Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls

Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls Recipe from China

Region / culture: China | Servings: 12

Introduction

Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls are a delicious and nutritious appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of tofu, spinach, and rice in a crispy egg roll wrapper. These egg rolls are perfect for a party or as a light meal.

History

Egg rolls are a popular dish in Chinese cuisine, typically filled with a mixture of vegetables, meat, and sometimes noodles. This recipe puts a healthy twist on the traditional egg roll by using tofu and spinach as the main ingredients.

Ingredients

1 tbsp sesame oil
4 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp grated fresh ginger root
1 x 10.5 oz (298 g) package firm tofu, cut into 0.25 inch cubes
3 cups cooked rice
1 x 10 oz (283 g) package frozen spinach, thawed and drained
1 large carrot, grated
2 tbsp sherry
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp salt
12 egg roll skins
oil for frying
hot mustard and sweet and sour sauce

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger for 3 minutes.
Add tofu and stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes over medium-high heat.
Add rice, spinach, and carrot; cook until heated through.
Add sherry, soy sauce, and salt; continue to stir-fry for 5 minutes or until all the liquid evaporates.
Remove from heat.
Place an egg roll skin diagonally on a dry work surface.
Spoon 0.33 cup of the spinach/rice mixture slightly below the center towards the bottom corner.
Fold up the lower corner to cover the filling and firmly roll up the filling towards the center. Then fold over the right and left corners, roll over, and brush with cold water to seal.
Heat oil in a deep fat fryer to 375°F (191°C).
Carefully drop in the egg rolls and fry until golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
Serve with hot mustard and Sweet-and-Sour sauce.

Variations

Add diced mushrooms or bell peppers to the filling for extra flavor.
Use different types of greens like kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach.
Experiment with different seasonings like curry powder or chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the tofu well before using it in the recipe to remove excess moisture.

- Thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to prevent the egg rolls from becoming soggy.

- Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with enough oil to fully submerge the egg rolls for even frying.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls with hot mustard and sweet-and-sour sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Stir-frying the tofu and vegetables helps to develop their flavors and textures.

- Deep-frying the egg rolls gives them a crispy and golden exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or shrimp instead of tofu for a non-vegetarian version.

- Substitute brown rice for white rice for added fiber and nutrients.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the filling for the egg rolls ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and fry.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs or sliced green onions for an attractive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spinach is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like iron and calcium. Tofu is rich in protein and contains essential minerals like calcium and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy (from tofu) and wheat (from egg roll skins), which are common allergens.

Summary

Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls are a nutritious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a snack or appetizer.

Summary

Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls are a tasty and healthy dish that is easy to make at home. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful filling, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or light meal for a delicious and satisfying dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all I could about cooking. My passion for food had been ignited by my grandmother, who was a wonderful cook herself. She would spend hours in the kitchen, creating delicious dishes that would fill our home with mouthwatering aromas.

One day, while flipping through an old cookbook that belonged to my grandmother, I stumbled upon a recipe that caught my eye. It was for Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls, a dish that I had never heard of before. Intrigued by the combination of ingredients, I decided to give it a try.

I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. As I chopped the spinach and tofu, the vibrant green color of the spinach and the soft texture of the tofu caught my attention. I could already imagine how delicious this dish would be.

I followed the recipe carefully, mixing the spinach and tofu with a blend of spices and seasonings. The aroma that wafted from the pan as I cooked the mixture was intoxicating. I could hardly wait to taste the finished product.

When the egg rolls were finally ready, I eagerly took a bite. The crispy exterior gave way to a warm, savory filling that was bursting with flavor. The spinach added a fresh, earthy taste, while the tofu provided a creamy texture that perfectly complemented the dish. It was love at first bite.

From that moment on, Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls became a regular dish in my cooking repertoire. I would make them for family gatherings, dinner parties, or simply as a special treat for myself. Each time I cooked them, I would think back to that first time I discovered the recipe and the sense of wonder that it had sparked in me.

Over the years, I have added my own personal touches to the recipe, experimenting with different seasonings and variations. I have also shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the joy and excitement that I felt when I first learned how to make Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls.

But no matter how many times I cook this dish, it will always hold a special place in my heart. It reminds me of the magic of cooking, the joy of discovering new flavors, and the love that I have for sharing my passion with others.

As I sit here now, thinking back on that moment when I first saw the recipe for Spinach and Tofu Egg Rolls, I am filled with gratitude for all the wonderful experiences that cooking has brought into my life. And I can't help but smile, knowing that this recipe will continue to be a beloved favorite for many years to come.