Name: Southwestern Egg Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded; ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed; ½ cup corn kernels; ½ red bell pepper, diced; ½ cup spinach, chopped; ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ¼ cup chopped green onions; 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 10-12 egg roll wrappers; Vegetable oil for frying

Southwestern egg rolls are a delightful fusion of Southwestern flavors wrapped in a traditional egg roll shell. These crispy, savory rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Packed with a vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, cheese, and spices, they’re a hit at parties and family gatherings alike. Southwestern Egg Rolls Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these egg rolls combine the bold flavors of the Southwest with the crispy texture of traditional egg rolls. They’re versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether I’m hosting a party or looking for a quick snack, these egg rolls never disappoint.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup corn kernels
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ cup spinach, chopped
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
10-12 egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

Prepare the filling: I combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, spinach, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mixing well ensures all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Prepare the egg roll wrappers: I lay out one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one of the corners pointing towards me, forming a diamond shape. I keep the other wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
Add the filling: I spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper, shaping it into a horizontal line and leaving about an inch of space from the edges.
Fold the wrapper: I fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Next, I fold in the two side corners, then roll the wrapper up from the bottom, sealing the edges with a bit of water to prevent unwrapping during frying.
Fry the egg rolls: I heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I carefully add the egg rolls, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. I remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: Makes 10-12 egg rolls
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Baked Version: For a healthier alternative, I bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they are crispy on all sides.
Vegetarian Option: I omit the chicken and add more beans or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Spicier Version: I add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, I bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

How can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

I prepare the egg rolls as directed, then freeze them before frying. When I’m ready to serve, I fry them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, I sometimes use cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.

What dipping sauces pair well with these egg rolls?

I enjoy serving them with avocado ranch dressing, salsa, or sour cream.

Can I use flour tortillas instead of egg roll wrappers?

While egg roll wrappers provide a crispier texture, I sometimes use flour tortillas for a softer, chewier result.

How do I prevent the egg rolls from becoming soggy?

I ensure the oil is hot enough before frying and avoid overcrowding the pan. After frying, I place the egg rolls on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Conclusion

Southwestern egg rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that combines the best of Southwest and Asian cuisines. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether I’m hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty treat, these egg rolls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try them out, and watch as they become a favorite in your household!