Egg rolls are one of those appetizers that never disappoint. Crispy on the outside, warm and flavorful on the inside—what’s not to love? In this egg roll wrapper goat cheese jalapeno recipe, we take the traditional egg roll and give it a spicy, creamy twist with smooth goat cheese and zesty jalapenos. Whether you’re looking to spice up your party menu or just craving something flavorful, these egg rolls hit all the right notes.
What Are Egg Roll Wrappers?
Egg roll wrappers are the golden ticket to making crispy, satisfying egg rolls. These thin sheets of dough, often made from a mix of flour, water, and sometimes eggs, form the outer shell that crisps up beautifully when fried. They’re perfect for holding all sorts of fillings, both savory and sweet. You’ll find them in the refrigerated or frozen section of most grocery stores, and they come in square or rectangular shapes. Once fried, they turn into a crunchy, golden shell that’s the perfect contrast to the creamy filling inside.
Ingredients
Let’s talk about the simple yet bold ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious egg roll wrapper goat cheese jalapeno rolls:
- Egg Roll Wrappers: These are your base, giving that crispy crunch we all love.
- Goat Cheese: A creamy, tangy cheese that melts perfectly inside the roll.
- Jalapenos: Thinly sliced or diced, they provide the perfect balance of heat and flavor.
- Optional Add-ins: Feel free to mix things up with some shredded chicken, bell peppers, or fresh cilantro.
- Oil for Frying: Choose vegetable, canola, or peanut oil—whichever you have on hand for deep frying.
- Egg Wash: This helps seal the egg rolls tightly so the filling stays inside while frying.
Step-by-Step Egg Roll Wrapper Goat Cheese Jalapeno Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by slicing your jalapenos into thin rings. If you want a milder flavor, simply remove the seeds—they carry most of the heat. Then, crumble the goat cheese into a bowl. This will be the creamy, tangy base that pairs so well with the heat of the jalapenos.
Step 2: Fill the Egg Roll Wrapper
Take one egg roll wrapper and place it flat on your working surface with one corner facing toward you (like a diamond shape). Spoon about 1-2 tablespoons of the goat cheese and jalapeno mixture into the center. Don’t worry if it’s a little bit messy—just make sure it’s enough to create a nice, creamy filling.
Step 3: Roll the Egg Roll
Alright, now for the fun part! Take the bottom corner of the wrapper and fold it up over the filling, tucking it in gently. Then, fold the sides in to keep everything nice and secure inside. Now, carefully start rolling it up toward the top corner—think of it like rolling a little package. You want it snug, but not so tight that it can’t expand as it fries. When you get to the top, seal the edge with a little bit of water or egg wash, pressing it gently to make sure everything stays in place. Just like that, you’ve got your first roll ready to fry!
Step 4: Frying the Egg Rolls
The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen as they cook! Once done, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil. And just like that, you’ve got beautifully golden, crispy egg rolls!
Begin by heating your oil to approximately 350°F (175°C)—this ensures the rolls get that irresistible crunch.
Carefully lower the egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. It’s best to fry them in small batches so each one can cook evenly.
Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the rolls are evenly browned and crispy on all sides.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
These egg rolls are best served hot, right out of the fryer. For extra flavor, pair them with dipping sauces like sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or a tangy balsamic glaze. They make a perfect appetizer or snack, and if you’re feeling extra hungry, you can even serve them with a side of fried rice or a fresh salad to make it a full meal.
Tips for Wrapping Egg Rolls Without Cracking
If you’ve ever struggled with cracked egg rolls, here are a few tips to help you out:
- Keep the Wrappers Moist: Egg roll wrappers dry out quickly, so keep them covered with a damp towel while you work.
- Seal Properly: Always seal the edges of your egg rolls tightly. Water or egg wash works well for this.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff your egg rolls. Use about 1-2 tablespoons of filling per roll to prevent bursting.
- Roll Firmly, But Not Too Tight: Make sure your egg rolls are snug but not so tight that they’ll burst open when frying.
Serving Suggestions
These egg roll wrapper goat cheese jalapeno rolls are perfect on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with various sides and sauces:
- Dipping Sauces: Sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or garlic dipping sauce all make great options.
- Side Dishes: Serve them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or even some fried rice to balance the rich, creamy filling.
- Drinks: Pair with a mojito or a citrus-based cocktail for a refreshing contrast to the spiciness of the egg rolls.
Variations of Egg Roll Fillings
While goat cheese and jalapenos are a fantastic combo, you can easily customize your egg rolls to suit your taste. Here are a few variations:
- Chicken and Veggie: Add shredded chicken, carrots, and cabbage for a more traditional filling.
- Cheese and Spinach: Try using cream cheese or mozzarella with spinach for a creamy, savory bite.
- Pork and Apple: For a sweet and savory twist, mix ground pork with chopped apples.
Conclusion
These egg roll wrapper goat cheese jalapeno rolls are a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden shell. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a snack, these egg rolls are sure to satisfy your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility—you can switch up the fillings, try different sauces, and even bake them for a healthier version. So go ahead, give it a try, and let these delicious, crispy bites bring a little extra flavor to your day!