Lumpia is a beloved Filipino appetizer that has won hearts worldwide with its crispy exterior and savory filling. Traditionally, lumpia contains meat, but today’s recipe offers a delicious vegetarian twist that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian, a health-conscious eater, or simply curious about trying a new dish, this vegetarian lumpia recipe is sure to impress. Packed with fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, these golden rolls are perfect for snacking, entertaining, or adding a tasty starter to any meal.
Making lumpia at home is easier than you think, and this recipe guides you step-by-step to create perfectly crisp wrappers filled with a vibrant veggie medley. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Get ready to savor a traditional Filipino treat made fresh, wholesome, and meat-free!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian lumpia recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Filipino dish with a healthy, plant-based twist. The filling combines crisp carrots, tender cabbage, mushrooms, and flavorful aromatics to create a balanced, savory bite.
Unlike store-bought lumpia, making your own lets you control the freshness and seasoning, ensuring every roll bursts with flavor.
It’s also incredibly adaptable — perfect for using up leftover vegetables or adding your favorite herbs. The crispy, golden wrappers provide the satisfying crunch everyone loves, while the filling stays juicy and delicious inside.
Plus, these lumpias freeze well, making them a convenient snack or appetizer anytime.
Whether you serve them as party finger food or a fun family meal, these vegetarian lumpia rolls are a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
- 20 pieces lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (button or shiitake)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup green beans, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts, rinsed and drained
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 3 tbsp water (for sealing wrappers)
- Cooking oil for deep frying
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and chopping board
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Deep frying pan or pot
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels for draining
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the vegetables: Stir in the chopped mushrooms, shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, sliced green beans, and bean sprouts. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently to soften the vegetables but keep some crunch.
- Season the filling: Add the soy sauce, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix well and cook an additional 2 minutes to allow flavors to combine. Remove from heat and transfer the filling to a mixing bowl to cool slightly.
- Prepare lumpia wrappers: Lay one lumpia wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you (diamond shape). Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the corner closest to you.
- Roll the lumpia: Fold the corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right corners snugly against the filling. Continue rolling tightly towards the top corner. Brush the top corner lightly with cornstarch slurry to seal the roll. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat oil for frying: Pour cooking oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C) or until a small piece of wrapper sizzles and rises to the surface immediately.
- Fry lumpia: Carefully add a few lumpia rolls at a time, avoiding overcrowding. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and serve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer fried lumpia onto paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce like sweet chili or vinegar with garlic.
Tips & Variations
For crispier lumpia, make sure your filling is not too wet. You can squeeze out excess moisture from vegetables before cooking.
You can also experiment with the filling by adding finely chopped tofu or cooked glass noodles for added texture and protein. For a gluten-free version, use rice paper wrappers and a tamari-based soy sauce substitute.
If you prefer baking over frying, brush the lumpia rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden and crisp, turning halfway through.
For a spicy kick, add finely chopped chili or a dash of cayenne pepper to the filling. Serve with a spicy vinegar dip or even a peanut sauce for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Lumpia (approx.) |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 14 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sodium | 250 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Vegetarian lumpia is best enjoyed hot and fresh with a dipping sauce. Popular options include sweet chili sauce, spiced vinegar with garlic, or even a tangy tamarind dip.
For a complete meal, serve lumpia alongside a fresh green salad or a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
For party platters, arrange lumpia with an assortment of other finger foods like Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite and vegetable spring rolls for variety and color.
These rolls also pair wonderfully with rice dishes or noodle bowls, such as those inspired by Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals, creating a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Making vegetarian lumpia at home is a rewarding culinary experience that yields delicious, crispy, and flavorful results. This recipe captures the essence of traditional Filipino lumpia while offering a fresh and healthy vegetable filling that everyone can enjoy.
The steps are straightforward, and with a little practice, you’ll be rolling these golden delights like a pro.
Beyond being a tasty snack, these lumpia are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet in an exciting way. Remember, the recipe is flexible, so feel free to tailor the filling to your taste or dietary needs.
Whether for a festive occasion or a simple family dinner, vegetarian lumpia is sure to bring smiles and satisfy cravings.
For more inspiring vegetarian recipes, check out our collection of Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or try baking something sweet with the Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious.
Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Lumpia
Description: A delicious Filipino-style spring roll filled with mixed vegetables and tofu. Perfect as an appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT35M
Servings: 12 lumpia rolls
Ingredients
- 12 lumpia wrappers
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup diced green beans
- 1/2 cup diced firm tofu
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
- Add tofu and cook until lightly browned.
- Add cabbage, carrots, and green beans; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- Place a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface and spoon 2 tablespoons of filling near one edge.
- Roll tightly, folding in the sides, and seal the edge with water.
- Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
- Fry lumpia in batches until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 22 g
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