Reuben egg rolls? Yes, please! This delightful fusion of classic Reuben sandwich flavors and the crispy crunch of egg rolls is a game-changer. Forget greasy takeout – with your air fryer, you can achieve perfectly golden, crispy egg rolls filled with all the savory goodness of corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. This guide will walk you through creating these addictive appetizers, answering all your burning questions along the way.
What are Reuben Egg Rolls?
Reuben egg rolls are a delicious twist on the classic Reuben sandwich. Instead of the traditional bread, the savory filling – typically corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing – is wrapped in egg roll wrappers and then air fried to crispy perfection. This clever combination provides a fun, portable, and incredibly satisfying appetizer or light meal. The air fryer method ensures a significantly healthier and less greasy result compared to deep frying.
How to Make Reuben Egg Rolls in an Air Fryer?
Making Reuben egg rolls in an air fryer is surprisingly straightforward. Here's a general recipe guideline:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained well
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup Thousand Island dressing
- 1 package (about 24) egg roll wrappers
- Cooking spray
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, gently combine the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Don't overmix; you want to retain some texture.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with a corner pointing towards you. Place a spoonful of the Reuben filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Wrap the Egg Rolls: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the side corners. Roll up tightly, tucking in the edges to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the egg rolls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they're not overcrowded. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Cook: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model.
Tips for Success:
- Drain the sauerkraut well: Excess moisture can make the egg rolls soggy.
- Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust cooking time: Keep an eye on your egg rolls and adjust the cooking time as needed. They should be golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately: Reuben egg rolls are best enjoyed hot and fresh.
What dipping sauce goes well with Reuben egg rolls?
A classic Thousand Island dressing complements the Reuben flavors beautifully, but you can also experiment with other dipping sauces. Horseradish sauce, a spicy mustard, or even a creamy dill sauce can add another layer of flavor.
Can I make Reuben Egg Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This is a great way to save time on busy days. Just be sure to increase the air frying time slightly, as they may require a little longer to cook from a cold state.
Are Reuben Egg Rolls healthy?
Compared to deep-fried versions, air-fried Reuben egg rolls are a relatively healthier option. The air fryer uses significantly less oil, reducing the overall fat content. However, they are still a relatively high-calorie and sodium food due to the ingredients. Moderation is key.
How many calories are in a Reuben Egg Roll?
The calorie count varies depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used, but a single Reuben egg roll can range from 200-300 calories or more. It's best to calculate the calorie count based on your specific recipe and portion sizes.
What's the best way to reheat Reuben Egg Rolls?
For best results, reheat Reuben egg rolls in the air fryer at a lower temperature (around 325°F) for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven or microwave, but the texture may not be as crispy.
By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to creating unbelievably delicious and crispy Reuben egg rolls that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
