Dive into the flavorful world of Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls, a creative fusion of classic American cheesesteak and the traditional Chinese egg roll. This recipe is a culinary adventure that combines the savory goodness of a Philly cheesesteak – tender beef, melted cheese, and sautéed vegetables – all wrapped in a crispy egg roll wrapper.
It’s a perfect appetizer for gatherings, game nights, or as a unique addition to your dinner menu. These egg rolls offer the beloved flavors of a Philly cheesesteak with the added delight of a crunchy exterior, making them an irresistible snack that’s sure to impress.
Choosing Ingredients and Cooking Tips:
- Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for a less greasy filling. The key is to sear the beef to a nice brown color before breaking it into smaller pieces, as this enhances the flavor and texture.
- Cheese: American cheese is traditional for its creamy melt, but you can experiment with Provolone or Cheez Whiz for a different taste.
- Vegetables: Finely chop the onions and green bell pepper to ensure they cook evenly and blend well with the beef.
- Seasoning: Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the beef. You can also experiment with other seasonings like garlic powder or onion powder for added flavor.
- Egg Roll Wrappers: Ensure the wrappers are fresh for easy folding and sealing. Keep them covered with a damp cloth during assembly to prevent drying out.
- Frying: Use canola or vegetable oil for frying, and ensure it’s hot enough so that the egg rolls become crispy and golden without absorbing too much oil.
Variations and Substitutions:
- Meat Variations: Substitute beef with thinly sliced chicken or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Options: If American cheese isn’t your preference, try Mozzarella for a mild flavor or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a classic ketchup, spicy mayo, or even a cheese sauce for dipping.
- Baking Option: For a healthier version, you can bake the egg rolls in the oven until crispy.
Philly Cheesesteak Egg Rolls are a delightful blend of East meets West, offering a unique and tasty twist on two popular foods. The key to perfect egg rolls is in the preparation – balancing the filling’s flavors and correctly assembling the rolls for that ideal crisp exterior. So gather your ingredients, and let’s embark on making these mouth-watering treats that are sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering!
PHILLY CHEESESTEAK EGG ROLLS
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion finely chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper finely chopped
- 12 slices American cheese
- 24 egg roll wrappers
- A small bowl of water for sealing wrappers
- Canola oil for deep frying
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, aiming to sear the beef before breaking it apart into pea-sized pieces for texture. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and green bell pepper. Sauté until well browned and caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the Filling:
- Return the beef to the skillet with the caramelized onions and bell pepper. Mix thoroughly, then remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
- Prepare to Assemble:
- Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat surface. Place half a slice of American cheese in the center of each wrapper, then add approximately 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture on top.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- To assemble, fold the bottom left corner of the wrapper over the filling. Fold in the sides and continue rolling tightly. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with water to seal.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- Heat canola oil in a deep frying pan to about 350°F (175°C), ensuring it is about 1 inch deep. Fry 3-4 egg rolls at a time until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
- Drain and Serve:
- Remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain on a cooling rack or a brown paper bag to remove excess oil. Serve hot with dipping sauces like ketchup, spicy mayo, or cheese sauce.