Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was developed at its original yield. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly. Original recipe (1X) yields 8 servings.

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6 ounces fully cooked luncheon meat (such as SPAM), chopped
• 3 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons water, or as needed
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
• 8 (7-inch) square egg roll wrappers
• 1 1/2 cups sweet and sour sauce for dipping (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Stir-fry the luncheon meat and jalapeno peppers until lightly browned, about 7 minutes. Remove from heat, transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: In a bowl, stir together the cooked luncheon meat, jalapenos, cream cheese, and Cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 3: To prepare the egg rolls, lay one egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointed toward you, resembling a diamond. Place about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of the filling in the center of the wrapper.

Step 4: Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold the left and right corners inward toward the center. Carefully roll the egg roll away from you toward the top corner. Brush a bit of water over the inside of the top corner to seal the egg roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Step 5: Fill a large saucepan with about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Working in batches of 3 to 4, fry the egg rolls until browned on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Nutrition Facts

Each serving contains:

Calories	462
Total Fat	31g (40% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat	11g (56% Daily Value)
Cholesterol	66mg (22% Daily Value)
Sodium	893mg (39% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrates	29g (11% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber	3g (9% Daily Value)
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	16g (33% Daily Value)
Vitamin C	2mg (2% Daily Value)
Calcium	170mg (13% Daily Value)
Iron	2mg (9% Daily Value)
Potassium	318mg (7% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Please consult a doctor or registered dietitian if you are following a medically restrictive diet.

Origin Story

The combination of jalapeos and cream cheese in a deep-fried wrapper has roots in the Southwestern United States. The dish blends the flavors of a traditional Mexican jalapeo popper with the iconic egg roll from Asian cuisine, creating a fusion of spicy, creamy, and crispy elements. The jalapeo popper itself is believed to have originated in the 1970s in Texas, where the local love for spicy peppers made it a popular snack. The idea of wrapping this flavorful filling in an egg roll wrapper and frying it was likely inspired by the popularity of egg rolls as appetizers in American Chinese cuisine, especially in fusion restaurants. Over time, the dish evolved into the form we know today, with variations appearing across different regions.

Regional Variations

While the Jalapeo Popper Egg Rolls are a fusion dish, they have become a favorite snack in various regions of the United States, especially in the South and Southwest. In Texas, they are often served at barbecues, casual gatherings, or as appetizers in Tex-Mex restaurants. In California, where Asian fusion cuisine is prevalent, these egg rolls are frequently featured on restaurant menus. Additionally, some regional variations use different meats or cheeses to fill the rolls, such as adding bacon or substituting the cheddar for a milder Monterey Jack, reflecting local flavor preferences.

Difference from Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional egg rolls, which are typically filled with vegetables or meats like pork or shrimp, Jalapeo Popper Egg Rolls stand out because of their creamy filling and spicy heat from the jalapeos. The inclusion of luncheon meat (like SPAM) adds a savory, umami-rich depth, while the cream cheese provides a smooth, cooling contrast to the heat. This makes them more indulgent than classic vegetable-based egg rolls, offering a unique twist that incorporates the beloved flavors of jalapeo poppers into a fried roll. The key difference lies in the balance between spicy, creamy, and savory, a flavor profile not commonly found in traditional egg rolls.

Where They Are Typically Served

Jalapeo Popper Egg Rolls are commonly served as appetizers in both casual dining restaurants and bars. They are especially popular in places that offer a Tex-Mex or fusion menu. They also make an appearance at family gatherings, parties, and tailgates, where their bite-sized portions and bold flavors are appreciated by crowds. Additionally, they can be found at food trucks and pop-up stands specializing in fusion cuisine, offering a modern take on classic comfort food.

Fun Facts

• Although jalapeo poppers are a Tex-Mex classic, the idea of combining them with egg rolls is relatively new, emerging in the 2000s as part of the trend of fusion food.
• The dish is not just spicy, but also offers a fun textural contrast: crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making it a hit with those who enjoy both textures in their food.
• Some variations of the recipe include additional ingredients like bacon, which intensifies the savory flavors and makes them even more indulgent.
• Despite being deep-fried, the dish is surprisingly light when prepared properly, as the oil is absorbed minimally if fried at the right temperature.

FAQ about Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls Recipe