📝 About This Recipe
A quintessential example of Tex-Mex innovation, these Southwestern Egg Rolls wrap the vibrant, smoky flavors of the American Southwest inside a crisp, golden-brown Cantonese-style shell. Each bite is a masterclass in texture and taste, featuring zesty chicken, fire-roasted corn, black beans, and melted pepper jack cheese. It is a legendary appetizer that perfectly bridges the gap between Asian technique and Mexican-American soul.
🥗 Ingredients
The Filling
- 2 cups Chicken Breast (cooked and finely diced or shredded)
- 1 cup Frozen Corn (thawed and patted dry)
- 15 ounce can Black Beans (rinsed and drained thoroughly)
- 1/2 cup Spinach (fresh, finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Red Bell Pepper (finely minced)
- 1/4 cup Green Onions (thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons Pickled Jalapeños (minced)
- 1.5 cups Pepper Jack Cheese (freshly shredded)
The Spice Blend
- 1 teaspoon Cumin (ground)
- 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (mild or medium)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (optional for extra heat)
Assembly and Frying
- 16 pieces Egg Roll Wrappers (standard size)
- 1 quart Vegetable Oil (for deep frying)
- 1 Egg (beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash)
Avocado Ranch Dipping Sauce
- 1 large Avocado (ripe, pitted and peeled)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Cilantro (finely chopped)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare the filling by combining the diced chicken, corn, black beans, chopped spinach, red bell pepper, green onions, and minced jalapeños in a large mixing bowl.
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2
Sprinkle the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne over the mixture. Toss thoroughly to ensure every ingredient is evenly seasoned.
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3
Fold in the shredded pepper jack cheese until well distributed throughout the filling.
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4
Prepare your workstation: place the egg roll wrappers under a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out. Have your egg wash and a clean plate ready.
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5
Lay one egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape on a clean surface. Place approximately 3 tablespoons of filling in the center, shaping it into a horizontal log.
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6
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the left and right sides tightly. Brush the top corner with a small amount of egg wash.
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7
Roll the wrapper upward tightly to seal. Ensure there are no air pockets, as these can cause the rolls to burst during frying.
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8
Repeat the process until all filling is used, keeping the finished rolls covered with a damp towel.
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9
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
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10
While the oil heats, make the dipping sauce by blending the avocado, sour cream, mayonnaise, lime juice, and cilantro in a food processor until smooth. Chill until serving.
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11
Carefully lower 3-4 egg rolls into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot, as this will drop the oil temperature and lead to greasy rolls.
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12
Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the wrappers are a deep golden brown and blistered.
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13
Remove the rolls with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (this keeps them crispier than paper towels).
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14
Allow the rolls to rest for 2 minutes, then slice them diagonally across the center to reveal the colorful filling.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always drain your black beans and corn exceptionally well; excess moisture is the enemy of a crispy egg roll. If you prefer a shortcut, use a store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling. To test if the oil is ready without a thermometer, dip the handle of a wooden spoon in; if it bubbles steadily, the oil is ready. For a healthier version, brush the rolls with oil and air-fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through. Ensure your cheese is freshly grated; pre-shredded cheese is coated in potato starch which can affect the melt and texture.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a cold Mexican Lager with a lime wedge to cut through the richness. Pair with a side of Mexican Street Corn (Elote) for a full Tex-Mex feast. Offer extra dipping options like a smoky chipotle aioli or a bright mango salsa. Arrange on a platter with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a beautiful presentation.