- Ground pork (1 lb, or substitute with ground chicken, beef, or tofu for variety)
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped or grated
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small tomato, finely chopped (optional for added flavor)
- 1 large egg (to bind the mixture)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers, available at Asian grocery stores)
- Cooking oil (for deep frying)
- Sweet chili sauce or vinegar with garlic (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Procedure: How to Prepare Lumpia
- Prepare the Lumpia Filling
- Combine the ground pork, carrots, onion, garlic, and tomato in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the egg, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed. This creates the flavorful filling that gives lumpia its signature taste.
- Assemble the Lumpia Rolls
- Carefully separate the spring roll wrappers to avoid tearing. Lay one wrapper flat on a clean, dry surface.
- Place a tablespoon of the lumpia filling along the bottom edge of the wrapper, shaping it into a thin line.
- Fold the bottom edge over the filling, then fold in the sides to enclose it. Roll tightly to the top of the wrapper, sealing the edge with a dab of water or beaten egg to keep it intact during frying.
- Get Ready to Fry Lumpia
- Heat oil in a deep frying pan or wok to about 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the lumpia for even cooking.
- Test the oil by dipping a small piece of wrapper into it; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry the lumpia in small batches, ensuring they’re not overcrowded. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the lumpia is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve Your Lumpia
- Transfer the fried lumpia to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Serve hot with a side of sweet chili dipping sauce, soy sauce, or a vinegar-based dip for an authentic Filipino experience.
Top Tips for Cooking and Variations
- Add Spicy Flavor: For a bold twist, make Lumpiang Dynamite, which uses stuffed green chilies filled with cheese or meat, wrapped in lumpia wrappers, and fried until crispy.
- Sweet Lumpia: Try making Turon, the sweet dessert version of lumpia, by using ripe saba bananas and sugar. Add jackfruit for extra sweetness and tropical flavor.
- Healthier Cooking Option: Skip deep frying and bake your lumpia in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) until crispy. This method reduces oil while keeping the rolls crunchy.
- Vegetarian Lumpia: Substitute the meat filling with a mix of bean sprouts, tofu, and other vegetables like cabbage or mushrooms for a plant-based option.
Why Lumpia is a Must-Try Filipino Dish
Lumpia, often referred to as Filipino spring rolls, is a beloved dish with a rich history and cultural significance. Originating from Chinese spring rolls, lumpia has become a staple in Filipino cuisine, celebrated for its versatility and unique flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick snack, or craving a hearty appetizer, lumpia is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds.
Grandma's Lumpia. (n.d.). Filipinos love lumpia. Grandma's Lumpia. Retrieved November 22, 2024, from https://grandmaslumpia.com/blogs/news/filipinos-love-lumpia