Lumpia Recipe

Lumpia is a beloved Filipino dish that combines a savory filling with a crispy wrapper, perfect as an appetizer or main dish. Follow these steps to create delicious Lumpia at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, beef, or shrimp)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup green beans, thinly sliced
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1/2 cup bean sprouts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 30-40 lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing wrappers)
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• Sweet chili sauce or banana ketchup, for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in 3 cloves minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add 1 lb ground pork (or preferred protein) to the skillet. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until browned and cooked through.
5. Add 1 cup julienned carrots, 1 cup thinly sliced green beans, 1 cup shredded cabbage, and 1/2 cup bean sprouts (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Filling

1. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon fish sauce (if using), 1 teaspoon sugar, and salt and pepper to taste.
2. Pour the sauce mixture over the filling in the skillet. Stir well to combine and coat evenly.
3. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.

Step 3: Wrap the Lumpia

1. Lay a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface with one corner facing you (diamond shape).
2. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in a line along the bottom third of the wrapper, leaving a small border on each side.
3. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling. Tightly roll once, then fold in the sides. Continue rolling into a tight cylinder. Brush the top corner with beaten egg to seal.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 4: Fry the Lumpia

1. In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (350°F/175°C).
2. Carefully place the lumpia in the hot oil, seam side down, in batches. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the lumpia hot with sweet chili sauce or banana ketchup on the side for dipping.
2. Enjoy these crispy and flavorful lumpia as a delicious appetizer or main dish!

Tips for Success:

• Wrapper Handling: Keep lumpia wrappers covered with a damp cloth while assembling to prevent drying out.
• Make-Ahead: You can assemble the lumpia ahead of time and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for storage. Fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to frying time.
• Variations: Customize the filling with shrimp, tofu, or additional vegetables like bell peppers or bamboo shoots.

This homemade lumpia recipe brings the authentic flavors of Filipino cuisine to your table. Enjoy the crunchy texture and savory goodness of these spring rolls!