Air frying is becoming a popular method of cooking due to its ability to create delicious and crispy meals in a healthier way. One food that can be easily prepared in an air fryer is refrigerated egg rolls. These tasty treats are a favorite appetizer or snack for many people. However, there is often confusion about how long to air fry refrigerated egg rolls to achieve the perfect crispy texture. In this quick and crispy guide, we will explore the ideal cooking time for refrigerated egg rolls in an air fryer.
How an Air Fryer Works
To understand how long it takes to air fry refrigerated egg rolls, it’s important to grasp the basic concept of an air fryer. Unlike traditional deep frying, which immerses food in oil, an air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook the food. The air is rapidly heated, and then a powerful fan circulates the hot air around the food to create a crispy exterior while maintaining a moist interior.
Why Air Frying is a Healthy Option
Air frying has gained popularity because it offers a healthier alternative to deep frying. With an air fryer, you can achieve the crispy texture and golden-brown color without submerging your food in oil. This significantly reduces the amount of oil used, resulting in a healthier final product. Additionally, air frying eliminates the need for excessive oil disposal, making it an eco-friendly method of cooking.
The Benefits of Air Frying Egg Rolls
Egg rolls are often deep-fried, which can make them greasy and heavy. Air frying allows you to enjoy the delicious flavors of egg rolls with a fraction of the oil. The hot circulating air creates a crispy shell while keeping the filling tender and flavorful. Air frying also reduces the cooking time compared to traditional deep frying, making it a quicker option for those with limited time.
The Cooking Time for Air Frying Refrigerated Egg Rolls
The cooking time for air frying refrigerated egg rolls may vary depending on the brand, size, and desired crispiness. However, as a general guideline, most refrigerated egg rolls require around 10-12 minutes of cooking time in an air fryer. It’s important to note that preheating the air fryer is not necessary for refrigerated egg rolls.
Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Refrigerated Egg Rolls
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you achieve perfectly crispy refrigerated egg rolls in an air fryer:
1. Preheat your air fryer, if necessary. Most air fryers do not require preheating for refrigerated egg rolls.
2. Place the desired number of refrigerated egg rolls in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. It’s important to leave enough space for the hot air to circulate around each roll.
3. Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior.
4. Set the timer to 10-12 minutes. Start with the lower end of the range and increase the cooking time if necessary.
5. Halfway through the cooking time, carefully flip the egg rolls using tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning on all sides.
6. Once the timer goes off, check if the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy. If they require more cooking time, add a few more minutes and continue cooking.
7. Once the egg rolls are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer basket. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving to avoid burning yourself.
Tips for Perfectly Crispy Air-Fried Egg Rolls
While the cooking time provided is a general guideline, there are a few additional tips to ensure your refrigerated egg rolls turn out perfectly crispy:
1. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Leaving enough space between the egg rolls allows hot air to circulate around them, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
2. Flip the egg rolls halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that all sides are evenly browned and crispy.
3. Experiment with cooking time according to your preference. If you prefer a softer texture, decrease the cooking time slightly. For a more golden-brown and crunchy exterior, extend the cooking time slightly.
4. Use a cooking spray if desired. Although not necessary, lightly spraying the egg rolls with cooking spray before air frying can help enhance their crispiness.
5. Serve the egg rolls immediately. Air-fried egg rolls are at their best when served fresh and hot. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a complete meal.
Conclusion
Air frying refrigerated egg rolls provides a quick and crispy alternative to traditional deep frying. By following the recommended cooking time and using an air fryer, you can achieve a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the interior tender and flavorful. Experiment with different cooking times and methods to find your perfect level of crispiness. With the convenience and health benefits of air frying, you can now enjoy your favorite egg rolls guilt-free.