Fresh Lumpia

Fresh Lumpia Recipe - Traditional Philippines Dish

Region / culture: Philippines | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 15-20

Introduction

Fresh Lumpia is a popular Filipino dish that consists of a savory filling wrapped in a thin crepe-like wrapper. It is often served as an appetizer or snack, and is loved for its fresh and light flavors.

History

Fresh Lumpia has its origins in Chinese cuisine, but has been adapted and transformed into a beloved Filipino dish. It is a staple at family gatherings, parties, and celebrations, and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

Ingredients

1 clove of garlic, minced
1 medium onion, diced
2 tbsp of vegetable oil
0.5 lb (227 g) of pork, diced
0.5 cup of water
1 tbsp of fish sauce
1 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of pepper
1 medium potato, peeled and diced
0.5 cup of French-cut green beans
0.5 cup of shredded cabbage
0.5 cup of sliced jicama
0.5 cup of shelled peanuts, toasted and chopped
0.5 cup of peeled and diced shrimp
15-20 small lettuce leaves
15-20 lumpia wrappers
3-4 tbsp of minced garlic

Lumpia Wrapper

3 eggs
0.25 tsp of salt
2 cups of flour
2 cups of milk
0.25 cup of vegetable oil

How to prepare

Lumpia Wrapper

Combine eggs and salt. Gradually add flour, alternating with milk. Beat with a whisk until smooth. Beat in oil gradually. Refrigerate batter for 1 hour.
Brush a nonstick crepe pan with oil and place over low heat. Ladle in 2 tbsp of batter, swirl to cover the pan and pour off excess. Cook until the wrapper can be lifted (if the batter bubbles, the pan is too hot). Turn and cook just to warm the other side. This recipe makes 20 wrappers.

Lumpia Sauce

Combine the first four ingredients and bring to a light boil.
Add cornstarch and stir until thickened. Remove from heat, then stir in garlic. This recipe makes 1.5 cups of sauce.

Lumpia Filling

Saute garlic and onions in oil. Add pork and saute until the fat begins to render. Add water, bring to a boil, reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Add fish sauce, salt, pepper, and potato. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Add vegetables, peanuts, and shrimp. Stir-fry for 5-10 minutes. Allow the filling to cool.

To assemble

Place a lettuce leaf in the center of a wrapper. Add 2 tbsp of filling. Fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then wrap one side over the filling and roll to the other side. The edge of the lettuce will stick out. Seal the edge with water. Wrap each lumpia in wax paper. Serve with sauce and minced garlic or peanuts.
This recipe makes 15-20 spring rolls.

Variations

You can customize the filling of Fresh Lumpia by adding different vegetables or proteins such as tofu or chicken.
You can also experiment with different sauces or toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the filling until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

- Use a nonstick crepe pan to make the lumpia wrappers, and be sure to cook them over low heat to prevent burning.

- Seal the edges of the lumpia wrappers with water to ensure they stay closed during frying.

Serving Suggestions

Fresh Lumpia is best served with a side of lumpia sauce and minced garlic or peanuts for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Saute the filling ingredients until they are cooked through but still retain their crunch.

- Cook the lumpia wrappers over low heat to prevent burning and ensure they are pliable for wrapping.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the pork with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.

- You can also use different vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms in the filling.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the lumpia wrappers and filling ahead of time and assemble the Fresh Lumpia just before serving.

- Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Fresh Lumpia on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or edible flowers for a beautiful presentation. - Arrange the lumpia in a decorative pattern on the plate for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Fresh Lumpia pairs well with a side of steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Fresh Lumpia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the lumpia in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Fresh Lumpia contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Fresh Lumpia contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Fresh Lumpia contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Fresh Lumpia contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Fresh Lumpia is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

Fresh Lumpia contains peanuts and shrimp, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Fresh Lumpia is a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Fresh Lumpia is a delicious and nutritious Filipino dish that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful filling wrapped in a delicate crepe-like wrapper, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this fresh and light dish as an appetizer, snack, or main course.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a hot summer day and I was wandering through the bustling streets of Manila, taking in all the sights and sounds of the busy city. As I walked past a small food stall, the delicious aroma of cooking wafted towards me, drawing me in like a moth to a flame.

I approached the stall and saw a kind old woman standing behind a makeshift kitchen, deftly wrapping thin crepes around a medley of fresh vegetables and shrimp. I watched in awe as she skillfully folded the crepe into a neat little package, topping it off with a drizzle of sweet and tangy sauce.

I couldn't resist the temptation and ordered a serving of the fresh lumpia. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures that I had never experienced before. The crunch of the vegetables, the succulent shrimp, and the delicate crepe all melded together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that was truly unforgettable.

I knew in that moment that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. I approached the old woman and asked her if she would be willing to share her recipe with me. To my delight, she agreed, and invited me to watch as she prepared another batch of fresh lumpia.

As I observed her every move, I took mental notes of the ingredients and techniques she used. She explained to me that the key to a delicious fresh lumpia lies in the freshness of the ingredients and the balance of flavors in the sauce. She also shared with me her secret ingredient – a pinch of love, she called it.

After spending hours in her kitchen, I finally felt confident enough to try making fresh lumpia on my own. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and set to work, channeling the old woman's expertise and passion into my cooking.

As I chopped, sautéed, and assembled the ingredients, I felt a sense of pride and fulfillment wash over me. It was as if I had unlocked a hidden talent that had been lying dormant within me all this time.

When I finally took my first bite of the fresh lumpia I had made, I was overjoyed. It tasted just as delicious as the old woman's version, if not better. I knew then that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in my culinary repertoire for years to come.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for fresh lumpia, adding my own twist to the dish while staying true to the old woman's original recipe. I have shared this dish with friends and family, who have all raved about its delectable flavors and textures.

Every time I make fresh lumpia, I am reminded of that fateful day in Manila when I stumbled upon the recipe that would change my life forever. I am grateful to the old woman who shared her knowledge and passion with me, and I hope to pass on this recipe to future generations so that they too can experience the joy of creating something truly special in the kitchen.