Korean Egg Rolls (with Spicy Cucumber Salad)

If you're craving something savory, crispy on the outside, and oh-so-tasty on the inside, then these Korean Egg Rolls with Spicy Cucumber Salad are your new best friend. Seriously, I’m all about quick meals that pack a punch, and this one does just that. It’s super easy to whip up, even on a busy day, and the combination of eggs, veggies, and a little ham will have you coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s low-carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free, so everyone’s happy!

A little backstory on this recipe—these Korean Egg Rolls actually came about one afternoon when I was rummaging through my fridge, trying to figure out what to make for a quick snack. I had some eggs, a few leftover veggies, and some ham that was hanging around from last week’s sandwich binge. I threw it all together, added a few simple seasonings, and—bam!—I had a dish that tasted way better than I expected. The crispy, savory egg rolls were such a hit with the family that I had to share them with you all. So, if you’re looking for a quick fix that’s both comforting and a little bit fancy, this one’s for you. Hope it brings a bit of that same “wow” moment to your kitchen!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick and Easy: Ready in just 17 minutes! Perfect for those days when you’re starving but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

✔ Crispy & Savory: The outside gets that perfect crispy texture while the inside stays tender and flavorful—trust me, it’s a match made in egg roll heaven.

✔ Customizable: Got veggies or protein in the fridge? Toss ‘em in! This recipe is super flexible, so feel free to make it your own.

✔ Diabetes-Friendly: Low carb, gluten-free, and dairy-free—this one checks all the boxes for a healthier, lighter meal.

✔ Pairs Perfectly with Spicy Cucumber Salad: The freshness and zing from the salad balance out the rich, savory rolls. It’s a combo you’ll want to keep coming back to!

✔ Impress Your Friends: Looks fancy, tastes amazing, but is so easy to make. You’ll be the hero of any meal or snack time.

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What You'll Need To Make

Key Ingredients That Make These Egg Rolls Awesome:

• Eggs 🥚: The star of the show! Eggs give these rolls that fluffy, tender texture that everyone loves. Plus, they’re packed with protein, making them a filling option for any time of the day.
• Green Onions 🧅: These little guys add a fresh, zesty kick to the egg rolls. They bring that pop of flavor that balances out the richness of the eggs and ham.
• Carrots 🥕: Shredded carrots are the perfect way to sneak in some veggies while adding a little sweetness and crunch. They brighten up the rolls and make them even more satisfying.
• Ham 🍖: A little chopped ham adds savory goodness and just the right amount of meatiness. It’s a great way to give your egg rolls some extra flavor without being too heavy.
• Olive Oil 🫒: A light coating of olive oil helps crisp up the egg rolls and adds a nice richness without being greasy. It's all about that perfect golden-brown finish!

Each of these ingredients plays a role in making the egg rolls both delicious and satisfying—plus, they’re super easy to work with, so you can’t go wrong!

NOTE: For measurements and rest of the ingredients check the recipe card below.

What You'll Need To Do

Time required: 17 mins

Here's how you whip up those Korean Egg Rolls:

1| Beat the eggs: Grab a bowl and beat those eggs with a fork like you're ready to take on the world! Add in 2 tbsp of water, a pinch of salt (1/4 tsp), and a little sugar (also 1/4 tsp) to balance things out. Stir in the green onions, shredded carrots, and ham — let’s get colorful and tasty!

2| Get the pan ready: Heat up a 10-inch frying pan on medium-low heat. Give it a light coat of olive oil so things don’t stick.

3| Pour and swirl: Now, pour about 4 oz. (120ml) of your egg mix into the pan. Swirl it around like you're spreading butter on toast, making sure it’s even. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the edges are firm and the middle is just starting to set.

4| Lower the heat: Turn the heat down to low, and let the edges cook fully until the center is no longer runny. Almost there!

5| Start rolling: Take a spatula and carefully roll one side of the egg toward the center. Don’t roll it all the way, leave a little space for the next layer of eggs.

6| Oil and pour: Push the roll to one side of the pan and give the other side a light oil spray. Now, turn the heat back on low, pour in another 4 oz. (120ml) of egg mixture right where your roll ended. Let the uncooked egg blend with the cooked part, then cook until it sets.

