Santa Fe Egg Rolls
Make scrumptious Santa Fe Egg Rolls in just 35 minutes! Fry these delightful treats filled with chicken and veggies for an easy appetizer. Perfect for any occasion!
- about introduction
- the complete guide to authentic santa fe egg rolls
- why you'll love this version
- health & nutrition highlights
- recipe at a glance
- essential components guide
- expert cooking method for santa fe egg rolls
- expert kitchen wisdom
- perfect presentation
- storage & make - ahead
- creative variations
- expert faq solutions
- complete nutrition guide
- Recipe Card
about introduction
santa fe egg rolls are a delightful fusion of flavors that pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of new mexico, combining traditional southwestern ingredients with the fun, crispy texture of egg rolls, this dish has become a favorite in homes and restaurants alike, the historical...
what sets these egg rolls apart is their mouthwatering filling packed with shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and an array of spices like cumin and cayenne pepper, this combination not only delivers bold flavors but also showcases the region's bountiful produce, they’re perfect for parties or as a satisfying appetizer at dinner gatherings a true crowd - pleaser. plus, you can whip them up quickly for any occasion .
the complete guide to authentic santa fe egg rolls
the culinary landscape surrounding santa fe is both rich and diverse, it boasts an incredible variety of influences that have shaped its distinct flavor profile over centuries, from native american traditions to spanish colonization, each element has contributed to what we know today as southwestern cuisine a melting pot bursting with vibrant colors and tantalizing tastes .
the fascinating origin story behind santa fe egg rolls adds another layer to this delicious dish, it’s believed that creative cooks started wrapping classic southwestern ingredients in egg roll wrappers due to a growing love for asian - inspired food during the 20th century truly an inventive twist on traditional fare. over time, these rolled delights gained traction across many communities beyond new mexico .
in modern - day cooking circles, santa fe egg rolls enjoy immense popularity thanks to their versatility; they can be served as appetizers at parties or light meals on busy weeknights, you can easily customize your fillings based on seasonal produce or dietary preferences while still enjoying those iconic southwest flavors.
why you'll love this version
you’ll absolutely love this version of santa fe egg rolls because it brings together unique flavor combinations that will keep your taste buds dancing. each bite offers layers of savory goodness think tender shredded chicken mingling with crunchy bell peppers and creamy beans all wrapped up in crispy perfection .
we’ve crafted foolproof techniques so anyone can master making these delightful treats right at home yes even if you're not yet confident in your cooking skills. our expert - tested method guarantees you’ll achieve golden - brown results every time without stress or fuss (because let’s face it : nobody wants kitchen chaos) .
and hey who doesn’t appreciate time - saving tips ? with our streamlined instructions designed for efficiency without compromising quality anymore means more moments spent enjoying good company rather than stuck slogging away over pots.
health & nutrition highlights
when it comes down to health benefits the nutritional value offered by these scrumptious bites shines through brightly. packed with protein - rich chicken alongside fiber - filled black beans plus nutrient - dense vegetables like corn provide essential vitamins necessary for overall wellness .
dietary considerations ? no problem here. whether you're looking for gluten - free options by swapping out regular wrappers with suitable alternatives or craving vegetarian versions filled solely with veggies you'll find plenty ways adapt accordingly while maintaining nutrition balance too.
don’t forget about those wellness advantages either : these delectable creations offer balanced macros making them ideal choices when seeking healthier snacks without sacrificing flavor satisfaction we all deserve indulgence now & then after all.
nutritional facts per serving :
- calories : ~320 kcal
- protein : ~21g
- carbohydrates : ~38g
- fat : ~12g
- fiber : ~5g
recipe at a glance
are you ready ? let’s dive into creating your very own batch of mouthwatering santa fe egg rolls. here’s everything you need :
total preparation time : just around 20 minutes
skill level required : medium (but totally doable.)
serving size details : makes four servings (two egg rolls per serving)
cost efficiency : budget - friendly meal option considering how much deliciousness you'll get outta this recipe.
