Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce whenever the craving strikes!

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these egg rolls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and add more vegetables to create a hearty filling.

How do I store leftover egg rolls?

Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Brush the egg rolls with a little sesame oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

What dipping sauces pair well with these egg rolls?

Besides sweet chili sauce, you can serve them with soy sauce, peanut sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor.

Wrap-Up

These Crispy Sesame Ginger Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce are sure to become a favorite in your household. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they are an excellent way to bring a taste of Asian cuisine to your table. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they’re bound to delight your taste buds. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress with this easy and delicious recipe!