7| Repeat the rolling: Keep doing this, adding egg mixture and rolling until it’s all used up. You'll have a nice little egg log at this point.

8| Golden brown finish: Turn the heat up to medium, and cook that roll on all sides until it’s golden brown and firm. Don't overcook, or it might get tough — we want tender goodness here!

9| Cool and slice: Transfer the roll to a cutting board, let it cool for 2 minutes, then slice into ¾-inch (2cm) pieces.

10| Serve it up: Grab that Spicy Cucumber Salad (you’ve got the recipe, right?), and serve the rolls warm or at room temperature.

Boom, you're done! Ready to chow down on these delicious little egg rolls!

Glycemic Index: 20 (low) Glycemic Load: 2 (low)

Recipe Swaps & Creative Tweaks

Here are some fun recipe swaps and tweaks you can try to make the Korean Egg Rolls your own:

Recipe Swaps:

1| Swap the Ham for Chicken or Tofu 🍗🍱: If you're not a fan of ham, try using cooked chicken or crispy tofu for a different protein option. Both will give you a delicious, satisfying bite.

2| Substitute Carrots for Zucchini 🥒: If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, swap shredded carrots for shredded zucchini. It’ll still add a fresh crunch without the extra sweetness.

3| Use Coconut Aminos instead of Soy Sauce 🌴: If you're looking to cut back on sodium or want a gluten-free alternative, coconut aminos works perfectly in place of soy sauce. It adds a slightly sweeter, milder flavor.

4| Try Avocado for Creaminess 🥑: For a rich, creamy bite, slice up some avocado and add it to the filling or serve it as a topping. It’s a fun twist and gives the rolls a smooth texture.

5| Switch the Salad for Kimchi 🌶️: If you want to take it up a notch with a more traditional Korean twist, swap out the Spicy Cucumber Salad for kimchi. It’ll add a tangy, spicy zing that pairs perfectly with the egg rolls.

Recipe Tweaks:

1| Add Some Spice 🌶️: For those who like a little kick, throw in some chopped jalapeños or chili flakes into the egg mixture for some extra heat.

2| Experiment with Herbs 🌿: Fresh cilantro or basil can make a fun herb addition. It’ll give your egg rolls a fresh burst of flavor that’s unexpected and delicious.

3| Make it Low-Carb with Lettuce Wraps 🥬: Skip the egg roll wrappers entirely and use large lettuce leaves to wrap the filling. It’s a great low-carb alternative for a lighter, crunchy bite.

4| Add a Crunchy Topping 🍤: Want to add a bit more texture? Toss some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds on top of the egg rolls after you slice them for an added crunch.

5| Gluten-Free Flour Coating 🌾: If you prefer a crispy exterior, lightly dust the rolls with some gluten-free flour before cooking to create an extra-crispy layer.

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Helpful Tips for Success

Here are some useful tips to make sure your Korean Egg Rolls turn out perfect:

1| Don’t Overcrowd the Pan 🍳: When cooking each egg layer, make sure to pour just enough of the egg mixture to cover the pan evenly. Overcrowding the pan can make it harder to roll the egg properly, so keep it simple and let each layer set before adding the next.

2| Use a Non-Stick Pan 🍳: A non-stick frying pan works wonders for this recipe. It makes rolling and flipping the egg rolls much easier and prevents the eggs from sticking.

3| Cook on Low Heat 🔥: When cooking the egg layers, keep the heat on low. This ensures the eggs cook through without burning the edges, giving you a tender and golden brown roll.

4| Let the Rolls Rest Before Slicing ⏳: After you finish cooking and rolling, let the egg roll rest for about 2 minutes before slicing. This helps the rolls firm up a bit and makes slicing much easier.

5| Use Fresh Ingredients 🥕: Fresh green onions, carrots, and other veggies really bring out the flavors. If possible, opt for fresh over pre-packaged to get the best taste and texture.

6| Keep the Rolls Small for Easy Eating 🍴: When rolling, don’t make the rolls too thick—about ¾-inch (2 cm) wide is just right for bite-sized, easy-to-eat portions. It’s perfect for serving at a gathering or as a snack.

