Spring Rolls with Turkey

Chinese Spring Rolls with Turkey Recipe

Region / culture: China | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spring rolls with turkey are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of tender turkey, crunchy vegetables, and savory seasonings all wrapped up in a crispy spring roll wrapper. This recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful meal or as a tasty appetizer for a gathering with friends and family.

History

Spring rolls have a long history in Asian cuisine, with origins dating back to ancient China. Traditionally, spring rolls were made with a variety of fillings, including vegetables, meats, and sometimes even fruits. Over time, different regions developed their own unique variations of spring rolls, each with its own distinct flavors and ingredients.

Ingredients

2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tsp roasted sesame oil
1.33 cups green onion, sliced
1 large red bell pepper, julienned
2 tsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tsp fresh garlic, minced
8 oz (227 g) fresh bean sprouts
4 tsp cornstarch
0.33 cup water
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 lb (454 g) pulled turkey, thawed, cut into 0.25 inch strips
6 cups leaf lettuce, julienned
30 spring roll wrappers
as needed vegetable oil for frying

How to prepare

Heat the oils in a large sauté pan over high heat.
Add the green onion and red pepper, and cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
Add the ginger and garlic, and sauté for one minute.
Add the bean sprouts, and sauté for one minute.
Blend the cornstarch, water, soy sauce, and sugar together.
Add the turkey, lettuce, and cornstarch mixture to the pan, and cook, stirring constantly, until the liquid is thickened.
Remove from heat and transfer to a flat pan to cool.
When cool enough to handle, place approximately 2 tbsp on the lower corner of one wrapper.
Roll up, folding in the sides to completely enclose the filling.
Seal the ends by brushing lightly with water.
Set each aside until all are rolled.
Heat at least 2 inches of oil to 380°F (193°C), and fry the spring rolls a few at a time until golden brown and crispy.
Drain on a paper towel and serve immediately with garnish and sauces.
Serve one roll per portion.

Variations

Substitute the turkey with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different flavor.
Add in additional vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, or mushrooms for extra crunch and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to julienne the vegetables thinly to ensure they cook evenly and fit nicely inside the spring roll wrappers.

- Be sure to seal the ends of the spring rolls tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during frying.

- Fry the spring rolls in batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their crispy texture.

- Serve the spring rolls immediately after frying for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the spring rolls with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables and turkey over high heat to ensure they cook quickly and retain their crisp texture.

- Fry the spring rolls in hot oil to achieve a crispy and golden brown exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use canola oil or peanut oil in place of vegetable oil for frying.

- Substitute rice paper wrappers for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the filling for the spring rolls in advance and store in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and fry.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the spring rolls on a platter with a garnish of fresh herbs and a side of dipping sauce for an attractive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the spring rolls with a side of steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

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

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spring rolls with turkey contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spring rolls with turkey contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spring rolls with turkey contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of spring rolls with turkey contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Spring rolls with turkey are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and sesame oil, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Spring rolls with turkey are a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Spring rolls with turkey are a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light meal or appetizer. With a crispy exterior and a savory filling, these spring rolls are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy the delicious flavors of this classic Asian dish!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spring Rolls with Turkey. It was many years ago, when I was a young girl living in a small village in Vietnam. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, had learned the recipe from a friend who had traveled to Thailand and brought it back with her.

I remember watching in awe as my grandmother carefully prepared the ingredients, rolling out the thin sheets of rice paper and filling them with a delicious mixture of ground turkey, vegetables, and spices. The smells that wafted through the kitchen were intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to try these exotic and tasty treats.

As I grew older, I became more and more interested in learning how to cook. I spent hours in the kitchen with my grandmother, watching her every move and asking her questions about the recipes she knew so well. She was always patient with me, teaching me the techniques and secrets that had been passed down through generations.

One day, when I was a teenager, my grandmother surprised me by asking me to help her make the Spring Rolls with Turkey. I was thrilled at the opportunity to finally try my hand at making this delicious dish. Together, we worked side by side, rolling and filling the spring rolls with care and precision.

As we sat down to eat our creation, I couldn't believe how amazing they tasted. The crispy, golden brown exterior gave way to a burst of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. I knew then that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

Over the years, I have made these Spring Rolls with Turkey many times, always thinking of my grandmother and the special bond we shared over our love of cooking. I have added my own twists and flavors to the recipe, making it my own while still honoring the tradition and heritage that it represents.

Now, as a grandmother myself, I take great joy in passing on this recipe to my own grandchildren. I watch as their eyes light up with wonder and excitement, just as mine did all those years ago. I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of our family for generations to come, a reminder of the love and connection that food can bring.

In the end, it is not just about the ingredients or the techniques, but about the memories and stories that are woven into every dish we create. And for me, the story of how I learned to make Spring Rolls with Turkey will always be a cherished chapter in my cookbook of life.