Fried Lumpia
Fried Lumpia are crispy Filipino spring rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and vegetables, perfect as an appetizer or snack. Their savory, slightly sweet flavor pairs well with dips like ketchup or sweet and sour sauce, making them a crowd-pleaser for gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pan.
- Drain excess grease and return the beef to the pan.
- Add minced onion, shredded carrots, shredded potato, and minced celery; cook over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add about 1 tablespoon soy sauce to the mixture.
- Let the mixture cool completely.
- Separate the egg, setting aside the white and mixing the yolk into the meat mixture.
- Carefully separate the lumpia or egg roll wrappers and prevent them from drying out.
- Spoon about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the lower end of a wrapper.
- Fold the bottom quarter of the wrapper over the filling and roll tightly.
- Seal the edge with egg whites.
- Deep-fry the lumpia until golden brown or pan-fry with some oil.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot with ketchup, sweet and sour sauce, or barbecue sauce.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground pork or chicken instead of beef, or mix in some minced garlic. If you're short on time, pre-shredded vegetables can save effort. Ensure wrappers are kept covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work. Adjust the soy sauce to your taste, as it can vary in saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve fried lumpia hot with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, sweet and sour sauce, or barbecue sauce for a delightful contrast. They make a great appetizer or snack and pair wonderfully with a side of Cumin Rice for a more substantial meal. Consider a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through and crispy. For best results, avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Lumpia contains roughly 793 calories, with 19g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2513mg per serving (109% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze lumpia before frying?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked lumpia. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I use instead of egg in the filling?
If you're looking for an egg substitute, consider using a flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer. This will help bind the filling while keeping it vegetarian. You could also use mashed potatoes as a binder for a unique twist.
What type of dipping sauce is best with lumpia?
Lumpia pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Sweet and sour sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try a spicy chili sauce or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Experiment to find your favorite combination!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).