Authentic Filipino Lumpiang Shanghai

Lumpiang Shanghai

Let's prepare Lumpiang Shanghai, another popular Filipino dish. These are Filipino spring rolls, filled with a mixture of ground pork and various vegetables, then deep-fried to crispy perfection. Lumpiang Shanghai is often served at parties and family gatherings, accompanied by a sweet and sour dipping sauce.

Ingredients:

• 500 grams ground pork
• 1 medium carrot, finely grated
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 50 spring roll wrappers
• Oil, for deep frying
• Dipping Sauce Ingredients:
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Filling:
• In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, grated carrot, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, black pepper, and beaten egg. 
• Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Assemble the Spring Rolls:
• Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. 
• Place about a tablespoon of the pork mixture near the bottom edge of the wrapper. 
• Shape the filling into a log.
• Fold the bottom edge over the filling, roll tightly, then fold in the sides. 
• Continue rolling to the top. 
• Use a dab of water or beaten egg to seal the edge of the wrapper.
• Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.
3. Fry the Spring Rolls:
• Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large pan to 350°F (175°C). 
• Fry the spring rolls in batches, without crowding them, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. 
• Remove and drain on paper towels.
4. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
• Combine vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and ketchup (if using) in a small saucepan. 
• Bring to a boil, then simmer until the sugar is dissolved and the sauce is slightly thickened.
5. Serve:
• Serve the Lumpiang Shanghai hot with the sweet and sour dipping sauce on the side.

Lumpiang Shanghai is typically enjoyed as an appetizer or a side dish and is a must-try for anyone interested in Filipino culinary delights. Enjoy your cooking!

Tip: If you prefer not to make your own dipping sauce, you can easily find a variety of options at your local grocery store. While I recommend this particular brand for its quality and taste, feel free to select any brand that suits your preferences and availability.

Tip: I highly recommend this brand of lumpia wrapper. Each sheet comes conveniently separated by a plastic liner, which not only saves you time by preventing the sheets from sticking together but also allows you to use the liners for wrapping individual rolls if you plan to cook them later. This is my favorite brand because it consistently produces the crunchiest lumpia.