Vietnamese Egg Rolls – Step-by-Step Recipe

Vietnamese Egg Rolls – Step-by-Step Recipe

Vietnamese Egg Rolls, known in Vietnam as Chả Giò in the south and Nem Rán in the north, are crispy golden rolls filled with a flavorful mix of ground pork, vegetables, mushrooms, and glass noodles. Wrapped in thin rice paper and deep-fried until crunchy, they are a beloved dish served as appetizers, snacks, or party favorites. These egg rolls are famous for their satisfying crunch on the outside and juicy, savory filling inside.

This dish has its roots in traditional Vietnamese home cooking and festive gatherings. It is often enjoyed during special occasions such as Lunar New Year (Tết) and family celebrations, where the rolls are served alongside fresh herbs, lettuce, vermicelli noodles, and a sweet-sour dipping sauce called nước chấm. Over time, Vietnamese Egg Rolls have become popular worldwide for their balance of texture, aroma, and flavor.

In this article, you will learn step-by-step how to make authentic Vietnamese Egg Rolls at home from preparing the perfect pork and vegetable filling, to wrapping them neatly, and frying them until crisp and golden. You’ll also discover the secret to making the classic sweet fish sauce dipping sauce, along with pro tips to keep your rolls crunchy and delicious every time. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a party, this recipe will help you bring a taste of Vietnam right to your kitchen.

Crispy, golden, and packed with savory flavor – perfect for parties or family dinners.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 6 minutes per batch | Servings: ~20 egg rolls

Nutrition Facts (per egg roll)

  • Calories: ~150 kcal
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Total Fat: 7.5 g
    • Saturated Fat: 1.7 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 5.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
  • Carbohydrates: 14 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1 g
    • Sugars: 2 g
  • Sodium: ~220 mg (depends on fish sauce brand)
  • Vitamin A: ~25% DV
  • Vitamin C: ~8% DV
  • Iron: ~5% DV
  • Calcium: ~2% DV

Health Notes

  • High in protein from ground pork.
  • Good vitamin content from carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, and herbs.
  • Frying increases calorie content for a lighter option, try air-frying or baking.
  • Can be gluten-free if you use rice paper and gluten-free soy/fish sauce.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) ground pork
  • 1 tbsp fish sauce
  • 1 tbsp chicken bouillon powder
  • ½ tbsp ground black pepper
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 large carrot, shredded
  • 1 cup shredded taro
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 2 tbsp chopped shallots
  • 2 tbsp chopped garlic
  • 2 tbsp chopped onions
  • ½ cup rehydrated wood ear mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cooked mung bean noodles (glass noodles), chopped
  • Rice paper wrappers (or egg roll wrappers)
  • Neutral frying oil (canola, sunflower, or peanut)

Step by step instructions vietnamse egg rolls

Step 1 – Prepare the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, fish sauce, chicken bouillon, and black pepper.
  2. Crack in the eggs and mix well.
  3. Add shredded carrot, shredded taro, cabbage, shallots, garlic, onions, chopped wood ear mushrooms, and mung bean noodles.
  4. Using clean hands or gloves, mix thoroughly until the filling is evenly combined. This ensures even cooking and consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 2 – Wrap the Egg Rolls

  1. Dip one sheet of rice paper into warm water for about 5–10 seconds to soften.
  2. Place the softened wrapper on a clean board.
  3. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of the wrapper.
  4. Spread the filling evenly, then fold the bottom over it.
  5. Fold in the sides, and roll tightly into a cigar shape.
  6. Repeat until all filling is used.

Step 3 – Fry Until Crispy

  1. Heat oil in a deep pan to medium-high (about 170–180°C / 340–355°F).
  2. Carefully add the rolls in batches. Do not overcrowd.
  3. Fry for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp.
  4. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 4 – Make Sweet Fish Sauce Dipping Sauce

  1. In a bowl, mix 3 tbsp fish sauce, 4 tbsp sugar, and 1 cup warm water.
  2. Add minced garlic and sliced Thai chili to taste.
  3. Stir until sugar dissolves.

Step 5 – Serve & Enjoy

  • Arrange egg rolls on a plate with fresh lettuce, herbs, and vermicelli noodles.
  • Serve with sweet fish sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle directly over the rolls.

Pro Tips for Perfect Vietnamese Egg Rolls

  • Use rice paper for a lighter, crispier texture; use egg roll wrappers for a thicker, crunchier bite.
  • Keep fillings dry to prevent soggy rolls.
  • Fry in batches to maintain oil temperature and crispness.

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Essential tools for making vietnamese egg rolls

1. Large Mixing Bowl

For combining pork, vegetables, noodles, and seasonings evenly.

2. Sharp Knife & Cutting Board

To finely chop vegetables, mushrooms, and herbs. A mandoline slicer can also help for uniform cuts.

3. Vegetable Grater/Shredder

For shredding carrots, taro, and cabbage quickly and evenly.

4. Kitchen Gloves

Keeps hands clean and helps mix filling thoroughly without sticking.

5. Rice Paper Tray or Large Shallow Dish

For soaking rice paper wrappers in warm water before rolling.

6. Clean Kitchen Towel or Plate

To place softened rice papers for wrapping without tearing.

7. Frying Pan or Deep Fryer

A heavy-bottomed frying pan, wok, or deep fryer ensures even heat for crispy egg rolls.

8. Cooking Thermometer (optional but helpful)

To check oil temperature (170–180°C / 340–355°F) for perfect frying.

9. Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer

For safely removing egg rolls from hot oil.

10. Paper Towels or Wire Rack

To drain excess oil and keep rolls crispy.

11. Kitchen Scissors (optional but traditional in Vietnam)

For cutting egg rolls before serving with noodles and herbs.

Conclusion

Vietnamese Egg Rolls are more than just a crispy appetizer they are a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and tradition. With their golden, crunchy exterior and savory, juicy filling, they bring together the essence of Vietnamese home cooking in every bite.

By following this recipe, you can recreate authentic Chả Giò at home, from preparing the flavorful pork and vegetable filling to wrapping and frying them to perfection.

Served with fresh herbs, lettuce, vermicelli noodles, and the classic sweet fish sauce, these egg rolls are ideal for family meals, celebrations, or as a party snack that will impress your guests.

Once you taste the combination of crispy skin, tender filling, and zesty dipping sauce, you’ll understand why Vietnamese Egg Rolls are loved around the world. So grab your ingredients, heat up your oil, and bring a little taste of Vietnam to your table.

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