with all these elements combined the history behind them; their cultural significance; unique twists on tradition you’re bound to fall head over heels for homemade santa fe egg rolls guaranteed every single time served warm fresh from frying pan straight onto plate… yum..
essential components guide
when making santa fe egg rolls, selecting the right ingredients is crucial for achieving that perfect flavor and texture, here’s your go - to guide for picking out those premium components, seasoning blends, smart substitutions, and kitchen equipment essentials .
premium core ingredients
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cooked chicken : you’ll need 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken works wonders here just shred it up. look for chicken with a nice golden color and juicy texture, store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3 - 4 days .
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black beans : grab ½ cup of black beans from a can or cook them from scratch, if you’re using canned beans (which i usually do for ease), make sure to rinse them well to cut down on sodium, they should be firm but tender when you bite into them, keep leftovers sealed in the fridge; they last about three days .
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corn kernels : use ½ cup of corn kernels fresh or frozen work just fine. fresh corn has that sweet crunch that's hard to beat, but frozen is super convenient if you're short on time, if you're storing fresh corn, keep it unshucked in the refrigerator's crisper drawer .
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red bell pepper : you’ll want half a red bell pepper finely diced, when choosing peppers, look for ones that are firm with smooth skin; avoid any with wrinkles or soft spots as they tend to spoil faster, store bell peppers whole in your fridge; they usually last up to a week .
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green onions : a quarter cup chopped green onions adds freshness and zing. look for bright green tops without wilting or browning at the ends, to store these beauties, wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel inside a plastic bag they stay crisp longer this way.
signature seasoning blend
now let’s sprinkle some magic into our santa fe egg rolls.
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ground cumin : this spice is key just one teaspoon brings warm earthiness to your filling. make sure it's fresh; old spices lose their punch quickly. store cumin tightly sealed away from light and heat .
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salt & pepper : these staples enhance all flavors but go easy on salt if you’ve used canned goods like beans already packed with sodium.
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cayenne pepper (optional) : if you like things spicy (like me.), add a dash of cayenne pepper but taste as you go so it doesn’t overwhelm everything else.
smart substitutions
sometimes life throws curveballs no worries.
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chicken alternatives : got ground turkey or beef ? go ahead and swap those in instead of shredded chicken. or use tofu if you're keeping it plant - based .
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vegetarian version : for my veggie friends out there, ditch the meat entirely and toss in more veggies like zucchini or mushrooms yummy.
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cheesy goodness : wanna kick it up another notch ? adding monterey jack cheese or even pepper jack for an extra creamy filling could take these egg rolls over - the - top delicious.
kitchen equipment essentials
before diving into cooking mode, ensure you've got all your tools ready :
1, mixing bowl : a large bowl will help combine everything easily . 1, cutting board & knife : for chopping veggies smoothly without stressing. 1, deep skillet/pot : you need something deep enough to fry those egg rolls right . 1, tongs/slotted spoon : perfect tools for flipping your egg rolls while frying they won't splash hot oil everywhere. 1, paper towels : for draining excess oil afterward because no one likes greasy food…unless it's fried chicken night.
pro ingredient tips
here are some insider tips i picked up along my cooking journey :
1, always opt for quality ingredients whenever possible it makes such a difference. 1, when buying spices like cumin or cayenne pepper, check expiration dates; fresher means better flavor . 1, consider bulk buying non - perishables like black beans which can save money long - term and store them properly by keeping them dry and cool . 1, never forget about seasonal produce options a ripe summer tomato could elevate your dipping sauce experience drastically compared to off - season choices .
alrighty friend - o, now that we’ve covered everything from core ingredients down to handy tips you’re armed with knowledge that'll make whipping up santa fe egg rolls not only fun but oh - so - delicious too. happy cooking and don’t forget to share some with me next time we meet up 😉
expert cooking method for santa fe egg rolls
making perfect santa fe egg rolls is easier than you might think. here’s your guide to achieving crispy, flavorful delights that will impress everyone at your next gathering, let’s dive into the essential preparation steps first .
