Egg rolls are one of the most versatile and beloved appetizers in many cultures, particularly in Asian cuisine. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, they provide a delicious snack or starter. But to elevate this tasty treat to a full meal, you’ll want to pair it with complementary side dishes and sauces that enhance the flavors and textures. So, if you’re wondering what goes well with egg rolls, you’ve come to the right place! This comprehensive guide will explore the best traditional and non-traditional pairings for it, dipping sauces, and even answer some frequently asked questions.
Why Are Egg Rolls So Popular?
Egg rolls have gained popularity worldwide, and it’s not hard to see why. Their crunchy exterior, filled with flavorful meat, veggies, and sometimes noodles, offers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. They are a perfect mix of savory, crunchy, and satisfying. Their versatility as an appetizer, snack, or even main dish makes them a staple in both restaurants and home kitchens. But the real magic of it comes from what you serve with them.
1. Classic Pairings for Egg Rolls
When it comes to classic pairings, there are several traditional options you can’t go wrong with. These well-loved dishes not only complement the flavors of it but also enhance the dining experience by creating a harmonious meal.
Fried Rice
Fried rice is perhaps the most iconic and common dish served with this recipe. Whether you go for the classic vegetable fried rice or a more hearty version like chicken fried rice, the texture and flavors of the rice perfectly balance the crispy and savory egg rolls. Fried rice brings a nice mix of starch, vegetables, and flavor, all cooked together with soy sauce, garlic, and sometimes sesame oil. The grains of rice absorb any dipping sauce you use, making it a perfect complement.
Lo Mein
Another staple dish often served alongside egg rolls is lo mein. This savory noodle dish is known for its soft, chewy noodles that are stir-fried with vegetables and sauce, providing a great contrast to the crunchy egg rolls. While similar to chow mein, lo mein is softer because the noodles are boiled and then combined with the sauce.
Learn more about the difference between lo mein and chow mein here.
Hot and Sour Soup
For those cold days or when you’re in the mood for something comforting, pair your egg rolls with a warm bowl of hot and sour soup. The tanginess from the vinegar and the slight kick from the pepper in the soup makes it an excellent complement to the savory, crispy one.
Steamed Jasmine Rice
Sometimes simplicity is key. Steamed jasmine rice provides a neutral and fragrant side dish that works perfectly with it, especially if you’re serving them with a rich or flavorful sauce. The lightness of the rice contrasts well with the dense, savory egg roll.
2. Vegetable-Based Pairings for a Healthier Option
If you’re looking for something lighter and more refreshing to balance out the richness of egg rolls, vegetable-based dishes are the way to go. These sides add freshness and crunch, helping to cut through the fried exterior of it.
Asian Slaw
Asian slaw is a refreshing and crunchy option that works wonderfully with egg rolls. Made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame ginger dressing, this slaw offers both sweetness and acidity to balance the flavors. The crispness of the cabbage, combined with the sharpness of ginger and the nuttiness of sesame oil, contrasts beautifully with the richness of it.
Garlic Green Beans
One of the most popular side dishes to pair with egg rolls is garlic green beans. The green beans are stir-fried until they’re tender-crisp and then tossed in garlic, soy sauce, and sometimes sesame oil. The fresh, savory flavors of the green beans enhance the umami of it without overpowering them.
Bok Choy
Another great option is bok choy, a leafy green vegetable that can be stir-fried or steamed. Its slightly bitter flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the fried texture of egg rolls. Baby bok choy is particularly popular because it’s tender and absorbs the flavor of the sauces it’s cooked in.
Cucumber Salad
For a cool, refreshing option, you can serve a cucumber salad alongside your egg rolls. This salad is often made with thinly sliced cucumbers, red pepper flakes, and a light dressing of soy sauce and ginger. The crisp, cold cucumbers balance the richness of it, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and snap peas are a colorful and flavorful addition to any egg roll-based meal. Seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, these vegetables not only bring variety to the table but also add a healthy, nutritious component.
3. Non-Traditional Pairings: Think Outside the Box
While traditional sides like fried rice and vegetables are classic options, don’t be afraid to experiment with more unconventional pairings. Here are some non-traditional sides that might surprise you:
Mozzarella Sticks
Mozzarella sticks and egg rolls may seem like an odd combination, but they actually complement each other very well. Both are fried and crispy on the outside, but mozzarella sticks add a cheesy, gooey element that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling of it.
Guacamole
Guacamole is typically associated with Mexican cuisine, but its creamy texture and zesty flavors pair surprisingly well with egg rolls. The avocado’s creaminess balances the crunch of the egg roll, while the lime and cilantro add a refreshing twist.
Spinach Artichoke Dip
For a creamy and indulgent pairing, try serving your egg rolls with spinach artichoke dip. The richness of the cheese and the slight tang from the artichokes complement the savory egg rolls, making for a fun fusion meal.
4. Dipping Sauces That Pair Well With Egg Rolls
No egg roll meal is complete without the perfect dipping sauce. Here are some of the best sauces to serve with egg rolls:
Sweet and Sour Sauce
A staple of many Asian-inspired meals, sweet and sour sauce is a must-have with egg rolls. The tanginess from the vinegar and sweetness from the sugar make it the perfect complement to the crispy, savory rolls.
Garlic Honey Soy Sauce
Garlic honey soy sauce adds a sweet, salty, and slightly spicy flavor to the egg rolls. The garlic adds depth, while the honey brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory filling.
Explore more dipping sauce options for appetizers here.
Plum Sauce
Plum sauce is a sweet and tangy sauce often used in Chinese cuisine. Its thick, syrupy consistency pairs well with the crispy texture of the egg rolls, and its flavor enhances the savory filling.
Spicy Mustard
For those who love a bit of heat, spicy mustard is a great dipping sauce for egg rolls. Its sharp, pungent flavor cuts through the richness of the fried rolls, adding a bold flavor to each bite.
5. FAQs: Common Questions About What Goes Well With Egg Rolls
What are the best vegetable sides for egg rolls?
Some of the best vegetable sides include Asian slaw, garlic green beans, and steamed bok choy. These sides offer freshness, crunch, and flavor balance, making them ideal companions for this dish.
Can I serve egg rolls with non-Asian dishes?
Absolutely! Egg rolls are incredibly versatile and can be paired with non-Asian dishes like mozzarella sticks, guacamole, or even spinach artichoke dip. These combinations create a fun fusion-style meal.
What soups go well with egg rolls?
Some of the best soups to pair with it include hot and sour soup, egg drop soup, and wonton soup. The warmth and flavor of these soups complement the crunchy texture of it.
Can I serve egg rolls as a main dish?
Yes, it can definitely be served as a main dish! To make them a more filling meal, simply pair them with heartier sides like fried rice, lo mein, or even quinoa for a modern twist. You can also add a protein-packed soup like hot and sour soup or egg drop soup to create a balanced meal. If you’re hosting, consider serving it alongside a variety of dipping sauces to add flavor variety and ensure a satisfying main course.
Conclusion
Egg rolls are a versatile dish that can be paired with a wide variety of sides, from classic options like fried rice and vegetable stir-fries to non-traditional pairings like mozzarella sticks and guacamole. The key is to balance the rich, savory flavors of it with refreshing, light, or creamy sides to create a satisfying meal.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a family meal, or simply looking to try something new, there are endless possibilities when it comes to what goes well with egg rolls. By experimenting with different sides and sauces, you can turn a simple appetizer into a complete and exciting meal.
Next time you’re serving your dish, try one of these pairings and enjoy the delicious variety they bring to your table.