Texas Egg Rolls are a delicious and spicy appetizer that combines creamy cheese, zesty jalapeños, and crispy egg roll wrappers. Perfect for parties or as a snack, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone. Serve them with pepper jelly for an extra kick. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz shredded cheese (cheddar works great, or a combination of your favorite cheeses)
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced
- 10-12 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
- Pepper jelly for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Cheeses and Jalapeños:
- In a medium bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 4 oz of shredded cheese, and 2 finely diced jalapeños. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Wrappers:
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you, like a diamond.
- Add the Filling:
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheese and jalapeño mixture in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the Wrapper:
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll the wrapper tightly towards the top corner, moistening the edge with a little water to seal it closed.
- Repeat:
- Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large, deep skillet or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). You need enough oil to cover the egg rolls completely.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Carefully place a few egg rolls at a time into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain:
- Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Plate and Serve:
- Serve the Texas Egg Rolls hot with pepper jelly on the side for dipping. Enjoy this spicy and cheesy treat!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Jalapeños: For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños before dicing. For more heat, leave them in or add extra jalapeños.
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or a blend of cheeses for varied flavors.
- Sealing: Make sure to seal the egg rolls tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
Variations
Bacon Jalapeño Egg Rolls
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
Vegetarian Egg Rolls
- Substitute the cheese mixture with a blend of cream cheese, diced bell peppers, and black beans for a vegetarian version.
Baked Egg Rolls
- For a lighter option, bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, instead of frying.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before frying.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
Q: Can I freeze these egg rolls? A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked egg rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Fry from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the cooking time.
Q: What can I serve with Texas Egg Rolls? A: These egg rolls are great on their own but can be served with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, guacamole, or salsa.
Q: Can I use a different type of pepper? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use other peppers like serrano or poblano for different heat levels and flavors.
Texas Egg Rolls are a spicy and cheesy appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy filling and crispy exterior, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, these egg rolls are easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful treat with your family and friends!
