Craving authentic Filipino Lumpiang Shanghai? Our air fryer lumpia recipe will give you that satisfying crunch you love, with less grease and fewer calories.

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Lumpiang shanghai, also known as lumpia, is a beloved Filipino appetizer that bears resemblance to spring rolls. These delectable treats boast a crispy exterior and a variety of filling options that cater to every palate. Whether you prefer homemade lumpia with fresh ingredients or opt for the convenience of frozen ones, there's no denying their irresistible appeal.
The beauty of this lumpia recipe lies in its versatility. From traditional ground pork fillings to innovative combinations like shrimp and vegetables, these savory delights can be customized to suit your taste. Wrapped in delicate lumpia egg roll wrappers or spring roll skins, they offer a satisfying crunch with each bite.
If you're searching for the perfect appetizer to satisfy your cravings, give this savory treat a try. With its mouthwatering flavors and easy preparation, it's no wonder this Filipino favorite has gained international recognition.
Reasons to Love
- Healthier alternative to deep-fried lumpia: By using an air fryer, you can enjoy the deliciousness of lumpia without guilt. Unlike traditional deep-frying methods, the air fryer requires little to no oil, resulting in a healthier version of these beloved Filipino spring rolls.
- Crispy texture without excess oil: One of the best things about cooking lumpia in an air fryer is that it still achieves a satisfyingly crispy texture. The hot circulating air inside the appliance ensures that your lumpia becomes golden brown and crunchy, all while minimizing the need for excessive oil.
- Quick and convenient cooking method: With an air fryer, you can whip up a batch of lumpia in no time. The appliance heats up quickly and cooks food faster than conventional ovens, making it a perfect option for those busy days when you're craving some homemade lumpia but don't have much time to spare.
- Retains the authentic taste of traditional lumpia: Despite using a different cooking method, preparing lumpia in an air fryer doesn't compromise its authentic taste. The filling remains flavorful and the exterior retains its signature crispness, ensuring that every bite brings back memories of enjoying traditional lumpiang shanghai.
Ingredients
To make our simple recipe, you only need a handful of ingredients.
Here are the items needed:
- lean ground pork
- finely grated fresh carrots
- garlic powder
- onion powder
- soy sauce
- ground black pepper
- lumpia wrappers
- water
- olive oil
Scroll down to the recipe card for quantities used.
Instructions
Ready to start making lumpia in the air fryer? Once you've gathered your ingredients, preheat the Air Fryer and set the cooking time to 25 minutes. Then, follow these step-by-step directions.
Place ground pork in a bowl and add garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and soy sauce.
Mix the seasonings into the ground meat with a spoon.
Add grated carrots.
Mix carrots in well. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.
Place one lumpia wrapper on a large plate. Lightly brush sides with water. Fill one side with one tablespoon of the meat mixture.
Fold both sides of the wrapper. Fold the top (near your side) then roll forming a thin, long cylindrical shape. Seal the edges with water. Repeat for remaining wrappers.
Gently transfer the rolls to the Air Fryer basket or tray. Lightly brush all sides with olive oil.
Insert into air fryer and start cooking. Flip the lumpia halfway through and lightly brush with oil, if needed.
Air fry until crisp and golden in color. Cool for 1 to 2 minutes.
Cut all Air Fryer Lumpiang Shanghai in half. Serve on a platter and paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Hint: If using an air fryer with two trays, the middle tray will cook faster. Once that one is golden brown, remove it then move the second tray to the middle spot and continue air frying until golden brown.
Variations
Whether you prefer the classic pork and vegetable filling or want to venture into vegetarian or sweet variations, there's no shortage of options.
- Classic style: The traditional and most popular lumpia filling combines ground pork and vegetables. The mixture can include carrots, cabbage, onions, garlic, and or bean sprouts. The flavors meld together to create a deliciously satisfying bite.
- Protein variations: If you want to switch things up, use several protein alternatives in your lumpia. Consider trying chicken, shrimp, or tofu as your primary protein source. These options offer different textures and flavors that can add an exciting twist to the classic recipe.
- Vegetarian or vegan fillings: For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, you can still enjoy the delectable taste of lumpia by using alternative fillings. Mushrooms make an excellent substitute for meat due to their meaty texture and umami flavor. Tofu is another great option that provides a good source of plant-based protein.
