How do you prepare and then cook lumpia from scratch?

Making Lumpia from Scratch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Lumpia, also known as spring rolls, are a delicious and versatile dish enjoyed throughout Southeast Asia. Here's a comprehensive guide to making lumpia from scratch, with tips for both the wrapper and the filling:

1. Preparing the Lumpia Wrappers:

Ingredients:

* 2 cups all-purpose flour

* 1 teaspoon salt

* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

* 1 cup hot water

* 1 tablespoon cornstarch, dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water (for brushing)

Instructions:

* Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.

* Make a well: Create a well in the center of the flour mixture.

* Add oil and hot water: Pour the vegetable oil into the well, followed by the hot water, gradually whisking as you pour.

* Knead the dough: Once the dough comes together, knead it on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.

* Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

* Roll out the wrappers: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll out each portion into a thin, round sheet (about 6 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin.

* Brush with cornstarch: Brush the surface of each wrapper with the cornstarch mixture to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the Lumpia Filling:

Ingredients:

* 1 pound ground pork

* 1 cup finely chopped onions

* 2 cloves garlic, minced

* 1/2 cup chopped carrots

* 1/2 cup chopped cabbage

* 1/4 cup soy sauce

* 1 tablespoon fish sauce

* 1 teaspoon sugar

* 1 teaspoon black pepper

* 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions:

* Sauté the vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

* Add the pork: Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

* Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the carrots, cabbage, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

* Season and cool: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Let the filling cool slightly before assembling the lumpia.

3. Assembling and Cooking the Lumpia:

Instructions:

* Place filling on wrappers: Place a heaping tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.

* Fold and seal: Fold one side of the wrapper over the filling and tuck the edges in. Continue folding the wrapper in the opposite direction, creating a roll. Secure the end with a small amount of water or cornstarch paste.

* Deep fry or pan-fry:

* Deep frying: Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully drop a few lumpia at a time into the hot oil and fry for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

* Pan frying: Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the lumpia for 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

* Serve: Lumpia are best served hot, with dipping sauces such as sweet chili sauce, peanut sauce, or soy sauce.

Tips:

* Lumpia wrappers: You can also use commercially available lumpia wrappers for convenience.

* Filling variations: Feel free to get creative with your lumpia fillings! Try adding shrimp, chicken, vegetables, or tofu.

* Freezing: You can freeze uncooked lumpia for later use. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag.

Enjoy your homemade lumpia!