Freshly fried Filipino lumpia on a white plate, garnished with parsley and served with sweet chili sauce on a rustic wooden table.
Traditional Filipino lumpia served with a classic sweet chili dipping sauce.


Are you ready to learn how to make authentic and irresistible Filipino lumpia? Lumpia, or Filipino spring rolls, are beloved appetizers that combine savory filling and a perfectly crispy wrapper. Whether you're new to cooking lumpia or looking to perfect your recipe, this guide has everything you need.

What is Lumpia?

Lumpia are thin spring rolls popular in Filipino and Indonesian cuisines. They are typically filled with ground meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices, then fried to golden perfection. Known for their crisp texture and flavorful fillings, lumpia are a crowd favorite, often served at family gatherings and celebrations

Why Lumpia is Loved Worldwide

Lumpia’s appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be customized with various fillings to suit dietary preferences, and it pairs well with an array of dipping sauces. These crispy delights have become a staple in Filipino households and are now cherished worldwide

 Step-by-Step Guide to Making Lumpia

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make about 30 lumpia rolls:

  • 1 pound ground pork or chicken
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup shredded carrots
  • ½ cup chopped green onions
  • ½ cup shredded cabbage
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 30 lumpia wrappers
  • 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Preparing the Lumpia Filling

  1. Cook the Meat:
    Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground pork or chicken and cook until no longer pink. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.

  2. Sauté the Aromatics:
    In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.

  3. Combine the Ingredients:
    Return the cooked meat to the skillet. Add the carrots, green onions, cabbage, soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir until the vegetables soften slightly. Set aside to cool.

 How to Assemble Lumpia

  1. Prepare the Wrappers:
    Lay a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface with one corner facing you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the corner.

  2. Roll the Lumpia:
    Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly to seal. Use a dab of water on the edges to secure the wrapper.

  3. Repeat:
    Assemble the remaining lumpia rolls, placing them on a tray lined with wax paper.


Frying the Lumpia

  1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Ensure the oil is hot enough by testing with a small piece of wrapper—it should sizzle immediately.
  2. Fry 3-4 lumpia rolls at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
  3. Drain on a plate lined with paper towels.

Tips for Perfect Lumpia

Choosing the Right Wrappers

Lumpia wrappers are thinner than traditional egg roll wrappers, giving them a lighter, crispier texture. Look for them in Asian grocery stores for the best results.

Preventing Oil Splatter

Ensure your lumpia are sealed tightly before frying to prevent oil from splattering.

Pairing Lumpia with Dipping Sauces

Sweet chili sauce, vinegar with garlic and chili, or soy-based sauces complement the crispy lumpia perfectly.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Traditional Serving Style

Serve lumpia hot as an appetizer or snack. Pair them with garlic fried rice or a classic Filipino dish like pancit.

Creative Variations

  • Vegetarian Lumpia: Replace the meat with tofu or mushrooms.
  • Seafood Lumpia: Use shrimp or crab as the main filling.
  • Baked Lumpia: Brush the rolls with oil and bake them at 400°F for a healthier alternative.

Storing and Reheating Lumpia

How to Store Leftovers

Let the lumpia cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Freezing Lumpia

Freeze uncooked lumpia on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be fried directly from frozen.

Reheating Tips

Reheat leftover lumpia in an oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion

Making Filipino lumpia at home is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and a bit of practice, you can create these irresistible spring rolls that will impress family and friends. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of the Philippines to your kitchen!