7| For Extra Crispiness 🍽️: If you want that extra crispy exterior, try lightly frying the rolls on all sides after they’re cooked through, just for a minute or two on medium heat. This will give you a crunchy texture that everyone will love.

8| Perfect Pairing 🥗: Serve with your Spicy Cucumber Salad chilled! The coolness of the salad complements the warm, savory rolls, creating a balanced and refreshing meal.

These tips will help you make the most out of your Korean Egg Rolls, ensuring they're tasty, easy, and fun to make every time!

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Budget-Friendly Tips

Here are some budget-friendly tips to make your Korean Egg Rolls even more affordable without compromising on flavor:

1| Buy in Bulk 🛒: Purchasing ingredients like eggs, carrots, and olive oil in larger quantities can save you money in the long run. Plus, you'll have them on hand for future recipes!

2| Use Leftover Veggies 🥕: If you have leftover vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or onions, toss them into the egg roll filling. It’s a great way to use up what’s already in your fridge, and you don’t have to buy extra ingredients.

3| Swap Ham for a Cheaper Protein 🍗: Instead of ham, try using a more affordable protein like leftover chicken or even canned tuna. Both options will give you a savory, protein-packed filling at a fraction of the cost.

4| Use Store-Brand Ingredients 🏷️: Opt for store-brand or generic versions of your ingredients, like soy sauce or olive oil. They often work just as well as name brands but cost much less.

5| Make the Salad at Home 🥒: Instead of buying pre-made salad kits, make the Spicy Cucumber Salad from scratch. Cucumbers and simple seasonings are very inexpensive, and it’s easy to prepare a big batch.

6| Cut Back on Olive Oil 🫒: You only need a light coating of olive oil for cooking. Using just enough to prevent sticking and get that crispy texture will help you stretch the oil for multiple uses.

7| Shop Local or Farmer’s Markets 🌱: For fresh veggies like green onions and carrots, check out your local farmers' market or produce section for better deals on fresh, in-season produce.

8| Skip Fancy Add-ons 🥑: While avocado or special garnishes are tasty, they can also add up. If you want to keep the costs low, focus on the core ingredients that make the dish so delicious.

These simple tweaks will help keep your budget in check while still delivering a flavorful and satisfying meal!

Diet-Friendly Variations

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to make Keto, Low Carb, and Paleo versions of these Korean Egg Rolls! Here's how you can tweak the recipe to fit each of those diets:

Keto Version 🥓

• Eggs: The recipe is already keto-friendly, as eggs are a staple in the keto diet.
• Carrots: Carrots are a bit higher in carbs, so for a keto-friendly version, you can swap them with zucchini or spinach, which are lower in carbs.
• Ham: Make sure to use a nitrate-free ham or switch to bacon for an even richer, keto-friendly flavor.
• Spicy Cucumber Salad: You can keep the cucumber salad as is! Just make sure you’re using a sugar-free dressing, as sugar is a no-no on keto.
• Olive Oil: Perfect for keto! Just use the same amount as in the recipe to keep things rich and flavorful.

Low Carb Version 🥗

• Carrots: Carrots are a bit higher in carbs, so you can swap them for shredded zucchini or cucumber for a lighter, lower-carb alternative.
• Ham: Stick with lean, nitrate-free ham, or use chicken or turkey as an alternative protein source.
• Spicy Cucumber Salad: No changes needed here! The cucumber salad is already low-carb and fresh.
• Eggs & Olive Oil: Both are perfect for low-carb diets, so you’re good to go.

Paleo Version 🥩

• Eggs: Eggs are paleo-friendly, so no changes needed here.
• Carrots: Carrots are fine on the paleo diet, but you can swap them for more non-starchy veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for variety.
• Ham: To make it fully paleo, use nitrate-free, preservative-free ham, or replace it with grilled chicken, turkey, or even a wild-caught fish like salmon for a more paleo-friendly protein.
• Spicy Cucumber Salad: Ensure your salad dressing is paleo-friendly by using olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey or maple syrup (but not too much).
• Olive Oil: Totally fine for paleo! It's a great, healthy fat to use for cooking.

