These crispy Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls are filled with tasty goodies like black beans, corn, and spicy peppers. They make for a fun and easy snack or appetizer!
Making these rolls is so simple—just fill, roll, and air fry! Plus, they’re healthier without all that deep frying. I love dipping mine in salsa or guacamole for an extra kick!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Black Beans: These add protein and fiber while giving a hearty texture. If you’re not a fan of black beans, you can substitute with pinto beans or even chickpeas for a different flavor.
Corn: Fresh corn is tasty but frozen or canned corn works just as well. If you’re looking for a twist, try using roasted corn for a smoky flavor!
Red Bell Pepper: For sweetness and color, red bell peppers are great. If they’re not available, yellow or orange peppers can also work, or you can skip it altogether if you prefer.
Jalapeño: This spice is optional, but if you want less heat, use a milder pepper like a green bell pepper or omit it entirely. Adding more cheese can balance the spice if you go for it!
Egg Roll Wrappers: Flour or rice paper wrappers can be substituted here. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free wrappers to enjoy the same deliciousness.
How do I roll egg rolls correctly?
Rolling egg rolls can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s how to do it seamlessly:
- Start by laying the egg roll wrapper with a corner pointed at you. This way, the filling rolls in nicely!
- Place 2-3 tablespoons of filling right in the center.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold the sides inwards to tuck the filling tightly.
- Roll it away from you, keeping it snug, and dampen the top corner with water to seal it nicely.
Practice makes perfect! If you find it hard to seal, a little extra water will do the trick. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Air Fryer Southwest Egg Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for spice)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Egg Rolls:
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Olive oil spray (for brushing)
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Avocado (for serving)
- Dipping sauce (southwest ranch or salsa, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes for cooking in the air fryer. All together, you can have these delicious egg rolls ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a quick and tasty meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the black beans, corn, diced red bell pepper, finely chopped red onion, jalapeño (if you like some spice), shredded cheese, cumin, chili powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This flavorful filling is the heart of your egg rolls!
2. Roll the Egg Rolls:
Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling mixture into the center of the wrapper. Next, fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners, and roll it tightly to form an egg roll. If the edges don’t stick, use a little water to seal them. Continue this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until you have a nice batch of egg rolls.
3. Air Fry the Egg Rolls:
Now, it’s time to cook! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray each egg roll with olive oil spray to give them that crispy texture. Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. If you have a lot, cook them in batches. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking, until they’re golden brown and crispy.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with lime wedges and your favorite dipping sauce, like southwest ranch or salsa. You can also add sliced avocado on the side for a delicious touch. Enjoy your homemade Southwest egg rolls!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute black beans with pinto beans or white beans if you prefer. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well before mixing with other ingredients for the best flavor and texture.
Can I Prepare the Egg Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls in advance! After wrapping them, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before air frying. Just add an extra minute or two to the cooking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
How to Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
Store any leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again!
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Roll Wrappers?
If you can’t find egg roll wrappers, you can use rice paper wraps for a lighter version. Just be sure to soak the rice paper in water until pliable before wrapping the filling. The cooking time may vary, so keep an eye on them in the air fryer!
