Beef lumpia are crispy spring rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and veggies. They’re a tasty treat that brings a crunchy bite in every mouthful.
These little rolls are perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer. You can bet I’ll always grab a few when they’re on the table—I mean, who can resist that crunch? 😄
Making beef lumpia is easy! Just wrap the filling, fry until golden, and enjoy. They’re best served with a dipping sauce for that extra zing. Trust me, you’ll want to share!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star ingredient, providing a rich flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian version, try using mushrooms or plant-derived proteins like textured vegetable protein (TVP).
Onion and Garlic: Both add depth and aroma. For a milder taste, use shallots instead of onions. If you don’t have garlic, garlic powder can be an option, but fresh is always preferred for the best flavor.
Vegetables: Carrots, green beans, and red bell pepper add color and crunch. You can easily substitute with peas or corn if needed. The cabbage is optional but adds an extra layer of texture; I find it enhances the overall taste.
Lumpia Wrappers: These are crucial for the lumpia’s shape and texture. If you can’t find lumpia wrappers, spring roll wrappers are a great substitute. Just keep in mind they may require different handling, as they can be thicker.
Oyster Sauce: This adds a nice umami flavor. If you want to keep it vegetarian, look for mushroom soy sauce or simply increase the soy sauce amount for strong flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Lumpia Stays Closed During Frying?
Securing the lumpia is key to keeping your filling from spilling out. Here’s how to do it correctly:
- When folding the wrapper, make sure to roll tightly from the filling side to minimize gaps.
- Seal the top corner of the wrapper with a small amount of water or beaten egg. This adhesive helps hold it together while frying.
- If you notice any tears or holes, you can cut a small piece of extra wrapper as a patch, sealing it the same way.
Take your time to fold neatly and tightly, and this will pay off with beautiful, crisp lumpia!
How to Make Beef Lumpia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, finely diced
- 1/2 cup green beans, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, finely shredded (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Wrappers:
- Lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers), about 20 pieces
- Cooking oil for deep frying
For Serving:
- Sweet chili sauce or dipping sauce of choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and approximately 15-20 minutes of cooking time, for a total of about 40-45 minutes. You’ll spend time sautéing the beef and vegetables, then assembling and frying the lumpia—perfect for a quick and delicious snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, and sauté them until they smell wonderful and the onion is translucent.
2. Cook the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook it until it’s browned and there are no pink bits left, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrots, chopped green beans, red bell pepper, and the shredded cabbage if you’re using it. Continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender but still a little crunchy.
4. Season the Mixture:
Add in the soy sauce, the optional oyster sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it cook for another 2 minutes. After that, remove the pan from heat and gently stir in the chopped green onions. Let the filling cool slightly.
5. Assemble the Lumpia:
Once the filling has cooled, lay a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you (forming a diamond shape). Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the beef filling near the bottom corner of the wrapper.
6. Roll and Seal:
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in both sides tightly. Roll up the wrapper firmly to encase the filling, and seal the top corner with a dab of water or beaten egg to keep it from opening while frying.
7. Fry the Lumpia:
In a deep pan, heat cooking oil over medium-high heat until hot. Fry the lumpia in batches, turning occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan!
8. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the lumpia with a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. Serve them hot with sweet chili sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy your crispy, savory Beef Lumpia! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Make Beef Lumpia Ahead of Time?
Yes, absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to assemble and fry the lumpia right before serving for the best texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Lumpia?
Leftover lumpia can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Can I Use Other Meat or Make This Vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time for different proteins as needed.
What Can I Serve with Beef Lumpia?
Beef Lumpia pairs beautifully with sweet chili sauce, but you can also serve it with soy sauce, vinegar with garlic, or any dipping sauce of your choice. Side options include rice, noodles, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
