Lumpia:
A Crispy, Savory Filipino
Favorite
4 Servings
Lumpia, a beloved Filipino snack or appetizer, is a culinary masterpiece wrapped in a thin, delicate wrapper. Whether filled with a savory mix of ground meat and vegetables or a sweet combination of fruits and cheese, lumpia is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed fresh or deep-fried to crispy perfection.
45min Prep
20min Cook
INGREDIENTS
Wrappers:
- Lumpia wrappers (available in Asian grocery stores)
Filling:
Meat Filling (Lumpiang Shanghai):
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup minced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped water chestnuts
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable Filling (Lumpiang Gulay):
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green beans
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup shredded bamboo shoots
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Dipping Sauce:
- Sweet chili sauce
- Vinegar with garlic and chili peppers
- Banana ketchup (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Prepare the Filling:
- For meat filling: In a bowl, combine all filling ingredients and mix well.
- For vegetable filling: Heat oil in a pan, sauté garlic and onions until softened. Add vegetables and cook until tender-crisp. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Let cool before assembling.
Assemble the Lumpia:
- Lay a lumpia wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place a spoonful of filling near one end of the wrapper. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly, sealing the edges with water or beaten egg.
Cook the Lumpia:
- Fresh: Serve immediately with dipping sauce.
- Deep-fried: Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Deep-fry lumpia until golden brown and crispy. Drain excess oil on paper towels.
Food Story:
Lumpia, believed to have originated in China, has become a beloved culinary tradition in the Philippines. It’s a dish that reflects the country’s multicultural history and the fusion of different culinary influences.
Lumpia is not just a delicious snack or appetizer; it’s a symbol of togetherness and celebration. It’s often prepared and enjoyed during family gatherings, special occasions, and festive events. The act of rolling lumpia together is a cherished bonding activity, and sharing the finished product brings joy and satisfaction to everyone at the table.