Common Adjustments:

• No Wraps: Since you’re using eggs as the base, there's no need for any traditional egg roll wrappers, so you're already on the right track for all these versions!
• Adjust Vegetables: Swapping out high-carb veggies like carrots for lower-carb ones (zucchini, bell peppers, etc.) is key to keeping these versions compliant with each diet.

These small swaps will make sure your Korean Egg Rolls fit perfectly into your Keto, Low Carb, or Paleo lifestyle while keeping them delicious!

Serving Ideas

Here are some fun and tasty serving ideas to elevate your Korean Egg Rolls and make them even more enjoyable:

1. Serve with Spicy Cucumber Salad 🥒

The fresh, crunchy Spicy Cucumber Salad is a perfect match! Its tangy flavor balances the richness of the egg rolls, making for a refreshing combo. You can even add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or fresh cilantro to both for extra flavor and a pop of color.

2. Top with Kimchi 🌶️

For a bold and traditional twist, serve your egg rolls with a side of kimchi. The spicy, fermented cabbage adds a kick that complements the savory egg rolls perfectly. Plus, it’s a great way to add some probiotics to your meal!

3. Pair with a Dipping Sauce 🍯

Why not add a dipping sauce on the side? You can go for a simple soy sauce or make a homemade dipping sauce with sesame oil, soy sauce, a dash of rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar (or substitute with stevia for a low-carb version). It’ll add an extra layer of flavor that makes each bite even better.

4. Make it a Light Meal with a Side Salad 🥗

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, serve the egg rolls with a side salad of mixed greens, avocado slices, and a lemon vinaigrette. The creamy avocado adds richness, and the lemon vinaigrette will keep things bright and tangy.

5. Create a Fun Appetizer Spread 🍽️

If you're hosting a gathering or need an appetizer spread, serve the egg rolls with a variety of finger foods like fresh veggies, sliced fruits, and a couple of small bowls of dipping sauces. It’s an easy way to offer variety and let your guests munch on different flavors.

6. Pair with a Glass of Iced Tea 🍹

A cold, refreshing glass of iced green tea or iced lemon tea pairs wonderfully with these egg rolls. The subtle bitterness of green tea or the zing of lemon will balance the richness of the rolls and keep things refreshing

7. Add a Protein Boost 🍗

Make the meal more filling by adding grilled chicken or shrimp on the side. Both proteins would add a great extra boost of flavor and make the meal even more satisfying.

8. Serve as a Snack or Party Appetizer 🎉

These egg rolls work wonderfully as a finger food for parties or gatherings. Arrange them on a platter with a dipping sauce and let everyone grab and go. They’re fun to eat and perfect for social snacking!

9. Try a Side of Pickled Veggies 🥒

Pickled vegetables like radishes or daikon can be a fantastic side dish. Their tangy flavor adds an extra punch and really complements the savory richness of the egg rolls.

10. Wrap Them in Lettuce for a Low-Carb Option 🥬

For a low-carb or paleo-friendly meal, serve the egg rolls wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of eating them as-is. This gives you the same great flavors but in a lighter, healthier format.

With these serving ideas, you’ll be able to take your Korean Egg Rolls to the next level, whether you're enjoying them as a snack or turning them into a full meal!

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Sure! Here are some great beverage pairings, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, to complement your Korean Egg Rolls:

Drink Pairings

Non-Alcoholic Pairings:

1. Iced Green Tea 🍵
   A refreshing, slightly bitter iced green tea works wonderfully to balance the richness of the egg rolls. It’s light, crisp, and incredibly refreshing.
2. Lemonade 🍋
   Fresh, tangy lemonade is a fantastic match! The sweetness and tartness of lemonade cut through the savory flavors, making it a fun and balanced pairing.
3. Cucumber Mint Water 💧
   If you're looking for something super refreshing, cucumber mint water is the way to go. It's hydrating, fresh, and complements the flavors of the egg rolls and cucumber salad without overpowering them.
4. Iced Hibiscus Tea 🌺
   For a slightly fruity and floral note, try iced hibiscus tea. It has a tangy, slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory and crispy egg rolls.
5. Sparkling Water with Lime 🍈
   If you want something light and fizzy, sparkling water with a squeeze of lime adds a nice, refreshing citrusy zing that goes perfectly with the egg rolls.
6. Apple Cider (Chilled) 🍏
   A chilled glass of apple cider, especially the non-alcoholic version, adds a subtle sweetness and depth that contrasts nicely with the egg rolls’ savory flavor.

