Lumpia Shanghai – The Filipino Crispy Rolls Everyone Loves!
If you’ve ever craved a snack that’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor — Lumpia Shanghai is exactly that! This Filipino favorite is perfect for any occasion — from family gatherings to street food cravings. In this detailed recipe, you’ll learn not just how to make it, but also how to make it extra crunchy and delicious like the ones served in Filipino celebrations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 package spring roll wrappers (thin kind for Lumpia, not thick egg roll ones)
- ½ lb ground pork (you can also use chicken or a mix)
- ½ cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but gives a deep umami taste)
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 egg (to make the filling stick together better)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for crispier texture)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, green onions, minced garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a spatula until the mixture becomes sticky — that means the flavors are blended.
Pro Tip: Let the filling rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes before wrapping. This helps the flavors soak in and makes wrapping easier.
Step 2: Assemble the Lumpia
Lay a spring roll wrapper on a clean surface, one corner facing you (like a diamond shape). Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the filling near the bottom corner.
Fold the bottom corner over the filling tightly, then fold both side corners inward. Roll it up like a cigar until you reach the top corner. Seal with a dab of water or beaten egg.
Don’t roll too loosely — air gaps can cause them to burst while frying!
Step 3: Repeat Until Done
Continue rolling until all filling is used. If you’re making a big batch, cover the wrapped lumpia with a damp towel to prevent drying.
You can even freeze uncooked lumpia at this stage — perfect for future snacks!
Step 4: Fry the Lumpia
Heat about 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. The oil should reach around 350°F (175°C) — you can test it by dropping a small piece of wrapper; if it sizzles right away, it’s ready.
Carefully add a few lumpia pieces at a time. Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side. Avoid overcrowding — that keeps them crunchy
Keep turning the rolls gently so they brown evenly.
Step 5: Drain & Serve
Once golden and crisp, remove the lumpia and drain on paper towels.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like:
- Sweet chili sauce (classic Filipino choice)
- Banana ketchup (a Filipino twist!)
- Soy sauce with vinegar and garlic for a tangy dip
Alternative Cooking Option – Baked Lumpia
If you prefer a healthier version, brush each roll lightly with oil and arrange them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
They’ll come out crispy but lighter, perfect for a guilt-free snack!
Tips for Perfect Lumpia Shanghai
- Keep wrappers moist – Cover them with a damp towel while working.
- Avoid soggy filling – Drain veggies if they release too much water.
- Use thin wrappers – They make your lumpia extra crunchy.
- Freeze before frying – Frozen lumpia fries beautifully and stays crisp longer.
- Don’t use high heat – Medium heat ensures the meat cooks through before the wrapper burns.
Serving Ideas
Lumpia Shanghai goes perfectly with:
- Steamed jasmine rice and sweet chili sauce.
- A cold drink like calamansi juice or iced tea.
- As part of a Filipino fiesta platter with pancit, adobo, and rice.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crunchy texture that stays crisp even after cooling.
- Easy ingredients found in any supermarket.
- Freezer-friendly and great for parties or quick snacks.
- Adaptable — you can use chicken, beef, or even shrimp!
Final Thoughts
Making Lumpia Shanghai at home brings a little taste of the Philippines right into your kitchen. Each bite is crispy, savory, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you fry them fresh or store them for later, they’ll always be a crowd favorite!