Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce

Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 3 minutes per batch | Servings: 12 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

The Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce is a delightful fusion dish that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the crispy exterior of an egg roll, all complemented by a spicy and savory duck sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love to explore different cuisines and enjoy a mix of textures and flavors in their meals. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or looking for a unique appetizer, this dish is sure to impress.

History

The Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce is a modern creation that draws inspiration from both Asian and Mexican cuisines. The concept of an egg roll is deeply rooted in Chinese cooking, traditionally filled with cabbage and pork. However, this recipe takes a creative twist by incorporating avocados, a fruit that is central to Mexican cuisine, into the filling. The spicy duck sauce adds an additional layer of complexity, making this dish a testament to the fusion of culinary traditions.

Ingredients

4 cups chopped red onion
3 tbsp vegetable oil
3 tbsp finely chopped garlic
1.25 cups fresh lime juice
6 oz (170 g) dried tomato (packed in oil), chopped
0.33 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1.5 tbsp ground cumin
1.5 tbsp salt
6 lb (2.72 kg) california avocados, cut into 0.5 inch cubes
24 egg roll wrappers (6 inches)

Spicy duck sauce

3.5 cups Chinese duck sauce
1 heaping cup (7 oz (198 g)) roasted cashews
0.33 cup chopped cilantro
1.5 tsp crushed red pepper
1 tsp salt

How to prepare

Sauté the onion in oil until it becomes soft, which should take about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Remove from heat and stir in lime juice, tomato, cilantro, cumin, and salt. Fold in the avocado.
Allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature.
For each roll, place an egg roll wrapper on a work surface with the corner at the top.
Spread 0.5 cup of the cooled filling in a line from left to right in the center of the wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border on each side.
Fold the top corner over the filling and then fold in the sides.
Roll once toward the bottom corner.
Moisten the remaining corner with water and press firmly to roll.
Place the rolls on a lightly floured sheet pan with the sealed side down.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Note: The egg rolls can be prepared up to this point a few hours before serving.

Per order

Deep fry 2 egg rolls at 375°F (191°C) until they turn golden brown, which should take about 3 minutes.
Cut the rolls on the diagonal.
Serve immediately with 3 tbsp of sauce.

Spicy duck sauce

Stir together Chinese duck sauce, roasted cashews, chopped cilantro, crushed red pepper, and salt.
Let the mixture stand for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to blend.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the duck sauce and serve with a sweet chili sauce instead. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers or corn, for added texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when making Avocado Egg Rolls with Spicy Duck Sauce, consider the following tips:

- Use ripe but firm avocados to prevent the filling from becoming too mushy.

- When folding the egg rolls, make sure to seal them tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.

- Fry the egg rolls in batches to maintain the oil temperature, ensuring each one is evenly golden and crispy.

- Let the spicy duck sauce sit for at least 3 hours to allow the flavors to meld together for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

These Avocado Egg Rolls are best served hot and crispy, straight from the fryer. They can be cut diagonally and arranged on a platter, accompanied by a bowl of the spicy duck sauce for dipping. Garnish with additional chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying is the recommended cooking technique for achieving the perfect golden and crispy exterior of the egg rolls. However, for a healthier option, you can bake the egg rolls in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until they are crispy, turning once halfway through cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're unable to find Chinese duck sauce, a good substitute would be a combination of plum sauce and hoisin sauce. For a nut-free version of the sauce, roasted sesame seeds can replace the cashews.

Make Ahead Tips

The filling for the egg rolls can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The spicy duck sauce can also be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to develop further.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the egg rolls on a bed of lettuce leaves, with the spicy duck sauce on the side. Garnish with lime wedges and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Avocado Egg Rolls with a light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco to complement the richness of the avocado and the spice of the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until crispy and heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the fats and carbohydrates present in the dish.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this dish are the egg roll wrappers and the red onions.

Fats

This dish is relatively high in fats, primarily due to the avocados and vegetable oil used in the recipe. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, with a significant portion being monounsaturated fats from the avocados, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits.

Proteins

The Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce provides a modest amount of protein, with each serving containing approximately 6 grams. The proteins come from the avocados and the small amount present in the egg roll wrappers.

Vitamins and minerals

Avocados are a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, and this dish is no exception. It is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients contribute to the overall health benefits of the dish, supporting heart health, immune function, and more.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as nuts (cashews) and gluten (from the egg roll wrappers). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternative ingredients.

Summary

Overall, the Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce is a flavorful dish that offers a good balance of nutrients. While it is higher in fats, the majority are healthy fats from avocados. It also provides a decent amount of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for an appetizer or snack.

Summary

The Avocado Egg Roll with Spicy Duck Sauce is a unique and flavorful dish that combines the creamy texture of avocado with the crispiness of an egg roll, all enhanced by a spicy duck sauce. With its fusion of flavors and textures, it's a perfect appetizer for any occasion. By following the tips and variations provided, you can easily customize this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Mary at her beach house. She had invited me for lunch, and as we sat out on the deck overlooking the ocean, she brought out a plate of these beautiful avocado egg rolls with a dipping sauce that had my mouth watering.

I asked Mary where she had learned to make such a delicious dish, and she told me that she had come across the recipe at a restaurant in San Francisco. The combination of creamy avocado and crispy egg roll wrapper, paired with the spicy duck sauce, was simply irresistible. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make them myself.

After that day, I made it my mission to perfect the recipe for avocado egg rolls with spicy duck sauce. I scoured cookbooks, watched cooking shows, and even reached out to friends and family members for tips and advice. I experimented with different ingredients and techniques, trying to recreate the flavors that had captivated me that summer day.

One day, while rummaging through my collection of old cookbooks, I came across a tattered and stained recipe card tucked away in between the pages. It was for avocado egg rolls with spicy duck sauce. I couldn't believe my luck! It seemed like fate had brought this recipe into my hands, and I knew that I had to give it a try.

I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work in the kitchen. The smell of frying egg rolls filled the air, and I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation building inside me. As I dipped the first crispy roll into the tangy duck sauce, I knew that I had finally nailed it. The flavors were spot on, just like I remembered from that day at the beach house.

I made the avocado egg rolls with spicy duck sauce for my family and friends, and they were an instant hit. Everyone raved about how delicious they were, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered the recipe that had captured my heart.

Over the years, I continued to make the avocado egg rolls with spicy duck sauce for special occasions and gatherings. Each time, they were met with the same enthusiasm and praise. I had become known as the avocado egg roll queen among my friends, and I wore that title with pride.

As I look back on my journey to perfecting this recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for all the people and experiences that have contributed to my culinary knowledge. From Mary and her beach house lunch to that old recipe card hidden in my cookbook, each moment has played a part in shaping my skills as a cook.

Now, as I pass on this recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and satisfaction in making these avocado egg rolls with spicy duck sauce as I have. Remember to savor each bite and appreciate the memories that come with it. Cooking is not just about following a recipe, but about creating moments of warmth and connection with those you love.

And who knows, maybe one day you'll have a story of your own to tell about how you learned to make a beloved recipe. Until then, happy cooking and bon appétit!