Name: Southwestern Egg Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend); 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 20 egg roll wrappers; Oil for frying

Southwestern egg rolls are a delightful fusion of Southwestern flavors wrapped in a traditional egg roll shell. These crispy, savory rolls are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Packed with a vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, cheese, and spices, they're a hit at parties and family gatherings alike. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making these mouthwatering treats.

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
½ cup corn kernels
½ red bell pepper, diced
½ cup spinach, chopped
½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
¼ cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
10-12 egg roll wrappers
Vegetable oil for frying

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, spinach, Monterey Jack cheese, green onions, cilantro, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 2: Prepare the egg roll wrappers
Lay out one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one of the corners pointing towards you, forming a diamond shape. Keep the other wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.

Step 3: Add the filling
Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper. Shape the filling into a horizontal line, making sure to leave about an inch of space from the edges.

Step 4: Fold the wrapper
Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Next, fold in the two side corners, and then roll the wrapper up from the bottom, making sure to seal the edges with a bit of water to prevent the egg roll from unwrapping during frying.

Step 5: Fry the egg rolls
Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the egg rolls, a few at a time, and fry until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Cooking Note:

For a healthier alternative, you can bake the egg rolls in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through the baking time to ensure they are crispy on all sides.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Southwestern egg rolls hot, with a side of creamy avocado ranch dressing, salsa, or sour cream for dipping. They also pair well with a fresh salad or a bowl of tortilla soup for a complete meal.

Tips:

To save time, you can use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breast yourself.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying; otherwise, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day, making it easier to assemble the egg rolls when you're ready to cook them.

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

15 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per egg roll):

Calories: 150
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 350mg

Conclusion

Southwestern egg rolls are a delicious and versatile dish that combines the best of Southwest and Asian cuisines. With their crispy exterior and flavorful filling, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty treat, these egg rolls are easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Try them out, and watch as they become a favorite in your household!

Southwestern Egg Rolls Recipe