Description
Crispy Crab & Cream Cheese Rolls
Ingredients:
8 egg roll wrappers
1 cup lump crab meat
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon sriracha (optional for spice)
Vegetable oil for frying
Dipping Sauce:
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon sriracha
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix crab meat, cream cheese, mozzarella, green onions, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, soy sauce, and sriracha until well combined.
2. Place an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Add a spoonful of the filling near one edge.
3. Roll the wrapper tightly, folding in the sides as you roll. Seal the edges with a little water.
4. Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the rolls in batches for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the dipping sauce, whisk together mayonnaise, sriracha, soy sauce, honey, and lemon juice.
6. Serve the crispy crab rolls with the dipping sauce and enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect rolls every time. First, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature for a smooth filling. Gently fold the lump crab meat into the cheese mixture to avoid breaking up the delicate chunks. When assembling, place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of the wrapper. Use a pastry brush or your finger to lightly dampen all four edges of the wrapper with water before folding. Tightly roll from the bottom corner upward, tucking in the sides firmly to create a secure parcel. For frying, use a deep, heavy-bottomed pot and maintain the oil temperature between 350-375°F. Fry in small batches to prevent crowding and temperature drop, turning occasionally for even browning.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy rolls are versatile and perfect for various occasions. Serve them as a hot appetizer at parties alongside the sriracha mayo and additional options like sweet chili sauce or a simple soy-ginger dip. For a light meal, pair them with a refreshing Asian-inspired slaw or a cucumber salad. They also make an excellent addition to a shared dining experience, complementing dishes like fried rice or a clear soup. Garnish with extra chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
How-to Summary
In brief: Mix the crab and cheese filling, wrap it tightly in egg roll wrappers using water to seal, fry in hot oil (350°F) until golden brown, and serve with a quick whisk-together spicy mayo dipping sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes. For a lighter version, brush the rolls with oil and bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5-8 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid the microwave.
Can I use imitation crab? Absolutely. Chopped imitation crab (surimi) works well and is more economical, though the flavor will be milder.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can assemble the rolls up to a day in advance. Keep them on a baking sheet, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to fry.
Why are my rolls soggy or splitting? Sogginess is often due to oil that is not hot enough. Splitting can occur from overfilling or not sealing the edges properly with enough water.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold cream cheese, which leads to a lumpy, difficult-to-mix filling.
- Overfilling the wrappers, causing them to burst open during frying.
- Frying in oil that is not hot enough, resulting in greasy, soggy rolls.
- Not sealing the edges securely, allowing the filling to leak into the oil.
- Crowding the pan during frying, which lowers the oil temperature and prevents proper crisping.
Conclusion
These Crispy Crab & Cream Cheese Rolls are an impressive and delicious treat that combines luxurious filling with a satisfying crunch. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can master this restaurant-quality appetizer at home. The customizable spice level and versatile serving options make it a perfect recipe for any event. Enjoy the process of creating these golden delights and the fantastic flavors they bring to your table.