There’s something utterly satisfying about biting into a hot, crispy egg roll, especially when it’s filled with juicy pulled pork and zesty coleslaw. This recipe, which I stumbled upon during a recent dinner party prep, brings a playful twist to a classic favorite that’s perfect for any occasion—be it game night, a potluck, or a casual family dinner.
Imagine the crunch of the golden wrapper giving way to rich, smoky pork and a crisp tang from the coleslaw, all elevated by a drizzle of your favorite BBQ sauce. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice looking to break free from the fast-food routine, these Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls are here to rescue your meal plan and impress your loved ones. Plus, with simple substitutions available—like swapping in jackfruit for a vegan dream or using rice paper wrappers for gluten-free fun—everyone can enjoy these delightful bites. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into a recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Why are Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls irresistible?
Irresistible Crunch: These egg rolls provide a satisfying crunch with every bite, all while being packed with flavor.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of juicy pulled pork and tangy coleslaw creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that dazzles the palate.
Versatile Options: Enjoy all dietary preferences with easy substitutions, like jackfruit for vegan eaters, making it inclusive for all!
Perfect for Sharing: Great as an appetizer or a main dish, they’re sure to impress friends and family at any gathering.
Quick and Easy: With simple prep and air frying, you can have these delightful bites on the table in no time!
Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls Ingredients
For the Egg Rolls
- Egg Roll Wrappers – Create a crunchy exterior for the filling. Substitution: Use rice paper wrappers for a gluten-free version.
- Pulled Pork – Provides moisture and flavor. Substitution: Use shredded chicken for a lighter option or shredded jackfruit for a vegan alternative.
- Coleslaw – Adds crunch and tang. Note: You can use pre-made coleslaw mix for convenience.
- BBQ Sauce – Enhances flavor with sweetness and smokiness. Tip: Select your favorite BBQ sauce for a personalized touch.
- Cheese – Adds creaminess and richness. Optional or can be substituted with a vegan cheese alternative.
- Mayonnaise (or Greek Yogurt) – Contributes creaminess to the dipping sauce. Substitution: Vegan mayonnaise is an option for those avoiding eggs.
For the Dipping Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Adds umami flavor to the dipping sauce. Consider using a gluten-free version if necessary.
- Honey or Agave – Provides a touch of sweetness. For vegan options, use agave syrup instead of honey.
- Garlic Powder – Elevates the flavor profile of your dipping sauce. Feel free to add fresh garlic for an extra kick!
These Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls are sure to be a hit at your table! Enjoy the deliciousness with these carefully selected ingredients that cater to various dietary needs.
How to Make Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
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Prepare the Dipping Sauce: In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey or agave, and garlic powder until smooth. Chill it in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld for at least 15 minutes.
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Fill the Egg Rolls: Lay out your egg roll wrappers on a clean surface. In the center of each wrapper, add a tablespoon of coleslaw, ¼ cup of pulled pork, 2 teaspoons of BBQ sauce, and a tablespoon of cheese if using.
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Roll the Egg Rolls: Moisten the edges of the wrappers with water. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, roll tightly, fold in the sides, and seal securely to form a neat package.
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Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the egg rolls in a single layer (working in batches if needed), spray with nonstick spray, and air fry for 2-3 minutes. Flip them, spray again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they are golden brown.
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Serve: Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Plate them warm and enjoy paired with the chilled dipping sauce.
Optional: Garnish with finely chopped green onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
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Seal Effectively: Ensure the edges of the wrappers are well-moistened to prevent them from opening during cooking, keeping your juicy pulled pork intact.
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Cooking Time Variations: Adjust air frying times based on the filling; shredded jackfruit or chicken may cook quicker than traditional pulled pork, ensuring a perfect outcome.
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Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy parts; give them room to crisp.
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Season Your Fillings: Don’t shy away from seasoning your pulled pork! A dash of extra spices can elevate the flavor in your juicy pulled pork egg rolls.
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Try Different Sauces: Experiment with various BBQ sauces or even Asian-inspired dipping sauces to bring out new flavors and keep meals exciting and varied!
Make Ahead Options
These Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling—pulled pork, coleslaw, and BBQ sauce—up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. For best results, keep the wrappers separate until you’re ready to assemble, as this keeps the wrappers from getting soggy. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill and roll the egg rolls, then air fry for 4-6 minutes until golden brown. This way, you can enjoy a delicious treat with minimal effort, making it a lifesaver on busy weeks!
