Discover the History and Tradition Behind Lumpia A Culinary Journey

Lumpia is more than just a tasty snack; it’s a cherished dish with a rich history that spans multiple cultures. Originally from China, started as a traditional spring roll, enjoyed during the Lunar New Year to symbolize good fortune and prosperity. Its journey didn’t stop there. As Chinese immigrants traveled to the Philippines, they brought with them, where it was embraced and adapted to include local flavors and ingredients.

The Origins of A Historical Journey

Lumpia’s story begins in China, where it was known as a traditional spring roll. These crispy, golden rolls have been a staple during the Lunar New Year, a major celebration marking the start of the Chinese New Year. The custom of eating during this time was believed to bring good fortune and happiness for the coming year. In its earliest form, was made with a variety of ingredients including finely chopped vegetables, meats, and sometimes seafood, all wrapped in a delicate, crispy skin. This tradition was not just about the taste but also carried symbolic meanings, with each ingredient chosen for its supposed ability to attract prosperity and success.

This is a traditional Filipino recipe for lumpia, or fried spring rolls. They’re made with paper-thin lumpia wrappers and filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, cabbage, and other vegetables. Serve lumpia as a side dish or appetizer with a sweet chili dipping sauce.

Submitted by LILQTPINAY23

What Is Lumpia?

Lumpia are fried spring rolls that are found in Filipino and Indonesian cuisines. The rolls traditionally feature a thin pastry skin (a.k.a. a lumpia wrapper) and are often stuffed with a savory mixture of ground pork and vegetables.

lumpia with dipping sauce — Kim’s Cooking Now

How to Make Lumpia

You’ll find the full, step-by-step recipe below — but here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

1. Make the filling: Cook the pork until crumbly and set aside. Drain most (but not all) of the grease. Cook the onion and garlic in the remaining grease. Return the pork to the pan and stir in the veggies, cilantro, and seasonings. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. Assemble the lumpia: Place three tablespoons of the filling on the wrapper and follow the instructions to roll and seal the lumpia. Repeat until all the rolls are assembled.
3. Fry the lumpia: Heat oil in a skillet. Fry the lumpia three to four rolls at a time. Turn until all sides are brown. Drain on a paper towel.

How to Serve Lumpia

Lumpia is often served with a sweet chili dipping sauce (this 5-ingredient Hot and Sweet Dipping Sauce is an excellent choice). If you’re sensitive to heat, you could try with a classic Sweet and Sour Sauce.

Make it a meal by pairing your lumpia with Garlic Fried Rice or serving it as an appetizer for a traditional Filipino main dish, such as Caldereta.

Close up view of traditional filipino lumpias with sauce and vegetables on a platter — Eric Ochieng

How to Store Lumpia

Allow the rolls to cool, then transfer the leftovers to an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. Store the lumpia in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Can You Freeze Lumpia?

Yes, but it’s best to freeze the lumpia before you fry it.

To freeze un-fried lumpia: Arrange the cooled rolls on a baking sheet, then cover with storage wrap. Freeze for a few hours or up to overnight. When the lumpia are frozen solid, transfer the rolls to a zip-top freezer bag (don’t forget to squeeze out the excess air) or another freezer-safe container. Wrap in foil for added protection. Lumpia can be frozen for up to three months.

There’s no need to thaw — just go ahead and fry the lumpia from frozen.

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“I had wanted to make these for a long time, but I thought that they would be really hard to make,” says misspiggy067. “Boy, was I wrong. They are really easy and they taste wonderful!! My family loves them.”

“I am Filipino and have tasted many different Lumpia recipes…this was a great one,” raves Baker. “I found you have to be very careful with the temperature of the oil, definitely keep it at medium. If the oil is too hot, the outside cooks too quickly and the inner wrapper doesn’t get crispy.”

