Beef Lumpia are tasty meat-filled spring rolls that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They make for a perfect snack or appetizer that everyone loves!
Let’s be real—there’s something so fun about dipping these crunchy rolls into sauce. It’s hard to eat just one! I like to serve them fresh from the pan for an extra treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef gives delicious flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try lean ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Onions: I prefer sweet onions for a milder flavor, but yellow or red onions work well too. If you’re allergic, skip them or use leeks for a similar taste.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and crunch. You can also use zucchini or bell peppers if you want to mix things up, or even shredded cabbage for extra texture!
Water Chestnuts/Jicama: These add a nice crunch to the filling. If you can’t find them, try using diced celery or even chopped nuts like cashews for some extra crunch.
Lumpia Wrappers: Spring roll wrappers can be used as a substitute. If you’re gluten-free, look for rice paper wrappers instead, which work surprisingly well.
How Do I Roll Lumpia Without Breaking the Wrappers?
Rolling lumpia can be tricky but here’s how to do it smoothly. Make sure to have everything prepped and within reach! Start with a fresh wrapper; old or dry ones tend to crack easily.
- Lay the wrapper in a diamond shape, ensuring it’s on a flat surface.
- Add the filling close to the bottom corner, but not too much—about 2 tablespoons.
- Fold the bottom corner over the filling and tuck it slightly under. This holds the filling in place.
- Fold in the side corners tightly to seal it before rolling it all the way up.
- Use the egg wash on the final edge to seal it well.
With a little practice, you’ll be a pro at rolling lumpia! Just don’t overstuff them, or they might break during frying.
How to Make Beef Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup finely chopped onions
- 1 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped green beans (optional)
- ½ cup finely chopped water chestnuts or jicama (optional for crunch)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
For Assembling:
- 1 pack lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers), about 25-30 pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing wrappers)
- Cooking oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, so you’ll need around 35 minutes total to make your delicious Beef Lumpia. This includes prepping your ingredients, cooking the filling, and frying the lumpia until they’re golden brown and crispy. Enjoy the quick and tasty process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Garlic:
Start by heating a small amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it until it’s fragrant—about 1 minute. Be careful not to let it burn!
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off for a leaner filling.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Now, toss in your chopped onions, carrots, green beans, and water chestnuts (if using). Cook this mixture for about 3-5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still have a little crunch to them. You want them to stay vibrant and flavorful!
4. Season the Filling:
Season the cooked mixture with soy sauce, salt, pepper, and sugar. Mix everything well and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Once done, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Lumpia:
Take a lumpia wrapper and lay it on a flat surface with one corner facing you (it should look like a diamond). Place about 2 tablespoons of your filling near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling, then fold in both the left and right corners tightly. Keep rolling it up snugly till you’re an inch from the top. Here’s the trick: brush that top edge with beaten egg to seal everything together!
6. Fry the Lumpia:
Heat cooking oil in a deep pan or wok to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the lumpia in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Just remember not to overcrowd the pan, so they cook evenly.
7. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the lumpia from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This helps them stay crispy! Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce or any dipping sauce you love, along with some fresh veggies or salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy your crispy and savory Beef Lumpia!
Can I Use Other Meats Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground pork, chicken, or turkey are great alternatives. You can also use tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option—just make sure to season it well for flavor!
How Should I Store Leftover Lumpia?
Store any leftover lumpia in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain crispiness.
Can I Freeze Uncooked Lumpia?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked lumpia! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze them individually before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for Beef Lumpia?
Sweet chili sauce is a classic pairing! You can also serve them with soy sauce mixed with vinegar, or even a spicy mayo or peanut sauce for a twist.