Chinese Restaurant Recipe for Vegetarian Spring Rolls Made Easy

Spring rolls are a beloved appetizer in Chinese cuisine, known for their crispy exterior and flavorful fillings. For vegetarians, Chinese restaurant-style spring rolls offer a delightful way to enjoy an array of fresh vegetables wrapped in a perfectly fried, crunchy shell.

These spring rolls are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for gatherings, snacks, or a light meal. Making them at home allows you to customize the fillings and enjoy a healthier version without compromising on taste.

In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create authentic-tasting vegetarian spring rolls using common ingredients and simple techniques. With a crispy golden shell and savory, fragrant vegetable filling, these spring rolls will rival those from your favorite Chinese restaurant.

Plus, they are perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces, from classic sweet chili to soy-based dips.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian spring roll recipe is a fantastic way to bring the flavors of your favorite Chinese restaurant right into your kitchen. Not only is it packed with fresh vegetables and fragrant seasonings, but it also offers a perfect balance of crispy texture and savory filling.

It’s easy to customize based on your preference or what you have available in the fridge. The spring rolls freeze well, so you can prepare batches in advance for quick snacks or party appetizers.

Plus, this recipe is completely vegetarian and can be made vegan by using vegan-friendly wrappers and dipping sauces.

Best of all, it’s a fun cooking project that yields impressive results, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook looking to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 20 spring roll wrappers (store-bought, usually found in the freezer section)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage (green or Napa cabbage)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 1/2 cup finely chopped shiitake mushrooms (or button mushrooms)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying filling)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
• 1/4 cup water mixed with 2 tablespoons flour (for sealing wrappers)

Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Deep frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon or wire rack
• Pastry brush or small bowl for wrapper sealing paste
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add the mushrooms: Stir in the chopped shiitake mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add shredded cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts: Stir-fry the vegetables for 3-5 minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch.
4. Season the filling: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss everything well and cook for another minute. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
5. Prepare the sealing paste: Mix 1/4 cup water with 2 tablespoons of flour until smooth. This will act as the glue to seal the spring rolls.
6. Assemble the spring rolls: Lay one spring roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you.
7. Fold and roll: Fold the corner over the filling, tuck in the sides snugly, and continue rolling tightly towards the opposite corner. Brush a little sealing paste on the final corner to seal the roll. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
8. Heat oil for frying: Pour enough oil into a deep frying pan or wok to submerge the spring rolls halfway. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C).
9. Fry the spring rolls: Carefully place 3-4 spring rolls in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain and serve: Remove the spring rolls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

For best results, make sure the filling is cool before wrapping to prevent the wrappers from tearing.

You can customize the filling by adding finely chopped tofu for extra protein or shredded bell peppers for color and sweetness. Try incorporating water chestnuts for a delightful crunch, or add a dash of chili flakes if you like it spicy.

If you want to bake instead of fry, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly brush the spring rolls with oil. Bake them on a parchment-lined tray for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crisp, turning halfway through.

For dipping sauces, experiment with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce with a splash of rice vinegar, or even a homemade peanut sauce.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Vegetarian spring rolls make a perfect appetizer or side dish. Serve them hot and crispy alongside steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a full meal.

They also pair wonderfully with noodle dishes and soups.

For a party platter, arrange the spring rolls with small bowls of various dipping sauces such as hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, and soy sauce mixed with fresh lime juice and chopped chili.

To add a fresh contrast, serve with a side of pickled vegetables or a simple cucumber salad.

While you’re exploring delicious vegetarian recipes, you might also enjoy Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a wholesome vegetable side, or try the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add some tangy zest to your meals.

For a sweet treat after your spring rolls, check out the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe.

Conclusion

Making Chinese restaurant-style vegetarian spring rolls at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. With fresh vegetables, aromatic seasonings, and the perfect crispy wrapper, these spring rolls are sure to impress both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

The recipe is simple enough for beginners but offers plenty of room for customization and creativity.

Whether you’re preparing a snack, appetizer, or part of a larger meal, these spring rolls bring authentic Chinese flavors to your table without the need for takeout. Plus, they freeze well, making them an excellent make-ahead option.

So gather your ingredients, have fun wrapping, and enjoy a tasty treat that’s satisfying, crispy, and full of vibrant flavors!

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