Crispy Reuben Egg Rolls Recipe: Best St. Patrick’s Appetizer

Get ready to elevate your appetizer game with a culinary creation that’s as fun to make as it is to devour: Reuben Egg Rolls! This innovative dish takes the beloved flavors of the classic deli sandwich – savory corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and melty Swiss cheese – and wraps them in a crispy, golden egg roll shell. It’s a match made in heaven, offering a delightful textural contrast and a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, looking for unique St. Patrick’s Day appetizers, or simply craving something extraordinary, these homemade egg rolls are guaranteed to be a showstopper.

The concept of combining the hearty, flavorful Reuben sandwich with the satisfying crunch of an egg roll wrapper is nothing short of brilliant. It transforms a traditional comfort food into an exciting, hand-held snack that’s perfect for dipping. Forget everything you thought you knew about appetizers; these Reuben Egg Rolls are a testament to the magic that happens when classic American deli meets Irish fusion food with an Asian-inspired twist. Prepare for an unforgettable flavor experience that will have everyone asking for the recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

There are countless reasons why these corned beef egg rolls will quickly become a staple in your kitchen and at your gatherings. They’re not just a clever twist on a classic; they’re a brilliantly engineered snack designed for maximum flavor and enjoyment.

• Texture Contrast: The magic truly begins with the interplay of textures. The exterior boasts an irresistible crispiness, whether you choose to deep-fry or air-fry them, providing the perfect counterpoint to the warm, tender corned beef, gooey melted Swiss cheese, and slightly chewy sauerkraut within. This combination creates a sensory delight that’s incredibly satisfying.
• Leftover Hero: Did you make a magnificent corned beef brisket for St. Patrick’s Day and now have an abundance of leftovers? This recipe is your ultimate solution! Transform that delicious leftover corned beef into something entirely new and exciting. It’s an ingenious way to prevent food waste while creating an entirely fresh culinary experience.
• Quick Preparation: Despite their gourmet appeal, these Reuben Egg Rolls are surprisingly quick to prepare. With just a few simple steps, you can have a batch of these savory treats ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous entertaining or a speedy weeknight indulgence.

Ingredients You Need

Crafting the perfect Reuben Egg Rolls begins with selecting quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble this flavor-packed appetizer:

• Corned Beef: The heart of our Reuben Egg Rolls. You can use deli-sliced corned beef, chopped finely, or even better, finely diced cooked corned beef brisket – especially if you’re utilizing those St. Patrick’s Day leftovers. Aim for small, even pieces to ensure easy rolling and a balanced bite.
• Swiss Cheese: For that signature gooey, nutty flavor. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded Swiss cheese melts significantly better and provides a creamier texture in the filling. Grab a block and shred it yourself for superior results.
• Sauerkraut: The crucial element that brings the tangy acidity and authentic Reuben flavor. It cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese beautifully. Remember to drain it properly (we’ll elaborate on this in the tips section!) to avoid a soggy filling and ensure crispy egg rolls.
• Egg Roll Wrappers: The golden vessel for all this deliciousness. These can typically be found in the refrigerated section of most major grocery stores, often near the tofu or fresh pasta. Keep them covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out and cracking.
• Dipping Sauce: No Reuben is complete without its iconic dressing! Have plenty of Thousand Island or Russian dressing on hand for serving. This creamy, tangy sauce perfectly complements the rich filling.

How to Make Reuben Egg Rolls

Let’s get down to business! Making these homemade egg rolls is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Preparing the Filling

The key to a uniformly delicious Reuben Egg Roll is a well-mixed filling. You want every bite to deliver the complete flavor profile.

1. In a medium bowl, combine your finely chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, and well-drained sauerkraut.
2. Gently toss the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. This ensures that each egg roll has a balanced ratio of meat, cheese, and kraut, guaranteeing a symphony of flavors and textures in every mouthful.

Rolling Technique

Mastering the art of rolling is essential to prevent leaks and achieve a beautifully sealed egg roll. Think of it as creating a tight little envelope.

1. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond).
2. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling just below the center of the wrapper. Don’t overstuff!
3. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, tucking it in tightly.
4. Fold in the left and right corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape.
5. Roll the wrapper tightly from the bottom upwards towards the top corner.
6. Dampen the top corner with a little water or an egg wash (a beaten egg) and press firmly to seal the roll completely. This “glue” is vital for preventing the filling from escaping during cooking. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Deep Frying vs. Air Frying

You have options for achieving that irresistible crunch! Both methods yield delicious Reuben Egg Rolls, but with slightly different results.

Deep Fry: For Golden Perfection

Deep frying provides the classic, uniformly crispy texture that many love. It’s quick and gives a beautiful golden-brown finish.

