We’ve always loved experimenting with fusion flavors, and our Collard Green Egg Rolls are a standout hit. This creative twist combines hearty Southern collard greens with the crispy crunch of traditional egg rolls making it a fun healthy option that’s perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
What we adore most is how easy it is to prepare while delivering bold tastes that surprise and satisfy. You’ll find it’s a versatile recipe we keep coming back to for its nutrient-packed greens and irresistible texture.
Ingredients
We bring the bold, Southern flavors of our Collard Green Egg Rolls to life with fresh, nutrient-packed ingredients that make this dish both crispy and wholesome. These selections ensure a vibrant filling and a perfectly golden wrapper.
For The Filling
To craft the hearty, nutritious heart of our Collard Green Egg Rolls, we start with these key components listed in the order they are typically prepared:
- 1 bunch collard greens (about 1 pound, washed, stemmed, and chopped for tender texture)
- 1 medium onion (diced for a sweet, aromatic base)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced to add pungent depth)
- 1 cup cooked ham or bacon (diced for smoky flavor and protein)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing to enhance the greens’ earthy notes)
- 1 teaspoon salt (to season and balance the greens’ natural bitterness)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for a spicy kick)
- 1 cup vegetable broth (to wilt the greens and add moisture)
For The Egg Rolls
- 12 egg roll wrappers (store-bought or homemade, kept under a damp cloth to prevent drying)
- 1 large egg (beaten to seal the wrappers securely)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying to achieve a crunchy exterior)
Tools and Equipment
To seamlessly transition from preparing our flavorful ingredients for Collard Green Egg Rolls, we need the right tools to ensure efficient and safe preparation. These items help us achieve the perfect crispy texture and vibrant flavors, making the cooking process straightforward and enjoyable.
We recommend gathering the following essential tools, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife is crucial for chopping collard greens, onion, and garlic precisely. This duo allows us to handle fresh produce quickly and safely, minimizing prep time.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to combine the cooked collard greens, onion, garlic, and other filling ingredients. Its size ensures we can mix everything evenly without spills, promoting a uniform filling for our egg rolls.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A non-stick skillet or frying pan is key for sautéing the collard greens mixture with olive oil. We opt for one that’s at least 12 inches in diameter to accommodate even cooking and prevent overcrowding.
- Pot for Blanching: A medium-sized pot is necessary for blanching the collard greens in vegetable broth. This step locks in nutrients and enhances the greens’ vibrant color and texture.
- Slotted Spoon or Tongs: These handy tools like a slotted spoon or tongs make it easy to remove blanched greens from the pot without excess liquid, ensuring our filling stays dry and rolls up perfectly.
- Baking Sheet or Tray: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to assemble the egg rolls. It’s ideal for laying out wrappers and filling them neatly before frying.
- Pastry Brush: A small pastry brush helps apply the beaten egg to seal the egg roll wrappers securely, preventing them from unraveling during frying.
- Deep Fryer or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: For achieving that irresistible crispy exterior, use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot with at least 3-4 inches of vegetable oil. This ensures even frying and golden-brown results.
- Thermometer (Optional but Recommended): If precision is our goal, a digital thermometer monitors oil temperature at around 350°F for optimal frying, reducing the risk of soggy or burnt egg rolls.
By having these tools ready, we can focus on crafting delicious, nutritious Collard Green Egg Rolls with confidence and ease.
Instructions
With our fresh ingredients and tools at the ready, we’re excited to guide you through crafting these irresistible Collard Green Egg Rolls. Our step-by-step process ensures you achieve a crispy exterior and flavorful filling every time.
Prep
Before we assemble and cook, let’s prepare the filling to enhance the nutritious collard greens and build bold, Southern-inspired flavors. Start by gathering your ingredients from our earlier list.
- Blanch the collard greens: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, then add 1 pound of fresh collard greens (stems removed and leaves torn into pieces). Blanch for 2-3 minutes until they turn vibrant green and slightly wilted, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step preserves their crisp-tender texture and rich, earthy taste.
- Chop the vegetables: On a clean cutting board, use your chef’s knife to finely chop 1 medium onion and 2 garlic cloves. The aromatic onions and garlic will add a savory depth that complements the greens’ slight bitterness.
- Sauté the filling: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring for 3-4 minutes until they soften and release a fragrant aroma. Next, incorporate the blanched collard greens, 1 cup of cooked ham or bacon (diced), 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 cup of vegetable broth. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is well combined and the flavors meld into a hearty, moist filling. The result is a vibrant, nutrient-packed blend that’s both comforting and healthy.
Assemble
Now that our filling is prepped, we’re ready to assemble the egg rolls for that signature crispy wrap.
- Set up your workstation: Lay out a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and have your egg roll wrappers (about 12-15 sheets) and a small bowl of beaten egg nearby for sealing.
- Fill the wrappers: Place one wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing toward you. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the collard green filling onto the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners, and roll tightly toward the top corner to form a neat cylinder.
- Seal and repeat: Brush the top corner with the beaten egg to seal the roll securely. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling until all are assembled. This method creates a satisfying contrast between the crunchy wrapper and the tender, flavorful interior, making these egg rolls a crowd-pleaser.