“I almost wish I didn’t know how easy and cheap it is to make these in my own kitchen,” shesinparties. “Now I find myself standing in my kitchen in the morning wondering how lumpia would go with my coffee. Seriously, these things are so easy and awesome.”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

1 pound ground pork

½ cup chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, crushed

½ cup minced carrots

½ cup chopped green onions

½ cup thinly sliced green cabbage

2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro (Optional)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon soy sauce

30 lumpia wrappers

2 cups vegetable oil for frying, or as needed

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Directions

Gather all ingredients.

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Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add pork; cook and stir until crumbly and no longer pink, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove pork from the pan and set aside. Drain grease from the pan, leaving just a thin coating.

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Add onion and garlic to the pan; cook and stir until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

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Stir in cooked pork, carrots, green onions, cabbage, and cilantro. Season with pepper, salt, garlic powder, and soy sauce. Remove from the heat, and set aside until cool enough to handle, about 5 minutes.

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To assemble lumpia: Place 3 heaping tablespoons of filling diagonally near one corner of a lumpia wrapper, leaving a 1 ½ inch space at both ends.

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Fold the side along the length of the filling over the filling, tuck in both ends, and roll neatly and tightly to close.

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Moisten the other side of the wrapper with water to seal the edge. Transfer to a plate and cover with plastic wrap to retain moisture. Repeat to assemble remaining lumpia.

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Heat 1/2 inch vegetable oil in a heavy skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes.
Slide 3 to 4 lumpia into the hot oil, making sure the seams are facing down. Fry, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Repeat to fry remaining lumpia.

FAQs About Lumpia

1. What Is the Difference Between Lumpia and a Traditional Spring Roll?

Lumpia and traditional spring rolls are similar since both use a thin pastry wrapper to encase a savory filling. However, Lumpia typically has a thinner wrapper unique to Filipino and Indonesian cuisines, and it often includes ground pork, cabbage, and local spices. Additionally, Lumpia is usually paired with a sweet chili or sweet and sour dipping sauce.

2. Can Lumpia Be Made Vegetarian or Vegan?

Yes, Lumpia can easily be made vegetarian or vegan! Substitute the ground pork with tofu, mushrooms, or other plant-based proteins. Vegetables like carrots, cabbage, bean sprouts, and green onions still provide a delicious flavor and texture.

3. How Do I Prevent Lumpia Wrappers from Tearing While Assembling?

To prevent Lumpia wrappers from tearing, make sure they are at room temperature before use. Handle them gently and cover them with a damp cloth to maintain moisture. If the wrappers are too dry or cold, they may tear more easily.

4. What’s the Best Oil for Frying Lumpia?

Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are great choices for frying Lumpia because of their high smoke points and neutral flavors. These oils ensure Lumpia becomes crispy and golden without adding any unwanted taste.

5. Can I Bake Lumpia Instead of Frying It?

Yes, you can bake Lumpia for a healthier option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the assembled Lumpia on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush them lightly with oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.

6. How Do I Reheat Leftover Lumpia?

To reheat leftover Lumpia, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Lumpia on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can result in a soggy texture.

7. Can I Make Lumpia Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can assemble Lumpia ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before frying. Alternatively, freeze them for up to three months and fry them directly from the freezer when ready to enjoy.

8. What Are Some Popular Dipping Sauces to Serve with Lumpia?

Sweet chili sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or garlic vinegar are popular dipping sauces for Lumpia. Each adds a unique flavor profile that complements the savory filling and crispy exterior of the Lumpia.

Conclusion

Lumpia is more than just a delicious snack; it’s a dish rich in history, culture, and tradition. Originating in China and evolving through its journey to the Philippines and Indonesia, Lumpia has become a beloved staple in Filipino and Indonesian cuisine. With its crispy exterior and savory filling, Lumpia is perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack and can be customized to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy it fried or baked, with a spicy or sweet dipping sauce, Lumpia offers a delightful bite of culture and flavor in every roll. So, try making Lumpia at home and enjoy this tasty and versatile dish with family and friends!

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