Southwestern Egg Roll Bake

If you’ve ever savored the bold flavors of a Southwestern fiesta, you’re likely aware of how well they can translate into comforting dishes. The Southwestern Egg Roll Bake stands out not only for its taste but also for its practicality in meal planning. Imagine combining black beans, chicken, and spices into a crispy, baked delight that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. What makes this dish even more appealing is its adaptability for various occasions, but there’s more to explore about its origins and nuances that might surprise you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for Southwestern Egg Roll Bake because it combines versatility, flavor, and convenience all in one delicious bite.

You can prepare these egg rolls using various cooking methods, like baking or air frying, making them perfect for any occasion. The simple preparation involves mixing your favorite filling ingredients and wrapping them in egg roll wrappers. Additionally, each egg roll contains approximately 134 calories per serving, allowing you to enjoy them guilt-free.

Plus, they’re freezer-friendly, so you can make them ahead of time for parties or quick meals. You can customize the fillings to suit your taste, whether you prefer chicken, beans, or different cheeses.

Each bite offers a crispy exterior and savory filling, ensuring they’ll be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the ease and flavor of this delightful dish!

History

Although the precise origins of the egg roll are somewhat murky, it’s widely believed to have roots in Southern China, particularly within Cantonese cuisine.

The modern American egg roll likely emerged in New York City during the early 1930s, thanks to chefs like Lung Fong and Henry Low. In fact, a 1917 Chinese-American cookbook featured a recipe called “Dan Gun,” which used egg to wrap meat and vegetables.

Notably, the name “egg roll” may come from a dish that included a layer of fried egg. Traditional egg rolls have undergone numerous adaptations over time, leading to various styles, like southwestern and Detroit-style versions, showcasing a blend of culinary influences and local tastes that reflect its evolving nature.

Recipe

Southwestern Egg Roll Bake Recipe

Get ready to indulge in a delicious and hearty dish that combines the vibrant flavors of the Southwest with the crispy goodness of egg rolls. This Southwestern Egg Roll Bake is a perfect option for a family dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With a filling made from black beans, chicken, cheese, and an array of spices, each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, the ease of baking instead of frying makes this recipe a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. Making these egg rolls is simple and fun! You’ll start by preparing a savory filling that can be customized to your preferences.

Once your filling is ready, you’ll assemble and bake the egg rolls until they achieve a golden-brown color and crispy texture. Serve them warm with your favorite dips for a delightful treat that everyone will love. Leftover filling can also be served with chips or in taco shells, providing an additional way to enjoy this flavorful dish.

Ingredients:
– Black beans, rinsed and drained
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack and/or Mexican cheese blend)
– Cooked chicken breast
– Finely chopped bell peppers
– Chili powder
– Cumin
– Salt
– Pepper
– Cayenne pepper
– 24 egg roll wrappers
– Olive oil or cooking spray
– Salsa, sour cream/Greek yogurt, or guacamole (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Prepare baking sheets by spraying them with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. In a large bowl, combine the black beans, shredded cheese, cooked chicken, chopped bell peppers, and the spice mix made from chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated with spices.

3. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface. Place about 3-4 tablespoons (or ¼ cup) of the filling in the center of the wrapper.

4. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll it tightly. Use a light dab of water on the edges of the remaining corner to seal the egg roll.

5. Place the sealed egg rolls seam side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil or use cooking spray for a crispy finish.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, turning the egg rolls halfway through baking to guarantee even browning. Bake until they’re golden brown and the edges are crispy.

7. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as salsa, sour cream, Greek yogurt, or guacamole.

For extra tips, be sure to handle the egg roll wrappers gently to prevent breakage during assembly. If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the assembled egg rolls before baking.

Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!

Adjust the spice levels in the filling to suit your taste and feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or additional vegetables for a personalized twist on this delightful dish.

Final Thoughts

Baking Southwestern egg rolls not only makes for a delicious meal but also offers a healthier alternative to frying. It markedly reduces the amount of oil used, making it a lighter choice. You’ll find that baking is easier too; you can prepare larger quantities without losing quality. To guarantee crispiness, bake them at 425°F (220°C) in a single layer and flip them halfway through. This method keeps the calorie count lower while still providing a good source of protein and fiber, as these rolls contain 35% Daily Value of protein. Plus, these egg rolls are versatile; you can customize ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you serve them as a party appetizer or a side dish, baking makes it simple and satisfying.

Enjoy your healthy creation!

FAQ

What should you know before making Southwestern egg rolls? First, grab egg roll wrappers from the refrigerated section near international foods.

To prepare, mix your filling ingredients, like shredded chicken, black beans, cheese, and peppers, in a medium bowl. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat, place 3-4 tablespoons of filling in the center, fold the sides over, and roll it up tightly. These egg rolls can be made in advance and frozen for convenient make-ahead meals.

Brush the tops with olive oil before baking at 425°F for 15 minutes until golden brown. You can also air fry them for a healthier option.

Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Feel free to customize fillings, and remember, these egg rolls make great appetizers or main dishes for gatherings!