Name: Irresistible Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup shredded cabbage; 1/2 cup shredded carrots; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 20 egg roll wrappers; Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Spread the love

Introducing the ultimate fusion of Korean-inspired flavors and the beloved egg roll – the irresistible Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls. These savory bites pack a punch of bold taste and satisfying texture, making them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Seoul.

✨ What Makes This Recipe Special

The secret to these Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls lies in the harmonious blend of aromatic spices, tender ground beef, and crisp veggies wrapped in a golden, crunchy exterior. Each bite delivers a symphony of flavors, with the savory beef and the fresh crunch of cabbage and carrots creating a delightful contrast. And the best part? These egg rolls come together quickly, making them the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup shredded cabbage
1/2 cup shredded carrots
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated ginger
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
20 egg roll wrappers
Oil for frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

The beauty of this Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, carrots, and Korean-inspired seasonings creates the authentic flavor profile that has made these egg roll recipes perennially popular.

Instructions

Step 1: In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small crumbles, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add the shredded cabbage, carrots, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, gochujang, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let the flavors meld for 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef and vegetable mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper.
Step 5: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly. Moisten the top corner with water to seal the egg roll.
Step 6: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2-3 inches of oil to 350°F. Carefully add the egg rolls, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain the fried egg rolls on a paper towel-lined plate. Serve hot, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Timing Overview

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Compared to traditional Korean beef egg rolls which can take up to 45 minutes to prepare, this Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls recipe saves you 10 minutes of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 20 servings):

• Calories: 170
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 470mg

These Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls provide approximately 15% of your daily protein requirements and 10% of your daily fiber needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.

🥬 Make It Even Healthier

• Reduced-fat option: Use 93% lean ground beef and substitute low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the overall fat and sodium content.
• Lower-carb version: Replace the egg roll wrappers with lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas for a keto-friendly alternative.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Omit the cheese and use a dairy-free dipping sauce, such as a soy-based or nut-based sauce.
• Added protein: Increase the protein by adding 1/4 cup of cooked and crumbled tofu or 2 tablespoons of chopped peanuts to the filling.
• Boost vegetables: Incorporate more vegetables by adding sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped green onions to the filling.

These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a side of sweet chili sauce or a soy-based dipping sauce for added flavor.
• Pair the egg rolls with a refreshing cabbage or cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
• Complement the dish with a side of steamed rice or noodles for a more substantial dinner.
• For a family-style gathering, serve the egg rolls alongside other Korean-inspired appetizers like kimchi pancakes or Korean fried chicken.
• Create an Asian-fusion platter with the egg rolls, potstickers, and spring rolls for a visually appealing and flavorful spread.

❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overstuffing the wrappers: Be mindful not to add too much filling, as this can cause the wrappers to tear or become difficult to roll.
• Undercooking the beef: Ensure the ground beef is cooked through and no longer pink to prevent any food safety concerns.
• Overheating the oil: Keep the oil temperature between 350°F and 375°F to achieve a crispy, golden-brown exterior without burning the egg rolls.
• Crowding the pan: Fry the egg rolls in batches to maintain the proper oil temperature and prevent the wrappers from sticking together.
• Forgetting to seal the wrappers: Moisten the top corner of the wrapper with water to ensure a tight seal and prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe

These Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls retain their quality remarkably well:

• Refrigeration: Store cooked and cooled egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the egg rolls, but do not fry them. Place them on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frying.
• Freezing baked: Allow the fried egg rolls to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the egg rolls in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the wrappers soggy.

❓ FAQs

Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! The unfried egg rolls can be prepared in advance and frozen for up to 3 months. Simply follow the instructions for freezing unbaked and thaw them in the refrigerator before frying when ready to serve.

Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a substitute for the ground beef. The flavor profile will be slightly different, but the dish will still be delicious. You may want to adjust the seasoning to suit the new protein.

How can I make these egg rolls healthier?

To make these Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls healthier, you can use 93% lean ground beef, substitute low-sodium soy sauce, and replace the egg roll wrappers with lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas. You can also boost the vegetable content by adding more shredded cabbage, carrots, or other veggies to the filling.

What if the egg rolls are soggy after frying?

If your egg rolls come out soggy, it’s likely due to overcrowding the pan during frying or not maintaining the proper oil temperature. Make sure to fry the egg rolls in batches and keep the oil between 350°F and 375°F. You can also try draining the fried egg rolls on a wire rack instead of paper towels to help them retain their crispiness.

Can I add extra ingredients to the filling?

Yes, you can easily customize the filling by adding additional ingredients, such as sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or chopped green onions. Just be mindful not to overstuff the wrappers, and adjust the seasoning as needed to accommodate the extra ingredients.

🎉 Final Thoughts

These Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a party appetizer or a weeknight main dish, they’re sure to impress with their bold, authentic Korean flavors and irresistibly crispy texture. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Korean-inspired egg rolls demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the frying process. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will have everyone raving about your Korean Ground Beef Egg Rolls.