Egg rolls: the surprising bread connection you never knew!
What To Know
- The misconception that egg rolls are made of bread likely stems from the fact that they are often fried until golden brown, which gives them a crispy texture similar to bread.
- Place a small amount of filling in the center of an egg roll wrapper.
- They are made with a thin wrapper made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and are filled with a variety of ingredients.
Egg rolls are a popular snack or appetizer enjoyed by many, but have you ever wondered what they’re actually made of? The answer to that question is a resounding no. Egg rolls are not made of bread.
What Are Egg Rolls Made Of?
Egg rolls are typically made with a thin wrapper made from wheat flour, water, and salt. This wrapper is then filled with a variety of ingredients, such as:
- Vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, onions)
- Meat (e.g., pork, chicken, shrimp)
- Eggs
- Seasonings
The Origin of the Misconception
The misconception that egg rolls are made of bread likely stems from the fact that they are often fried until golden brown, which gives them a crispy texture similar to bread. However, the wrapper used to make egg rolls is not made from bread dough and does not contain any yeast.
Why Aren’t Egg Rolls Made of Bread?
There are several reasons why egg rolls are not made of bread:
- Texture: Bread dough is soft and chewy, while egg roll wrappers are thin and crispy.
- Flavor: Bread has a distinct flavor that would overwhelm the other ingredients in an egg roll.
- Cooking method: Egg rolls are typically fried or steamed, while bread is baked.
Types of Egg Roll Wrappers
There are two main types of egg roll wrappers:
- Fresh wrappers: These wrappers are made from scratch and are typically found in Asian grocery stores.
- Dried wrappers: These wrappers are made from dried dough and need to be rehydrated before use.
How to Make Egg Rolls
Making egg rolls at home is a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a basic recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 package egg roll wrappers
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Soy sauce, to taste
- Sesame oil, to taste
Instructions
1. Rehydrate dried egg roll wrappers according to package directions.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage, carrots, onions, pork, eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Place a small amount of filling in the center of an egg roll wrapper.
4. Fold up the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling.
5. Roll up the egg roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
6. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok.
7. Fry the egg rolls until golden brown on all sides.
8. Drain the egg rolls on paper towels.
9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Takeaways
So, there you have it. Egg rolls are not made of bread. They are made with a thin wrapper made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and are filled with a variety of ingredients. So next time you enjoy an egg roll, remember that it’s not a bread product, but a delicious and versatile Asian appetizer.
Top Questions Asked
What is the best way to rehydrate dried egg roll wrappers?
The best way to rehydrate dried egg roll wrappers is to soak them in warm water for 5-10 minutes, or until they are pliable.
What are some common fillings for egg rolls?
Common fillings for egg rolls include cabbage, carrots, onions, pork, chicken, shrimp, and eggs.
How do I prevent egg rolls from bursting when frying?
To prevent egg rolls from bursting when frying, make sure to seal the edges of the wrapper tightly before frying. You can also use a little cornstarch to thicken the filling, which will help to keep it from leaking out.
