Voodoo Egg Rolls
Voodoo Egg Rolls are crispy, golden pockets filled with a flavorful mix of seasoned veggies and tender meat that give each bite a fun and spicy kick. They’re a tasty…
Tip: save now, cook later.Voodoo Egg Rolls are crispy, golden pockets filled with a flavorful mix of seasoned veggies and tender meat that give each bite a fun and spicy kick. They’re a tasty twist on classic egg rolls that bring a little excitement to any meal or snack time.
I love making these because they’re easy to customize depending on what you have on hand, and the secret spices really make them stand out. Whenever I serve these, people always ask for the recipe—it’s like they have a magic spark that keeps everyone coming back for more!
My favorite way to enjoy Voodoo Egg Rolls is dipping them in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce that balances the heat perfectly. They work great as a party appetizer or a crunchy side to any dinner, and I often warm them up the next day for a quick and satisfying snack. They remind me of fun nights with friends where good food and laughter flow easily.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Meat: I usually use ground pork for its juicy flavor, but ground chicken or turkey works well if you want a leaner option. Plant-based crumbles are good too for a vegetarian version.
Cajun Seasoning & Spices: These give the egg rolls their spicy, bold taste. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and oregano for a quick substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar melts nicely and adds a creamy contrast to the spicy filling. You can try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra heat.
Egg Roll Wrappers: These create the crispy shell. You can find them in most grocery stores. If unavailable, spring roll wrappers can be a good alternative but may be thinner and crisp faster.
Vegetables: Cabbage brings crunch and moisture. If you don’t have fresh cabbage, coleslaw mix or shredded kale also works. Bell peppers add sweetness, but feel free to swap in diced carrots or celery.
How Can I Roll and Fry Egg Rolls Without Them Falling Apart?
Rolling and frying egg rolls so they stay intact can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you get it right:
- Place filling near the corner closest to you, but not too much—about 2-3 tablespoons is ideal.
- Fold the corner over the filling tightly, then tuck in the sides snugly to avoid gaps.
- Use a small amount of water on the wrapper edge to seal it well—it acts like glue.
- When frying, heat oil to the right temperature (about 350°F). Too cold and rolls absorb oil and get soggy; too hot and they burn quickly.
- Turn rolls gently during frying for even browning, and remove them once golden and crisp.
Taking your time with rolling and frying means you’ll get that perfect crisp outside with a tasty filling that stays inside and doesn’t leak out.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking the filling evenly and in one pan.
- Mixing bowl – to toss the ingredients together before filling the wrappers.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping veggies and garlic safely and quickly.
- Deep fryer or heavy pot – lets you fry the egg rolls evenly with enough oil space.
- Slotted spoon or tongs – easy to turn and remove egg rolls from hot oil safely.
- Paper towels – important for draining excess oil to keep rolls crispy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap the pork or chicken for cooked shrimp for a seafood twist that pairs well with spicy seasoning.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add a milder spicy kick.
- Add shredded carrots or finely chopped mushrooms for extra crunch and earthiness.
- Mix in chopped fresh cilantro or basil for a fresh herb note that lifts the bold flavors.
How to Make Voodoo Egg Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground pork or chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (red or green)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12-15 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Sweet and spicy sauce (optional) for drizzling or dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare the filling and roll the egg rolls, plus another 5-7 minutes for frying in batches. Overall, you should set aside around 30-35 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Filling:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork or chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Next, add the diced onions, diced bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté everything together until the vegetables are soft, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Season and Add Veggies:
Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well so all the flavors blend.
Add the shredded cabbage, and cook for about 2 more minutes until just wilted. Take the pan off heat and let the mixture cool a bit so it’s easier to handle.
3. Roll the Egg Rolls:
Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing toward you (like a diamond). Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the corner closest to you. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly. Roll it up firmly toward the top corner and seal the edge with a little water to keep it closed. Repeat this for all the wrappers and filling.
4. Fry Until Crispy:
In a deep fryer or a large heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the egg rolls in the hot oil, frying in batches so they aren’t overcrowded.
Fry the egg rolls, turning occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove them and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Drizzle the egg rolls with sweet and spicy sauce or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh touch. Serve hot and enjoy the crispy, cheesy, spicy flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Meat for the Filling?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the meat in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps with browning.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Egg Rolls?
Definitely! Brush the rolls lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until they’re golden and crispy. Baking is a healthier alternative but may be slightly less crispy than frying.
How Should I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness instead of using the microwave, which can make them soggy.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have Egg Roll Wrappers?
You can substitute with spring roll wrappers or even large tortillas in a pinch. Just note that the texture and crispness may vary slightly depending on the wrapper used.
