Juicy Pulled Pork Egg Rolls

When you need an appetizer guaranteed to wow a crowd or bring something new to game night these pulled pork egg rolls are definitely what you want on the table They meld crisp golden wrappers with juicy barbecue pork melty Monterey Jack and a zingy homemade sauce for dipping Every bite is a knockout—sharing is the hardest part

Whenever friends gather at my house these vanishing egg rolls become the first thing talked about and always the first thing gone I remember the first batch disappearing before I could even snap a quick photo

Ingredients

• Pulled pork: for that smoky savory flavor buy pre-made or use leftovers from a slow cook
• Monterey Jack cheese: brings gooey creaminess choose a block and shred yourself for better melting
• Coleslaw: provides crunch and brightness opt for freshly made slaw with a little tang
• Egg roll wrappers: the golden crisp shell seek out wrappers in the refrigerated section for freshness and flexibility
• BBQ sauce: for rich sweet heat pick your favorite brand or homemade
• Mayonnaise: base for the dipping sauce go with a creamy option like Hellmanns
• Apple cider vinegar: to add tartness and zing use one with a deep amber color and natural sediment
• Worcestershire sauce: gives the sauce that umami kick check that it is not too salty
• Horseradish sauce: offers a subtle heat use fresh or prepared quality makes a difference
• Ground black pepper: for a bite always choose fresh cracked for the best aroma
• Garlic salt and onion powder: for savory backbone use high quality spices for deeper flavor
• Kosher salt: balances the flavors opt for a flaky coarse variety if possible
• Cayenne pepper: gives a gentle heat level feel free to adjust for your spice tolerance
• Water: needed for sealing wrappers filtered or tap water both work just fine

Instructions

Prepare the Dipping Sauce:

Start by measuring each sauce ingredient into a medium bowl combine mayonnaise apple cider vinegar Worcestershire horseradish black pepper garlic salt onion powder kosher salt and cayenne ensuring each one is incorporated evenly whisk everything together by hand until completely smooth and there are no streaks once mixed cover tightly and refrigerate so the flavor can become more robust

Assemble the Egg Rolls:

Clear your workspace and lay out all twelve wrappers arrange in neat rows for efficiency spoon a generous amount of coleslaw into the exact center of each wrapper then layer a quarter cup of shredded pulled pork right over the slaw drizzle on the BBQ sauce across the pork to distribute flavor top with a mound of grated Monterey Jack so there is cheese in every bite

Roll the Egg Rolls:

Before starting dip your finger into water and run it along every edge of the wrapper to help them stick tightly fold the bottom corner up and over the filling use both thumbs for better control then continue rolling up just tightly enough to keep everything together but not burst the wrapper next pull in the left and right sides of the wrapper folding to the center and pressing lightly it will now look a bit like an envelope with exposed top edge keep rolling upwards until closed seal down the last edge carefully pressing to avoid openings add a touch more water if the wrapper resists sealing

Air Fry the Egg Rolls:

Set the air fryer to 400 degrees and let it fully preheat arrange the egg rolls in a single uncrowded layer in the basket avoid stacking for even crisping apply a light layer of nonstick spray over the top shells for extra crunch air fry for about three minutes then open the fryer turn each roll over gently and spray again continue cooking another three minutes until every side is golden and crisp without burning

Serve and Enjoy:

Lift out the cooked egg rolls using tongs and let rest briefly on a wire rack or plate to prevent sogginess serve them warm not hot for the best texture set out the chilled dipping sauce on the side dip and enjoy while the cheese is still melty and the wrappers are just out of the fryer

If I had to choose one thing that makes these egg rolls special it would be the homemade dipping sauce I have vivid memories from last summer laughing with friends as we dunked egg rolls in extra sauce right from the mixing bowl not a drop left behind

Storage Tips

Once cooked these are best crispy straight out of the air fryer If you have leftovers let them cool completely then store in an airtight container for up to three days To reheat use the air fryer again for just a few minutes so the wrapper crisps back up The sauce also keeps well for about five days in the fridge just give it a stir before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Shredded chicken or smoked brisket substitute beautifully for pulled pork if you want a switch up Pepper Jack cheese can add a touch more spice No coleslaw on hand Try shredded cabbage mixed with a little vinegar and sugar for brightness

Serving Suggestions

These egg rolls are made for dipping but you do not have to stick to the sauce recipe Ranch or spicy honey mustard are excellent Try cutting the rolls in half for bite sized party appetizers I love piling them on a platter with extra pickles on the side

Cultural roots

Asian American egg rolls have become a fun blank canvas for global flavors Pulled pork egg rolls nod to classic BBQ while embracing the crispy wrapper of Chinese takeout traditions Such mashups always bring a smile to gatherings at my table bridging culinary worlds

Seasonal Adaptations

During summer events opt for a tangier slaw with apple chunks and fresh herbs When fall arrives fold in a little smoky chipotle and roasted corn For winter game days hearty spicy cheese inside will keep everyone satisfied

These egg rolls are easy to make ahead and freeze for quick snacks all season long Flexible fillings and fun sauces keep everyone happy

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use leftover pork for these egg rolls?

Yes, shredded leftover pork works perfectly, making prep even quicker and just as flavorful.

→ Is it necessary to use Monterey Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack melts beautifully, but you can substitute with mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor.

→ How do I keep egg rolls from drying out in the air fryer?

Lightly spraying the rolls with oil and ensuring they are not overcrowded helps maintain crispness without drying.

→ Can these egg rolls be frozen before air frying?

Yes, assemble and freeze them on a tray. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

→ What side dishes pair well with pulled pork egg rolls?

Refreshing salads, pickled vegetables, or a tangy slaw make great accompaniments to balance the flavors.