essential preparation steps
mise en place details
before anything else, gather all your ingredients, you’ll need cooked chicken (shredded or rotisserie), black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green onions, cumin, and egg roll wrappers, measure everything out : 1 cup of chicken, ½ cup each of beans and corn, ½ diced bell pepper and ¼ cup chopped green onions, and don’t forget the spices.
prep techniques
start by shredding your chicken if it’s not pre - cooked, drain and rinse the black beans to remove excess sodium; this helps keep them from being too mushy in the filling, chop up those veggies finely this ensures every bite is packed with flavor .
time management
you can prep everything in about 15 minutes if you're organized. while chopping vegetables and mixing up the filling takes time upfront, it makes assembly much smoother later on .
organization tips
set up a clean workspace with bowls for each ingredient and a trash bowl nearby to catch scraps as you go, this keeps things tidy and efficient plus no one wants a messy countertop when they’re cooking.
professional cooking method
now that we’ve got our prep sorted out let’s move on to assembling those delicious egg rolls .
step - by - step process
1, mix : in a large bowl, combine shredded chicken with black beans, corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, chopped green onions, cumin along with salt & pepper . 1, wrap : lay an egg roll wrapper down diamond - style (one corner facing you), spoon...
temperature control
heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet until hot but not smoking around 350°f (175°c) should do it. if it's too hot you'll risk burning them outside while leaving them raw inside .
timing precision
fry each batch for about 3 - 4 minutes per side until golden brown it’s best not to overcrowd them or they'll steam instead of fry. a good indicator is when they start floating slightly they're getting crispier.
expert techniques
a few professional tricks can elevate your santa fe egg rolls from good to great.
critical steps
be mindful while sealing those wrappers; any gaps could lead to leaking fillings in hot oil a disaster waiting to happen. also ensure even distribution of filling so each roll cooks uniformly .
precision points
check oil temperature periodically if you have a kitchen thermometer handy use it. if not ? a small piece of bread dropped into oil should sizzle immediately; that means it's ready.
success strategies
once you've mastered these techniques there are always some troubleshooting tips worth knowing :
troubleshooting tips
if your egg rolls are soggy after frying try adjusting heat levels you may have had low temperatures causing grease absorption instead of crispiness.
quality assurance
always taste - test one after frying before serving they should be bursting with flavor but perfectly balanced between spicy & savory without overwhelming heat levels unless that's what you're aiming for.
perfect results guide
keep an eye on color rather than solely relying on timing; golden brown equals perfection here folks. if you find some browning faster than others simply adjust their position in pot mid - fry for even cooking throughout .
final touches
serve warm alongside salsa or chipotle ranch dressing it complements these tasty treats beautifully without overshadowing their fantastic flavors.
by following these expert methods step - by - step you’re set up for success making scrumptious santa fe egg rolls right at home happy cooking.
expert kitchen wisdom
when it comes to making santa fe egg rolls, a few professional insights can make all the difference, first off, always use fresh ingredients, it’s amazing how much flavor fresh veggies and quality chicken can add. you might be tempted to grab whatever you have in the fridge, but trust me freshness is key .
for expert techniques, consider prepping your filling ahead of time, not only does this save you hustle on cooking day, but letting the flavors meld overnight ? oh boy, that's where the magic happens. tossing everything into a bowl and mixing well ensures that each bite bursts with flavor .
now for some kitchen wisdom : keep an eye on your oil temperature, if it's too hot, you'll end up with burnt egg rolls; too cold and they'll be greasy, a simple kitchen thermometer is a handy tool here just aim for around 350°f (175°c) for optimal frying success.
perfect presentation
let’s talk about plating these beauties because presentation matters. to serve santa fe egg rolls like a pro, stack them neatly on a colorful plate or platter, you could even arrange them in a fan shape for an elegant touch .
