Why You’ll Love Air‑Fried Spring Rolls Recipe

Crispy and light: you get that satisfying crunch without the heaviness of deep frying.
Quick to prepare: from prep to plate in under 20 minutes.
Customizable: you can easily swap or add ingredients (e.g., vegetables, tofu, or meat) to match your taste.
Great as appetizer, side dish or even a light meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

toasted sesame oil
garlic cloves, minced or pressed
fresh ginger, peeled and grated
shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced
green cabbage, chopped
sea salt
carrot, grated
rice paper wrappers
cooking oil spray (sunflower, safflower or refined coconut)
(optional) gluten‑free sweet and sour sauce or Thai sweet chili sauce for serving

Directions

Heat a large sauté pan or wok over medium heat.
Add sesame oil, garlic, ginger, mushrooms, cabbage, carrot, and salt. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage softens slightly. Remove from heat.
Gently run a rice paper wrapper under water until it becomes pliable. Lay it flat on a clean surface.
Place about 1/4 cup of the vegetable filling in the center. Fold the bottom over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly like a burrito. Repeat with remaining wrappers.
Insert the crisper plate into your air fryer basket (if using one). Preheat the air fryer by selecting the “AIR FRY” setting, set to 390°F (200°C), and preheat for 3 minutes.
Once preheated, spray the crisper plate and basket with cooking oil. Arrange spring rolls in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Lightly spray the tops with oil.
Air fry at 390°F for 9 minutes.
When done, the spring rolls should be crisp and lightly browned. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Servings and timing

Total time: approximately 19 minutes
Makes about 16 spring rolls

Variations

Add protein: Incorporate cooked ground chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu into the filling.
Make it vegan: Use only vegetables and plant-based dipping sauces.
Wrapper swaps: Substitute rice paper with wheat or egg roll wrappers if desired.
Sauce options: Pair with sweet chili, sweet and sour, peanut sauce, or soy-based dips.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
To reheat, place them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp. Avoid using the microwave, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

What can I use instead of mushrooms?

You can substitute mushrooms with shredded carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts, or tofu for added texture and protein.

Can I add meat to the filling?

Yes, cooked ground meat like chicken, pork, shrimp, or beef can be added for a more substantial roll.

Are these spring rolls gluten‑free?

They can be gluten‑free if you use rice paper wrappers and a gluten‑free dipping sauce.

Can I freeze the spring rolls before air frying?

Yes, wrap them well and freeze. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

What’s the best dipping sauce to serve with them?

Sweet chili, sweet and sour, peanut sauce, or a soy-vinegar mix are all great choices.

How can I make the rolls extra crispy?

Ensure you spray both the air fryer basket and the spring rolls with oil and don’t overcrowd them.

Can I use regular frying oil instead of spray?

You can lightly brush oil on the rolls, but spray oil gives more even coverage with less fat.

Is it better to use rice paper wrappers or wheat/egg wrappers?

Rice paper results in a lighter, crispier texture, while wheat or egg wrappers yield a denser roll.

How long do the spring rolls stay good after cooking?

They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days when stored in an airtight container.

Can I reheat them in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes, reheat in a 180–190°C oven for about 8–10 minutes, but the air fryer gives better crispiness.

Conclusion

These air‑fried spring rolls are a tasty, healthier twist on a beloved classic. With their crunchy texture, savory filling, and ease of preparation, they’re ideal for any occasion — from a quick snack to a party appetizer. Make them your own with different fillings and sauces, and enjoy a light, satisfying dish with all the flavor and none of the grease.