Golden, crispy, and packed with savory flavor, Filipino lumpia is one of the most loved appetizers in Filipino cuisine. These crunchy spring rolls are filled with seasoned pork, shrimp, and finely chopped vegetables wrapped in ultra-thin lumpia wrappers and fried until perfectly crisp. Lumpia is commonly served at family gatherings, celebrations, and holidays because they are easy to share and incredibly addictive. Traditional Filipino lumpia is known for its light, flaky texture and flavorful filling that pairs beautifully with sweet chili sauce or garlic vinegar dip.
What Is Filipino Lumpia?
Lumpia is a Filipino-style spring roll made with thin wrappers filled with meat, seafood, and vegetables. The dish has roots connected to Chinese spring rolls but has evolved into a staple of Filipino cuisine over generations. Filipino lumpia wrappers are thinner and crispier than regular egg roll wrappers, giving lumpia its signature crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Filipino Lumpia Recipe
- Crispy and golden on the outside
- Savory pork and shrimp filling with rich flavor
- Perfect party appetizer or snack
- Easy to freeze and cook later
- Delicious with sweet chili dipping sauce
- Restaurant-style Filipino lumpia at home
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Ingredients
For the Lumpia Filling
- 1 pound ground pork
- ½ pound shrimp, finely chopped
- 1 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped
- ½ cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- ½ cup green onions, sliced thin
- ⅓ cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
For Wrapping
- 1 package lumpia wrappers
- Small bowl of water for sealing
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or canola oil
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Sweet chili sauce
- Garlic vinegar sauce
- Sweet and sour sauce
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Step-by-Step How to Make Filipino Lumpia
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, water chestnuts, mushrooms, green onions, onion, garlic, soy sauce, salt, sugar, pepper, and beaten eggs. Mix everything thoroughly until evenly combined. The filling should be moist but not watery.
Step 2: Separate the Lumpia Wrappers
Carefully peel apart the lumpia wrappers and place them under a slightly damp towel to prevent drying out. Lumpia wrappers are very thin, so handle them gently.
Step 3: Fill the Wrappers
Lay one wrapper on a flat surface like a diamond shape. Add about 2 tablespoons of filling near one corner. Spread it into a thin log shape for even cooking.
Step 4: Roll the Lumpia
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck tightly, fold in the sides, and continue rolling until sealed. Dab a little water on the edge to secure the wrapper.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a deep skillet or frying pan, heat about 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Fry Until Crispy
Carefully place lumpia into the hot oil without overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Transfer cooked lumpia to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with sweet chili sauce or garlic vinegar dip.
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Tips for the Best Lumpia
- Roll the wrappers tightly to prevent oil from getting inside
- Keep wrappers covered so they do not dry out
- Fry in batches for even crispiness
- Freeze uncooked lumpia for quick meals later
- Use fresh garlic and onions for deeper flavor
- Do not overfill the wrappers
What to Serve with Lumpia
Filipino lumpia pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic fried rice
- Egg drop soup
- Pancit noodles
- Sweet chili sauce
- Vinegar dipping sauce
- Fresh cucumber salad
Also Read: Peach Crisp Recipe
Storage and Freezing
Refrigerator
Store leftover cooked lumpia in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer
Arrange uncooked lumpia in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F until crispy again.
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Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients used.
