Air Fryer Lumpia Rolls

Crispy on the outside with a juicy savory filling these air fryer lumpia are my shortcut to a beloved Filipino classic that feels just as celebratory whether we are nibbling before a big family meal or grabbing a snack midday Straight from the air fryer they are golden and crunchy with a vivid punch from ginger garlic and fresh veggies The sweet chili dipping sauce brings the perfect contrast and this recipe comes together faster and lighter than the old deep fried kind

My family absolutely loves these air fryer lumpia as a snack or a party appetizer They are so much easier than traditional fried lumpia and disappear fast from any table

Ingredients

• Ground beef: brings hearty flavor and richness Choose a high quality lean blend for less grease
• Ground pork: adds juiciness and classic lumpia taste Select fresh ground from a butcher if you can
• Garlic: lots of it gives bold depth Use fresh and chop it fine for best punch
• Fresh ginger: brightens the filling and adds that signature southeast Asian warmth
• Water chestnuts: bring crunch Make sure these are firm and white not soggy
• Carrots: add sweetness and color Choose young carrots for tenderness
• Spanish onion: gives a mild but savory backbone in every bite Use fresh and dice tiny
• Low sodium soy sauce: seasons everything without too much saltiness Try tamari if gluten free
• Toasted sesame oil: for nutty roundness A tiny splash does wonders
• Kosher salt: to lift flavors
• Freshly ground black pepper: for a bit of background heat
• Thai chili flakes: offer gentle warmth Use more or less based on your crowd
• Scallion: brightens the filling and gives a fresh finish Pick scallions with crisp greens
• Spring roll wrappers: keep everything sealed tight Look for ones without cracks for easy rolling
• Egg wash: helps seal each roll so filling does not leak out
• Peanut or vegetable oil: to brush on before air frying Opt for oils with high smoke points
• Sweet chili sauce: for dipping A must have with lumpia and easy to find in Asian markets

Instructions

Mix the Meat and Aromatics:

Combine the ground beef and pork in a large wide bowl Using clean hands mix gently until just combined Try not to overwork to keep the filling tender

Add Flavor and Texture:

Scatter in the garlic ginger water chestnuts carrots onion soy sauce sesame oil salt black pepper chili flakes and scallion Mix thoroughly so every bite gets lots of flavor The finer you chop the veggies the smoother your filling will be

Prepare the Wrappers:

Place half of a wrapper with the pointed end facing you on a clean dry surface Spoon about two heaping tablespoons of filling in a line near the bottom point Spread it gently so it is even but not too close to the edges

Roll the Lumpia:

Fold the bottom corner up and over the filling Tuck the sides in as you roll to form a tight cigar shape Stop when just the top point is left Brush the corner with a little egg wash and press gently to seal

Repeat Shaping:

Lay finished lumpia seam side down on a parchment lined tray Continue with remaining filling and wrappers If you like you can cover them with a damp towel and chill up to eight hours or freeze them now for future snacks

Air Fry to Crispy:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for three to five minutes Brush each lumpia all over with a thin layer of oil Arrange in a single layer in the basket with space between each Cook for eight to ten minutes turning once until golden brown crisp and cooked through

Serve Hot:

Transfer hot lumpia to a rack or plate and let them rest a minute for maximum crunch Serve right away with plenty of sweet chili sauce for dipping

I have always loved how the water chestnuts keep their crunch no matter how long they cook My little one loves being on wrapper duty and we have made a game out of seeing who rolls the tightest lumpia Everyone has a favorite filling but I always double the garlic for that big flavor

Storage Tips

Lumpia are best fresh but leftover cooked rolls store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in your air fryer for three to four minutes to revive crispness Uncooked lumpia can be frozen in a single layer and then bagged for up to two months Cook straight from frozen adding an extra two minutes to the air fryer time

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or chicken for pork and beef for a leaner take Shiitake mushrooms make a tasty vegetarian filling if chopped small and sautéed first For gluten free needs try rice paper wrappers and tamari instead of regular soy sauce

Serving Suggestions

Pile lumpia high on a platter with a big bowl of sweet chili sauce on the side For a heartier meal serve them with garlic fried rice plus a fresh cucumber salad on the side They also shine at potlucks and kids lunch boxes

Cultural and Historical Context

Lumpia roots reach deep into Filipino celebration and every family has a secret filling formula Passing down lumpia recipes is a beautiful way to share family history I learned my first batch from my friend at their New Year party and ever since it always feels like a small piece of home and community

Seasonal Adaptations

Spring minced sugar snap peas bring extra crunch Fall use shredded cabbage or butternut squash for a seasonal filling Winter double the ginger for warmth and more chili flakes for a spicy kick

Success Stories

I once made these for a big family reunion and watched adults elbowing kids out of the way to get the last roll They disappear fast and always earn recipe requests Everyone loves the light not greasy finish

Freezer Meal Conversion

Freeze prepared uncooked lumpia after sealing Place in a single layer until solid then store in freezer bags Cook straight from frozen for busy weeknights or surprise guests No thawing necessary for crispy results

Once you try these air fryer lumpia no other version compares Enjoy their crunch with your favorite dipping sauce and share them with friends for a true taste of celebration

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes lumpia crispy in the air fryer?

The use of thin spring roll wrappers and a light brushing of oil help them crisp up evenly in the air fryer.

→ Can I use different meats for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or even make an all-vegetable mixture to fit your preference.

→ How do you keep lumpia from drying out?

Store prepared, unbaked lumpia covered with a damp towel and cook them soon after assembly to retain moisture.

→ Should I preheat the air fryer for lumpia?

Preheating ensures even cooking and helps achieve a crispier exterior on your lumpia rolls.

→ What dipping sauce pairs well?

Sweet chili sauce is traditional, but soy sauce or a vinegar-based dip also complement the flavors well.