1. Heat about 2-3 inches of neutral oil (like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil) in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer is crucial for maintaining the correct temperature and preventing greasy or burnt rolls.
2. Carefully place 2-3 egg rolls into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy rolls.
3. Fry for 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are deep golden brown and crispy on all sides.
4. Remove the egg rolls with a slotted spoon or spider and place them on a wire rack set over paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve immediately.

Air Fryer Option: For a Lighter Version

If you prefer a lighter touch or want to avoid deep frying, the air fryer is an excellent alternative for crispy air fryer reuben egg rolls.

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly brush each rolled egg roll with a thin layer of oil (olive oil or a neutral cooking oil works well). This helps achieve that desired golden color and crisp texture.
3. Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Work in batches if necessary.
4. Air fry for 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
5. Serve hot with your preferred dipping sauce.

Tips for Success

Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful Reuben Egg Rolls is all about paying attention to a few crucial details:

• Squeeze the Kraut: This is arguably the most vital tip for achieving truly crispy egg rolls. Excess moisture from the sauerkraut will steam the inside of the wrapper instead of frying it, leading to a soggy result. Place the sauerkraut in a fine-mesh sieve and press out as much liquid as possible with the back of a spoon, or even squeeze it firmly in a clean kitchen towel.
• Don’t Overstuff: While it might be tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, overstuffing is a common culprit for explosions in the fryer. It puts too much pressure on the seams, causing them to burst. Stick to the recommended 2-3 tablespoons per wrapper for optimal results and an easy roll.
• Oil Temperature is Key: For deep frying, consistency in oil temperature is paramount. If the oil isn’t hot enough, the egg rolls will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before the filling is fully heated through. Use a reliable kitchen thermometer to maintain a steady 350°F (175°C).

“The secret to a truly outstanding Reuben Egg Roll lies not just in the iconic flavors, but in the irresistible crunch. A perfectly crisp shell is non-negotiable!”

Serving Suggestions

These savory sauerkraut appetizers are fantastic on their own, but they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments.

• Best Dipping Sauces: The classic choice is, of course, a generous side of Thousand Island or Russian dressing. The creamy tanginess perfectly complements the rich filling. For those who like a little kick, a spicy mustard or a homemade sriracha mayo can add an exciting twist.
• Pairing with Pickles or a Side Salad: To complete the deli experience, serve your Reuben Egg Rolls alongside some crisp dill pickle spears. A light, fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the egg rolls.

Storage and Reheating

While best enjoyed fresh, you can absolutely make these Reuben Egg Rolls ahead of time or save leftovers for later enjoyment.

• Storing in the Fridge: Once cooled, place any leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Uncooked, assembled egg rolls can be stored similarly for 1-2 days, though they are best fried fresh.
• Freezing for Later: For longer storage, flash freeze uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheating: To restore their delightful crunch, reheat cooked Reuben Egg Rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes, until crispy and heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.

FAQ

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can absolutely prepare Reuben Egg Rolls ahead of time! You can assemble them up to 1-2 days in advance and store them, covered, in the refrigerator. For longer storage, they freeze beautifully. Flash freeze the rolled, uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the frying or air frying time.

Can I bake them in the oven?

While deep frying and air frying yield the crispiest results, you can bake Reuben Egg Rolls in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush the egg rolls with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. The texture will be slightly less crispy than fried versions but still delicious.

What cuts of beef work best?

For these corned beef egg rolls, finely diced cooked corned beef brisket is ideal, especially for using up leftover corned beef recipes. Its tenderness and rich flavor are perfect. If you don’t have brisket, good quality deli-sliced corned beef, chopped finely, also works wonderfully. The key is to ensure the beef is tender and cut into small, manageable pieces for easy rolling and an even distribution within the filling.

So, there you have it – your complete guide to crafting the most irresistible Reuben Egg Rolls. Whether you’re whipping them up for St. Patrick’s Day appetizers or just a fun weekend snack, these will surely be a hit. Get rolling and enjoy this incredible fusion dish!

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Crispy Beef Reuben Egg Rolls

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 12 sheets egg roll wrappers Standard square wrappers
• 2 cups cooked corned beef Finely chopped (deli or brisket)
• 1.5 cups Swiss cheese Shredded
• 1 cup sauerkraut Rinsed and squeezed very dry
• 1 quart vegetable oil For frying (can use canola or peanut)
• 1 small bowl water For sealing wrappers

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped corned beef, shredded Swiss cheese, and thoroughly drained sauerkraut. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape). Place approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
• Dip your finger in the water and run it along the edges of the wrapper to act as an adhesive.
• Fold the bottom corner up over the filling. Fold the left and right corners in toward the center, creating an envelope shape. Roll the wrapper tightly away from you until sealed.
• Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling. Keep rolled egg rolls under a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.
• Heat the vegetable oil in a dutch oven or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Carefully place 3-4 egg rolls into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pot.
• Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until the wrappers are golden brown and crispy.
• Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
• Serve immediately with Thousand Island or Russian dressing for dipping.

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