Alcoholic Pairings:

1. Sake (Chilled or Warm) 🍶
   A classic pairing for Japanese-inspired dishes like these egg rolls is sake. The smooth, slightly sweet profile of sake, whether chilled or warm, enhances the savory richness of the rolls and balances the flavors beautifully.
2. Crisp White Wine 🍷
   A light, crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio is an excellent choice. The acidity and citrus notes in the wine will cleanse your palate and complement the egg rolls’ texture and flavors.
3. Japanese Beer (Asahi or Sapporo) 🍺
   A cold Japanese lager like Asahi or Sapporo is a great match. Its light, crisp flavor pairs well with the crispy texture of the egg rolls, and it won’t overpower the dish.
4. Moscato 🍇
   If you prefer something a little sweeter, try Moscato! Its sweet, fruity notes contrast nicely with the savory egg rolls, especially when paired with the spicy cucumber salad.
5. Ginger Ale or Ginger Beer (Alcoholic) 🍻
   The spicy, zesty flavor of ginger ale or ginger beer pairs really well with the egg rolls, especially if you enjoy a little extra spice. The fizz and slight heat from the ginger add a unique kick to the meal.
6. Soju (Korean Spirit) 🥃
   For a true Korean experience, pair your egg rolls with a shot of soju. It’s a clean, neutral spirit that complements the egg rolls’ flavors without overwhelming them, perfect for those who enjoy something strong and smooth.

With these beverage pairings, whether you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic or an adult drink, you’ve got plenty of refreshing options to enjoy alongside your Korean Egg Rolls!

Storage & Reheating Tips

Here are some handy storage and reheating tips to help keep your Korean Egg Rolls fresh and tasty:

Storage Tips:

1. Cool Before Storing 🧊
   Let your egg rolls cool to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation and keeps them from getting soggy.
2. Use an Airtight Container 🥡
   Store your egg rolls in an airtight container to keep them fresh. This helps prevent moisture from getting in and ensures they stay crisp for a longer time.
3. Separate Layers with Parchment Paper 📄
   If you have a lot of egg rolls, place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid them sticking together.
4. Refrigeration ❄️
   Keep your leftover egg rolls in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. This will help preserve their flavor and texture.
5. Freeze for Later 🥶
   If you want to store them longer, freeze the egg rolls! Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they won't stick together. They’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Tips:

1. Reheat in the Oven for Crispy Texture 🔥
   To bring back that crispy texture, reheat the egg rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes. This helps crisp up the outside while warming the inside. If you’re reheating from frozen, add an extra 5-7 minutes.
2. Use a Skillet 🍳
   You can also reheat the egg rolls in a skillet over medium heat. Heat them for a couple of minutes on each side until the outside crisps up again. This method is great if you’re looking for a quick reheating option.
3. Microwave for Quick Reheating ⚡
   If you’re in a rush, pop the egg rolls in the microwave for 30-60 seconds (depending on the size of the roll). However, this might make them a bit soft, so it’s best to use the oven or skillet for that extra crunch.
4. Reheat with a Damp Paper Towel in the Microwave 🧻
   To avoid drying out your egg rolls in the microwave, cover them with a damp paper towel before reheating. This will help keep them moist while they warm up.

By following these storage and reheating tips, your Korean Egg Rolls will stay just as delicious as when you first made them, so you can enjoy them anytime!

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Final Thoughts

And there you have it—crispy, delicious, and totally satisfying Korean Egg Rolls. Whether you're making them for a casual lunch or as part of a bigger spread, they’re bound to steal the show. Paired with that zesty Spicy Cucumber Salad, you’ve got a meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So grab those eggs, fire up the pan, and enjoy a plate of pure comfort! Can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!

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