Zhejiang Style Crispy Five Spice Powder Spring Roll Recipe
Cuisine: Chinese
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
The Zhejiang Style Crispy Five Spice Powder Spring Roll is a delightful appetizer from East Asian cuisine, specifically inspired by the rich flavors of Zhejiang province. These spring rolls are filled with a savory mushroom and sweet corn mixture, which is delicately spiced with Chinese five-spice powder, giving them an aromatic and subtly spicy flavor. The homemade hoisin sauce enhances the filling with a hint of sweetness, while the crispy, golden spring roll wrappers add a satisfying crunch. These rolls are perfect for serving at parties or as a starter for any Chinese-inspired meal.
Ingredients
For the Spring Roll Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Button mushrooms, chopped | 1 cup |
| Sweet corn | 1/2 cup |
| Spring onion (bulb & greens) | 2 sprigs |
| Cloves (laung), chopped | 4 cloves |
| Ginger, chopped | 1 inch |
| Chinese five-spice powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Homemade hoisin sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | To taste |
For the Spring Roll Wrapper:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (maida) | 1/2 cup |
| Butter (salted) | 100 grams |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 12-15 spring rolls
Instructions
-
Prepare the Spring Roll Dough:
Start by kneading the dough for the spring roll wrappers. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Slowly add warm water and knead the mixture into a soft but not sticky dough. Cover it with a damp cloth and set aside for 10-15 minutes to rest. -
Prepare the Filling:
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Once the oil is hot, sauté the chopped ginger and garlic until fragrant. Add the button mushrooms and sweet corn, and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender, add the chopped spring onions, cloves, Chinese five-spice powder, and hoisin sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. -
Prepare the Spring Roll Wrapper:
While the filling cools, divide the rested dough into small balls, roughly the size of a walnut. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a very thin circle, taking care not to tear or create holes in the dough. The thinner, the better! The dough should be delicate and almost translucent. If necessary, dust the dough lightly with flour to prevent sticking. -
Assemble the Spring Rolls:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. To assemble, place a thin wrapper on a flat surface and spoon about a teaspoon of the mushroom and sweet corn filling near the edge of the wrapper. Carefully fold the left and right sides of the wrapper towards the center, ensuring the filling doesn’t spill out. Then, fold the bottom edge of the wrapper over the filling and begin rolling tightly towards the top, sealing the open end with a small dab of water. -
Bake the Spring Rolls:
Place the prepared spring rolls on the greased baking tray. Use a pastry brush to lightly brush each roll with some melted butter or oil to ensure a golden, crispy texture. Bake the spring rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy, turning halfway through for even cooking. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the spring rolls are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Serve the Zhejiang Style Crispy Five Spice Powder Spring Rolls as a party appetizer, accompanied by a delicious dipping sauce like soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a tangy vinegar-based sauce. These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, with their crispy exterior and flavorful filling.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, you can add a bit of finely chopped fresh chili or a dash of chili sauce to the filling.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter or oil in place of the salted butter for a vegan-friendly version.
- Alternative Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or even tofu for a unique twist on the traditional filling.
These Zhejiang Style Crispy Five Spice Powder Spring Rolls are a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and aromatic flavors wrapped in a crispy, golden shell. Whether you’re preparing them for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious snack, these spring rolls are sure to impress!
