Get set to embrace National Egg Roll Day on June 10th! This joyful occasion pays homage to the cherished Chinese culinary delight—the egg roll. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, this classic dish holds a special place in various cultures worldwide. The egg roll skillfully blends crunchy vegetables and savory meats encased in a delicate, crispy wrapper—creating an utterly irresistible treat! So, prepare your appetite because it's a perfect moment to celebrate this delectable day alongside your loved ones.

History of the Egg Roll

The egg roll has an interesting and somewhat unclear history. While it is commonly associated with Chinese cuisine, its origins are believed to be distinctly American. The egg roll is a close cousin of the spring roll, a lighter and more delicate version of the dish that originated in China. The Americanized version, often deep-fried and filled with more robust ingredients like pork, cabbage, and carrots, became popular in the United States in the early 20th century.

The exact origins of the modern egg roll are debated, but some sources suggest that Henry Low, a Chinese-American chef, included a recipe for "egg rolls" in his 1938 cookbook "Cook at Home in Chinese." However, it’s important to note that despite its name, traditional American egg rolls do not usually contain egg in the filling; the "egg" aspect might refer to the egg wash used on the wrapper or a misinterpretation of the spring roll.

What is an Egg Roll?

An egg roll is a savory dish typically made by wrapping a thin dough around a filling of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, cabbage, carrots, and various seasonings. The roll is then deep-fried until crispy and golden.

Here are some common features of egg rolls:

1. Wrapper: Egg roll wrappers are usually thicker and more doughy than those used for spring rolls. They may or may not contain egg.
2. Filling: The most common filling is a mixture of ground pork, shredded cabbage, and carrots. Other variations may include shrimp, chicken, or even vegetarian options.
3. Cooking Method: Egg rolls are deep-fried, giving them their signature crispy texture and golden-brown color. This sets them apart from the lighter spring rolls, which are often steamed or baked.
4. Serving: Egg rolls are typically served as an appetizer or side dish, accompanied by dipping sauces like soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or duck sauce.

How to Celebrate National Egg Roll Day

There are many ways to celebrate National Egg Roll Day, whether you’re enjoying egg rolls from your favorite restaurant or trying your hand at making them at home:

1. Order Egg Rolls from a Local Restaurant: Many Chinese-American restaurants offer delicious egg rolls as part of their menu. You can celebrate by ordering egg rolls to go, trying different varieties, and maybe pairing them with other traditional dishes like fried rice or lo mein.

2. Make Homemade Egg Rolls: Try your hand at making egg rolls from scratch. Experiment with different fillings like pork, shrimp, or even creative twists like cheeseburger or Philly cheesesteak egg rolls. There are also baked or air-fried options if you prefer a healthier version.

3. Host an Egg Roll Party: Gather friends and family for an egg roll-themed party. You can set up a make-your-own egg roll station, where everyone can choose their favorite fillings, wrap their own rolls, and either fry or bake them together. Include a variety of sauces for dipping to add even more flavor.

4. Explore Regional Variations: While the classic Chinese-American egg roll is popular, there are many variations of the dish across different cuisines. For example, Filipino lumpia is a thinner and often smaller version, and Vietnamese cha gio uses rice paper for a lighter texture. Explore and appreciate the global influence on this beloved dish.

5. Try a Dessert Egg Roll: For a unique twist, try making or ordering dessert egg rolls. Some fun ideas include apple pie egg rolls, Nutella banana egg rolls, or even s'mores egg rolls. These sweet versions are a delightful way to end a meal.

Fun Facts About Egg Rolls

• Not Traditionally Chinese: Despite being served at almost every Chinese-American restaurant, egg rolls are considered an American creation. Traditional Chinese spring rolls are lighter and not deep-fried.

• Varieties: Egg rolls come in a variety of styles, depending on the region. Some are filled with shrimp or beef, while others focus on vegetables. There are even non-traditional egg rolls like cheeseburger egg rolls or dessert egg rolls.

• Caloric Value: A typical pork egg roll contains about 200 calories, with much of it coming from the frying oil used to cook the wrapper.

• Dipping Sauces: Common dipping sauces for egg rolls include sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, duck sauce, and spicy mustard.

• Misnomer: Contrary to popular belief, most egg rolls do not contain any egg in the filling. The name may derive from early versions of the dish that included eggs in the wrapper batter.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to enjoy egg rolls in a healthier way, there are several alternatives:

• Baked Egg Rolls: Instead of deep-frying, bake the egg rolls for a lighter version that still maintains a crisp texture.
• Air-Fried Egg Rolls: Air fryers have become a popular tool for achieving a fried texture with minimal oil. Air-fried egg rolls are a great way to enjoy the dish with less fat.
• Vegetarian or Vegan Egg Rolls: Skip the meat and focus on a filling of vegetables or tofu to create a plant-based version of the egg roll.

Conclusion

National Egg Roll Day is a fun celebration of this delicious, crispy appetizer that has become a beloved part of American cuisine. Whether you choose to enjoy the classic pork-filled version or experiment with new flavors, June 10th is the perfect day to savor this tasty treat. Whether from a restaurant or homemade, egg rolls are sure to bring joy to any table!