Cook
Finally, let’s cook the egg rolls to achieve that golden, crispy perfection using your deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot.
- Heat the oil: In a deep pot, pour in enough vegetable oil to reach 2-3 inches deep and heat to 350°F-375°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy if available—maintaining this temperature ensures even frying without sogginess.
- Fry in batches: Carefully add 3-4 egg rolls at a time to the hot oil, frying for 3-5 minutes per side until they turn a deep golden brown. Flip once midway for uniform crispiness, and listen for that satisfying sizzle as the exterior crisps up.
- Drain and cool: Remove the fried egg rolls with a slotted spoon or tongs and place them on a paper-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. The final product boasts a shatteringly crisp texture and a burst of savory flavors from the collard greens, making this a versatile dish for any occasion.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Collard Green Egg Rolls even more convenient for busy schedules, we recommend preparing components in advance. This approach allows us to maintain the dish’s crispy texture and bold flavors without sacrificing quality. Follow these steps to plan ahead effectively.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
We can get a head start by making the filling up to 2 days in advance. Here’s how:
- Blanch and chop the collard greens: Start by blanching the collard greens as outlined in our step-by-step instructions. After draining, chop them and let them cool completely before storing. This preserves their vibrant green color and tender texture.
- Sauté the mixture: In a skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, cooked ham or bacon, and other filling ingredients until fully combined. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature to prevent sogginess.
- Store properly: Transfer the cooled filling to an airtight container and refrigerate it. For optimal freshness and flavor retention, use it within 48 hours.
Assembling the Egg Rolls in Advance
Assemble the Collard Green Egg Rolls up to 1 day ahead to save time on the day of serving.
- Fill and roll the wrappers: Lay out the egg roll wrappers and add the prepared filling as per our assembly steps. Seal each one with beaten egg, then place the uncooked rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for longer storage: If we need more time, arrange the assembled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month, ensuring the crispy exterior remains intact when fried later.
- Thaw if needed: If frozen, thaw the rolls in the refrigerator overnight before frying.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to keeping our Collard Green Egg Rolls delicious.
- Refrigerate uncooked rolls: Keep assembled but uncooked rolls in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cover them with plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to avoid drying out.
- Fry from stored state: When ready to cook, heat the oil to 350°F as in our original instructions. Fry directly from the refrigerator or thaw if frozen, aiming for a golden-brown, shatteringly crisp finish.
- Reheat cooked rolls: If we’ve fried them ahead, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the texture soggy.
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Filling | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Keep below 40°F for safety. |
| Assembled rolls | Refrigerator | Up to 1 day | Cover to prevent drying. |
| Assembled rolls | Freezer | Up to 1 month | Thaw in fridge before frying. |
| Cooked rolls | Airtight container in refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Reheat in oven for best results. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing our Collard Green Egg Rolls recipe as a fresh take on comfort food. It’s a simple way to enjoy bold flavors and nutrition without the fuss.
We’re confident you’ll find it versatile for your table whether you’re hosting or prepping ahead. Give it a try and make it your own for memorable meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Collard Green Egg Rolls?
Collard Green Egg Rolls are a creative fusion dish combining Southern-style collard greens with crispy egg roll wrappers. This recipe offers a fun, healthy option for gatherings or dinners, blending bold flavors and nutrients from fresh greens. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and highlights the benefits of collard greens for a tasty, nutritious meal.
What ingredients do I need for Collard Green Egg Rolls?
You’ll need fresh collard greens, onion, garlic, cooked ham or bacon, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and vegetable broth for the filling. For the egg rolls, gather egg roll wrappers, a beaten egg for sealing, and vegetable oil for frying. These nutrient-packed ingredients create a flavorful, crispy dish that’s simple to assemble.
What tools are required to make Collard Green Egg Rolls?
Essential tools include a cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping, a large mixing bowl for ingredients, a skillet for sautéing, and a pot for blanching greens. You’ll also need a slotted spoon or tongs, a baking sheet for assembly, a pastry brush for sealing, and a deep fryer or heavy pot for frying. A thermometer helps monitor oil temperature for perfect results.
How do I prepare Collard Green Egg Rolls step by step?
Start by blanching collard greens to soften them. Chop and sauté onion, garlic, greens, and other filling ingredients in a skillet. Fill egg roll wrappers with the mixture, seal with beaten egg, and fry in heated vegetable oil until golden and crispy. This process yields a savory, nutrient-rich snack in under an hour.
Can I make Collard Green Egg Rolls ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance by blanching and sautéing ingredients, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. Assemble the egg rolls up to 1 day ahead and refrigerate, or freeze for longer storage. This makes it convenient for busy schedules while keeping flavors fresh.
How should I store and reheat Collard Green Egg Rolls?
Store cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or use an air fryer for crispiness. Avoid microwaving to maintain the texture and prevent sogginess.
Are Collard Green Egg Rolls a healthy option?
Yes, they’re a nutritious choice thanks to collard greens, which are rich in vitamins and fiber. Using fresh ingredients like onion, garlic, and olive oil adds health benefits without sacrificing flavor. This recipe balances veggies with a crispy exterior, making it a lighter alternative to traditional fried foods for balanced meals.