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These Air Fryer Lumpia come out golden and crispy in just 10 minutes. Packed with juicy pork, cabbage, and a touch of fish sauce, they’re crunchy, savory, and perfect with your favorite chili sauce. Quick, easy, and freezer-friendly too!
Crispy Lumpiang Shanghai In The Air Fryer
If you love lumpiang Shanghai but dislike the hassle of deep frying, this air fryer version will change your perspective. These crispy Filipino spring rolls are filled with juicy pork, cabbage, and scallions, then air-fried to golden perfection—no oil splatter and no standing over the stove. Just 10 minutes in the air fryer and you’re ready to enjoy.
I began making lumpia this way on weeknights when I wanted to avoid cleaning up a greasy mess. After one batch in the air fryer, I was hooked. The filling is simple, the wrappers become incredibly crisp with just a light oil coating, and they’re freezer-friendly too. I enjoy them hot with chili sauce, but they’re also delightful straight from the basket. (If you’re in the mood for the traditional version, I have a deep-fried Lumpia recipe as well.) Be sure to check out my video guide and tips below to achieve that perfect crunch every time.
Add These to Your Appetizer Lineup
Craving crispy lumpiang Shanghai but short on time? This air fryer version delivers that golden crunch with minimal oil.
- Golden and crispy. Enjoy that addictive crunch without the need to stand over hot oil. Just 10 minutes in the air fryer and you’re set.
- Juicy, savory filling. Ground pork, cabbage, and scallions combine with a splash of soy and fish sauce for a simple yet flavorful mix.
- Fast and easy to prepare. Everything mixes in one bowl, and rolling gets easier with practice. Ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cravings.
- Freezer-friendly. Roll a large batch, freeze, and air fry straight from frozen—no defrosting required, maximizing convenience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground pork – Aim for 80% meat and 20% fat.
- Cabbage
- Fish sauce – I recommend high-quality brands like Red Boat, Three Crabs, or Magic Chef.
- Spring roll pastry – Also known as spring roll wrappers or skin, available in the frozen section of supermarkets.
Check out the recipe card below for all the details.
Pro Tip #1: Why I Use 80/20 Ground Pork
Using ground pork that’s about 80% meat and 20% fat ensures the filling remains juicy and flavorful—too lean and it can turn out dry.
Pro Tip #2: Thinly Shredded Cabbage
Cabbage adds crunch and sweetness, but be sure to shred it thinly—it cooks faster and integrates seamlessly into the filling. No one wants a chunky, undercooked bite.
Pro Tip #3: Soy Sauce + Fish Sauce = Big Flavor
Soy sauce adds saltiness and depth, while a splash of fish sauce brings in a ton of umami without a fishy taste.
How To Make Lumpia In An Air Fryer
Add the ground pork, cabbage, scallions, soy sauce, fish sauce, and a bit of black pepper to a bowl. Mixing with your hands is the easiest way to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Spoon about 2 teaspoons of filling near the bottom edge of the wrapper. Roll it up tightly, keeping everything snug, and seal the edge with a bit of cornstarch mixture or egg wash to prevent unraveling during cooking.
Pro Tip: Beaten egg is the best option for sealing the edges, but if you’re out, a quick cornstarch mix (3 tablespoons water + 1 teaspoon cornstarch) works just fine.
Lightly brush some oil on the bottom of your air fryer basket to prevent sticking. Arrange the lumpia in a single layer—no overlapping—and brush the tops with oil as well. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 10 minutes, until they are golden, crispy, and perfectly crunchy.
Serve them hot and crispy with your favorite chili sauce or banana ketchup—such a delicious combination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ground chicken works, but ensure it has some fat—like from dark meat—otherwise the filling may turn out dry. Turkey is usually too lean and can also end up dry, especially in the air fryer.
Yes. After rolling them, lay the lumpia in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They will keep for up to 2 months and cook beautifully straight from frozen.
No need to thaw. Brush or spray the frozen lumpia with oil and air fry at 190°C (375°F) for about 12–14 minutes.
Let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay good for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer to restore their crispiness.
Reheat them in the air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 4 minutes until they crisp up again. No need to brush with more oil unless they look dry.
This recipe contains 100 calories per lumpia.
What To Serve With This Recipe
For a simple and wholesome Filipino weeknight dinner, I recommend pairing these lumpia with:
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