Lumpia doesn't always have to be savory; it can also be transformed into a delightful dessert. Try making turon with ripe bananas or jackfruit.
Tips
Top tip: To ensure that your lumpia cooks evenly and crisps up nicely, it's important to preheat the air fryer. This helps create a hot and consistent cooking environment.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket: It can be tempting to pile in as many lumpia as possible, but overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking. Leave enough space between each piece to allow for proper airflow and browning.
- Flip halfway through cooking for even browning: To achieve that golden brown color on all sides of your lumpia, flip them over halfway through the cooking process. This will help ensure even browning and crispiness.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture: Lumpia is at its best when served fresh out of the air fryer. The crispy exterior and flavorful filling are most enjoyable when consumed right away. So, make sure to serve your lumpia immediately after cooking.
Serving suggestions
When it comes to serving lumpia made in an air fryer, the options are endless. This crunchy and delicious snack can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, depending on your preference. For a simple yet satisfying meal, serve them with steamed white rice or Mexican rice and a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping. The combination of the crispy lumpiang shanghai and the tangy-spicy sauce is perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Pairing the rolls with delicious dipping sauces takes this already amazing appetizer to another level. While sweet chili sauce is always a classic choice, why not try something different? Peanut sauce is another popular option. Its creamy texture adds depth to each bite you take! If you prefer something tangy, consider a mixture of vinegar and soy sauce with minced garlic for dipping. This dipping sauce will give a tangy and savory kick to your lumpia.
Storage
Lumpiang Shanghai can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To store in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent air exposure and maintain their freshness.
To freeze, place the cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about an hour. Once they are partially frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag or container and seal it tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen lumpia in the air fryer until warm throughout.
Related Recipes
Want to make more tasty appetizers in your air fryer? Here are some other recipes you can try:
- Air fry poppers are jalapeños with a creamy stuffing.
- Homemade lemon pepper wings are crisp and tangy.
- Bacon smokies wrap juicy cocktail sausages in smoky bacon.
- Air fryer shrimp skewers bring the taste of grilling indoors.
- Popcorn chicken is always a hit with kids and picky eaters.
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Recipe
Air Fryer Lumpia (Lumpiang Shanghai)
Ingredients
- ½ pound lean ground pork
- 1 cup finely grated fresh carrots loosely packed
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce use a premium brand
- ground black pepper
- 9 pieces lumpia wrappers prepare some extra
- water for sealing the wrappers
- olive oil for spraying or brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer at 370°F (188°C). Set at 25 minutes. (See notes)
- In a bowl, season ground pork with garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and soy sauce. Add grated carrots. Mix well. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Carefully separate lumpia wrappers just before using them. Avoid letting wrappers dry out.
- Arrange Lumpiang Shanghai rolls individually.
- Place one lumpia wrapper on a large plate. Lightly brush sides with water. Fill one side with one tablespoon of meat mixture. Fold both sides of the wrapper. Fold the top (near your side) then roll forming a thin, long cylindrical shape. Seal the edges with water.
- Do this for the remaining wrappers and seasoned meat. Avoid from overcrowding. (See notes)
- Gently transfer filled lumpia wrappers onto Air Fryer tray. Lightly brush all sides with olive oil.
- Slowly insert tray into the middle cooking chamber, near the rotisserie catch. Place the second tray below the first.
- Turn each Lumpiang Shanghai halfway through and lightly brush with olive oil, if needed.
- No need to wait for the “turn food” reminder provided by the Air Fryer.
- See tips or notes when closing the door.
- Once the Lumpiang Shanghai are golden in color from the first tray, remove and cool for 1 to minutes.
- Transfer the second tray into the middle cooking chamber. Continue to Air Fry Lumpia Shanghai until crisp and golden in color. Cool for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Cut all Air Fryer Lumpiang Shanghai in half. Serve on a platter and paired with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alma
Paired these lumpia with a sweet chili dipping sauce, and it was the perfect combination! The tanginess of the sauce balanced out the savory filling so well.
Kevin
Good recipe. Thanks. New picture of you in opening?
Lookin' GOOD!
Lisa MarcAurele
Thanks Kevin. Enjoy the lumpia!
Shelby
Does anybody know what the serving size is for the 273kcal?
Lisa MarcAurele
One serving is 3 full rolls.