Name: Copycat Southwest Egg Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; ¾ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed; ¾ cup canned corn, drained; ¾ cup small-diced red bell pepper; ½ cup finely chopped fresh baby spinach; 2 scallions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapenos; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Egg roll wrappers; Peanut oil for frying (about 3-4 inches depth or enough for deep frying); Water (for sealing wrappers)

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Introduction

These Copycat Southwest Egg Rolls are packed with vibrant flavors and a delightful crunch. Filled with seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, they make a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.

A white round plate filled with several golden-brown samosas, each cut in half to show the colorful filling inside, which includes dark green spinach, orange carrots, and red spices. The samosas are arranged neatly around a small white bowl of light green dipping sauce with fresh cilantro leaves on top. Fresh cilantro leaves are scattered on the samosas and around the plate. The plate is sitting on a white marbled surface, and in the background, there are two small yellow caps and a partially visible drink. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup finely chopped cooked chicken
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
¾ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
¾ cup canned corn, drained
¾ cup small-diced red bell pepper
½ cup finely chopped fresh baby spinach
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon chopped pickled jalapenos
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Egg roll wrappers
Peanut oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cheese, black beans, corn, bell pepper, spinach, scallions, jalapenos, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
Step 2: Pour some water into a small bowl; this will be used to seal the egg roll wrappers.
Step 3: Heat peanut oil in a deep fryer or a Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring about 3-4 inches of oil for frying.
Step 4: Place one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you. Spoon about ¼ cup of the filling mixture into the bottom middle of the wrapper.
Step 5: Roll the bottom corner tightly over the filling, then fold the left and right sides over the filling. Dip your fingertip in water and moisten the final exposed corner to seal the roll. Continue rolling tightly until fully sealed.
Step 6: Place each rolled egg roll on a parchment-lined sheet tray and repeat until all filling is used.
Step 7: Fry the egg rolls in batches, being careful not to crowd the pan. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
Step 8: Remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. For extra crispiness, transfer to a wire rack set over a sheet tray to catch drips.
Step 9: Once slightly cooled, cut the egg rolls diagonally and serve with avocado ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

Use egg roll wrappers rather than wonton wrappers for the proper texture and size.
Try different cheeses like cheddar, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack for varied flavor.
Substitute or add small-diced vegetables such as avocado, red cabbage, kale, mushrooms, or other canned beans, but avoid watery vegetables like tomatoes to keep the filling crisp.
Other filling options include cilantro lime rice, Spanish rice, or cooked quinoa for a twist.

Storage

These egg rolls are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake in a 375°F oven until warmed through and crisp again. Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture and crunch.

How to Serve

A white plate filled with several golden-brown samosas cut open to show a colorful filling of red, orange, and black ingredients, possibly vegetables and spices, garnished with fresh green cilantro leaves sprinkled on top and scattered around the plate. Next to the samosas is a small white bowl of light green sauce with a smooth texture, garnished with green herbs. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface with a vibrant teal background, a yellow bottle cap, and a partial view of a yellow bottle visible at the edge. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Baking is possible for a lighter option; place egg rolls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crispy. However, frying gives the classic crunchy texture.

How do I prevent the egg rolls from becoming soggy?

Ensure all vegetables are well drained and avoid watery ingredients like fresh tomatoes. Fry egg rolls in hot oil without overcrowding the pan and drain them on paper towels followed by a wire rack to keep them crisp.