Description
Crispy Air Fryer Rice Paper Rolls are a delicious and healthier twist on traditional fried rolls. These rolls are filled with a savory stir-fry mixture of tofu, garlic, ginger, shredded cabbage, and carrot, then air fried to achieve a perfectly crispy texture without the need for deep frying. Served with a flavorful soy-based dipping sauce, they make a perfect appetizer or light meal that’s quick to prepare and satisfyingly crunchy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari/shoyu (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (optional but recommended)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon sugar
For the Stir Fry Filling
- ½ block extra-firm tofu pressed (around 200g/7oz)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 small carrot, shredded
For the Rolls
- 8 rice paper sheets
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Filling: Press the extra-firm tofu to remove excess moisture and crumble it into small pieces. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Tofu and Vegetables: Add the crumbled tofu to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned. Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrot, and sauté for another 3-5 minutes until vegetables are softened. Pour in half of the prepared sauce and mix well. Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
- Assemble the Rolls: Fill a large shallow dish with warm water. Dip one rice paper sheet into the water for about 10 seconds until pliable, then lay it flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the tofu and vegetable filling near the bottom edge of the rice paper. Fold the sides over the filling and then roll tightly to seal. Repeat with the remaining rice papers and filling.
- Air Fry the Rolls: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the rolls with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to enhance crispiness. Place the rice paper rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the rolls carefully and serve hot with the remaining dipping sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Pressing tofu is essential to remove excess moisture and ensure a better texture in the filling.
- If you don’t have Shaoxing wine, you can substitute with dry sherry or omit it for a milder sauce.
- Rice paper is delicate; do not soak for too long to prevent tearing.
- You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling according to preference.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crisping of the rolls.
Keywords: Crispy rice paper rolls, air fryer recipe, vegetarian appetizers, tofu rolls, healthy snacks, Asian-inspired, tofu stir fry