garnish ideas ? fresh cilantro adds not just flavor but also pops of color. a drizzle of chipotle ranch dressing over the top takes it to another level visually and taste - wise too.
serving suggestions play into this as well; pair these rolls with avocado salad or maybe some zesty lime rice for balance, the visual appeal tip here is simple : contrast colors. bright reds from salsa against golden - brown egg rolls ? stunning .
storage & make - ahead
wondering about storage guidelines ? once you're done munching on those delicious santa fe egg rolls, let leftovers cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container, they'll last about three days in the fridge if they even make it that long.
as far as preservation methods go : freezing works wonders too. wrap individual cooled egg rolls tightly in plastic wrap before tossing them into freezer bags, they’ll stay good for up to three months.
when reheating instructions come into play, i suggest using an oven instead of microwaving trust me; nobody likes soggy leftovers. just pop them back at 375°f (190°c) until warm and crispy again .
freshness tips include checking your fillings regularly if stored longer than recommended, always give leftover food a quick sniff test i promise it'll save you from any unpleasant surprises later.
creative variations
feeling adventurous ? let’s dive into creative variations for your santa fe egg rolls. for flavor adaptations, try adding diced jalapeños or swapping out chicken for shredded pork or beef if you’re feeling bold .
dietary modifications are easy too a vegetarian version simply means ditching meat altogether while loading up on more veggies like zucchini and mushrooms or even sweet potatoes for sweetness.
seasonal twists can keep things exciting as well; think pumpkin puree during fall or roasted red peppers in summer so many options based on what’s ripe and ready when you cook.
regional variations could inspire fun themes as well; why not channel asian flavors by including cabbage slaw inside along with sesame oil ?
expert faq solutions
got common concerns while making these tasty treats ? no worries i’ve got answers right here. one question i hear often is whether homemade vs store - bought wrappers are better the answer depends on time versus taste preference but homemade wrappers definitely bring that extra love factor.
for troubleshooting guidance : if your filling leaks out during frying folks often panic it usually means either overstuffed wrappers or insufficient sealing so take care there next time around .
success tips include practicing patience while rolling each one tight enough so nothing escapes yet gentle enough they don’t tear apart easily either you get better every round though.
complete nutrition guide
lastly the complete nutrition guide gives insight into what you're enjoying guilt - free with those santa fe egg rolls, each serving packs roughly 320 calories loaded with protein thanks to chicken beans combo providing fiber goodness alongside essential nutrients that promote digestive health not bad right ?
health benefits don’t stop there either; customizing fillings allows incorporating seasonal produce rich vitamins helps support immune function throughout colder months ensuring we feel our best year - round and who doesn’t want that ?
portion guidance suggests two per serving makes perfect sense unless you've had one - too - many chips earlier then maybe stick with one it really depends how hungry everyone feels after tasting those crispy delights at dinner parties.
⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (or use rotisserie chicken)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Dash of cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- (10) egg roll wrappers for wrapping
- (Vegetable oil for frying)
- (For Dipping Sauce: Salsa or chipotle ranch dressing made with: Sour cream – ½ cup, Mayonnaise – ¼ cup, Chipotle in adobo sauce – 1 tablespoon minced, Lime juice – 1 tablespoon)
🥄 Instructions:
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, red bell pepper, green onions, cumin and season with salt and pepper. If you like some heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Step 2: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you.
- Step 3: Place about two tablespoons of filling at the center of the wrapper.
- Step 4: Fold up the bottom corner over the filling; then fold in both side corners tightly against it.
- Step 5: Roll it away from you towards the top corner while keeping it tight to form an egg roll.
- Step 6: Use a little water along the edges to seal them if necessary.
- Step 7: Fry each side until golden brown and crispy—about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Step 8: Transfer fried egg rolls onto paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Step 9: Serve warm with salsa or chipotle ranch dressing for dipping.
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