Panda Express egg rolls feature a crispy and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for snacking or as an addition to a larger meal. Panda Express is a popular Chinese fast-food chain in the United States, known for its tasty and quick meals. Among their many offerings, the Panda Express egg roll stands out as a customer favorite.
What is a Panda Express Egg Roll?
A Panda Express egg roll is a fried roll filled with a mixture of shredded vegetables and meat, wrapped in a thin, crispy pastry wrapper. It’s a classic Chinese dish that’s commonly served as an appetizer or snack. Panda Express’s egg roll is known for its unique blend of flavors and textures, with a crispy exterior and a savory and slightly sweet filling.
Panda Express Chicken Egg Rolls Ingredients
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 2 cups of cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup of carrots, shredded
- 1/2 cup of onions, diced
- 1/4 cup of green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 lb. of ground chicken or pork (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten for sealing the egg rolls
- Vegetable oil for frying
How to Make Panda Express Egg Rolls?
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, onions, green onions, cilantro, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- If using ground chicken or pork, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and add the meat to the vegetable mixture.
- To assemble the egg rolls, lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the sides in. Brush the top corner with the beaten egg, and roll the egg roll up tightly, sealing the edge with the egg wash.
- Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F), carefully add the egg rolls to the pan, seam side down. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
- Serve the egg rolls hot, with your favorite dipping sauce.
Storage Ideas
Panda Express egg rolls are best served fresh and hot, but you can store them in the fridge for later consumption. To store the egg rolls, let them cool down completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat the egg rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.
Health Benefits
While Panda Express egg rolls are a tasty treat, they are not necessarily the healthiest option due to their fried nature. However, they do contain some nutritional value.
Nutrition Facts for Panda Express Chicken Egg Roll (1 serving):
- Calories: 200
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 430mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 22g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 8g
While egg rolls are not the healthiest food choice due to their high sodium and fat content, they do contain some nutritional benefits. For instance, they can be a source of protein and fiber, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that egg rolls are typically high in calories and may contribute to weight gain or other health issues when consumed in excess. Additionally, the frying process can add unhealthy fats to the dish, making it less healthy overall.
To make egg rolls a healthier option, consider baking or air frying them instead of deep frying. You can also fill them with a variety of vegetables and lean proteins to increase their nutritional value. Additionally, pairing egg rolls with a side of vegetables or a salad can help balance out the meal and provide additional nutrients.
FAQ
Are Panda Express egg rolls gluten-free?
Unfortunately, Panda Express egg rolls are not gluten-free, as they are made with wheat-based egg roll wrappers.
Can I make Panda Express egg rolls without meat?
Yes, you can make vegetarian or vegan egg rolls by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables or tofu instead.
What dipping sauces go well with Panda Express egg rolls?
Panda Express offers a variety of dipping sauces, including sweet and sour, hot mustard, and soy sauce. You can also make your own dipping sauce by mixing together soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chili flakes.
How many calories are in a Panda Express egg roll?
A single Panda Express egg roll contains about 200 calories.
Final Thoughts
Panda Express egg rolls are a delicious and easy appetizer that can be enjoyed at any time. By following the recipe above, you can make your own version of these crispy, savory rolls in the comfort of your own home. With a little practice, you’ll be able to create the perfect Panda Express egg rolls that your family and friends will love.