What to Serve with Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls?
Looking to elevate your meal? Pair these delicious egg rolls with complementary sides that enhance their crunchy and flavorful appeal.
- Crispy Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness and soft interior balance the savory pork, making every bite a joyful surprise.
- Asian Slaw: A light, tangy slaw with sesame dressing adds fresh crunch to your plate and resonates with the egg rolls’ filling.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: This sticky yet spicy dip accentuates the richness of the pulled pork, creating a deliciously zesty experience.
- Garlic Edamame: These tender young soybeans are packed with flavor and add a protein-rich option that pairs perfectly with the egg rolls.
- Creamy Avocado Dip: Earthy and rich, this dip introduces a smooth texture that complements the crispy exterior of the egg rolls.
- Chilled Cucumber Salad: Fresh, crisp cucumbers tossed in a simple vinegar dressing provide refreshing notes and cleanse the palate beautifully.
- Lemonade Sparkler: The bright and bubbly citrus drink adds a zesty twist, invigorating your meal and keeping things light and fun!
- Mango Sorbet: As a light dessert, it offers a sweet and fruity finale, perfectly contrasting the savory flavors of your main dish.
Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls Variations
Customization is the key to making these delightful egg rolls your own, so let your creativity flow!
- Vegan Option: Substitute pulled pork with barbecue-marinated jackfruit for a delicious plant-based twist.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use rice paper wrappers instead of egg roll wrappers, resulting in a lighter and equally tasty version.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: Opt for vegan cheese alternatives to keep your egg rolls creamy without dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the filling for an extra heat level that will excite your taste buds.
- Zesty Citrus: Mix in some lime zest to the coleslaw for a fresh burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
- Lean Protein: Swap the pulled pork for shredded chicken or turkey if you’re looking for a lighter filling option.
- Crunchy Veggie Boost: Toss in finely chopped bell peppers or carrots to the coleslaw for added texture and flavor.
- Asian Fusion: Add sesame oil and minced ginger to the filling for a unique flavor profile that amps up the Asian-inspired twist.
Embrace the freedom to adjust these delightful egg rolls to suit your tastes and dietary preferences!
How to Store and Freeze Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture intact.
Wrapping: If freezing, wrap each egg roll individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls Recipe FAQs
What type of pork should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For a juicy and flavorful experience, I recommend using pork shoulder or butt for the best results. These cuts are marbled with fat, which keeps the meat moist as it cooks. You can also use pre-cooked pulled pork if you’re short on time—just ensure it’s well-seasoned!
How should I store leftover egg rolls?
To keep your delicious Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their crispiness. If you find the filling is a bit soggy after storing, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a couple of minutes to regain that delightful crunch!
Can I freeze the egg rolls? How?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to save extra egg rolls. First, place the cooked egg rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. This usually takes about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and they can be stored for up to 3 months. For reheating, air fry at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this recipe. For gluten-free egg rolls, use rice paper wrappers instead of traditional egg roll wrappers. If anyone is avoiding meat, I often substitute pulled pork with shredded jackfruit, which absorbs flavors beautifully and provides a similar texture. Always double-check your BBQ sauce and mayonnaise choices for any allergens.
What if my egg rolls don’t seal properly?
No worries! If your Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls aren’t sealing properly, it might be because the edges aren’t damp enough. Make sure to moisten the edges of the wrappers thoroughly before rolling. If they still don’t seal, use a bit of cornstarch mixed with water as a paste to help stick them together better!
Can I make my own dipping sauce?
Definitely! Making your own dipping sauce is an excellent way to tailor flavors. Mix soy sauce with honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option), and add garlic powder for an added kick. For something richer, try adding a sprinkle of sesame oil or a splash of rice vinegar to elevate the flavor profile. Enjoy experimenting!
Savory Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, mix together soy sauce, honey or agave, and garlic powder until smooth. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.
- Lay out egg roll wrappers. In the center of each, add a tablespoon of coleslaw, ¼ cup of pulled pork, 2 teaspoons of BBQ sauce, and a tablespoon of cheese if using.
- Moisten the edges of the wrappers with water. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, roll tightly, fold in sides, and seal securely.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place egg rolls in a single layer, spray with nonstick spray, and air fry for 2-3 minutes. Flip, spray again, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Plate warm and enjoy with the chilled dipping sauce.