Crispy Shanghai Style Spring Rolls You’ll Love to Make

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

The delightful crunch of Shanghai-Style Spring Rolls has a way of transporting me straight to bustling street markets in China, where expert chefs showcase their craft with fervor. With the savory combination of lean pork and umami-packed shiitake mushrooms, each bite is a flavor explosion that satisfies any craving. These spring rolls are not just a traditional dish enjoyed during Chinese New Year; they ve become a household favorite for any occasion, thanks to their lighter, healthier twist.

Imagine the deep-fried crispiness paired with a succulent filling all without compromising on taste! Whether I m prepping them for a family gathering or craving a comforting snack, these spring rolls never fail to elicit smiles from my loved ones. Plus, with easy variations to match your dietary needs and preferences, you can put your personal spin on this classic recipe. Let s dive into this crowd-pleaser that s sure to elevate your cooking game!

Why are Shanghai Style Spring Rolls a must-make?

Crunchy, Crispy Delight: The golden brown exterior adds a satisfying crunch that you just can t resist.
Flavor-Packed Filling: Lean pork and shiitake mushrooms create a savory harmony, making every bite a delight.
Versatile Options: Easily substitute ingredients for different tastes, like chicken or tofu, allowing endless creativity.
Healthier Twist: These spring rolls are lighter than typical fried snacks, perfect for guilt-free indulgence!
Quick Preparation: Assembling and frying take minimal time, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings or snacks.
Bring excitement to your kitchen and impress friends and family with these irresistible Shanghai Style Spring Rolls!

Shanghai Style Spring Rolls Ingredients

For the Filling
Lean Pork Provides a rich flavor base; swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Salt Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste preferences.
Sesame Oil Adds nuttiness and fragrance; can use light olive oil as a substitute.
Shaoxing Wine Essential for authentic flavor; replace with dry sherry if necessary.
Cornstarch Used for marinade and thickening; arrowroot powder works as an alternative.
White Pepper Adds warmth and depth; black pepper is a suitable temporary substitute.
Napa Cabbage Contributes a crunchy texture; green cabbage can be a viable alternative.
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms Infuses the filling with rich umami; use fresh mushrooms for a milder taste.
Oil Required for frying; use neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil.
Soy Sauce Introduces saltiness and depth; tamari is perfect for a gluten-free option.
Spring Roll Wrappers Essential for assembly; popular brands can be easily found in Asian grocery stores.

How to Make Shanghai Style Spring Rolls

1. Marinate the Pork: In a mixing bowl, combine the lean pork with marinating ingredients. Allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes to soak in all the flavors.

2. Prepare the Filling: Heat a wok with oil over medium heat. Add the marinated pork and brown it, then toss in the sliced shiitake mushrooms. Cook until fragrant before adding the shredded napa cabbage. Season the mix with salt, white pepper, shaoxing wine, and soy sauce, cooking until the cabbage wilts, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Thicken Mixture: Stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the filling. Mix well and cook until it gets a nice, cohesive texture, then finish by adding sesame oil. Set this flavorful mixture aside to cool completely.

4. Assemble Spring Rolls: Take a spring roll wrapper and place about 1.5 tablespoons of the filling near the bottom edge. Roll tightly, folding in the sides to seal them securely.

5. Fry the Rolls: In a shallow pan, heat enough oil for frying. Once hot, gently place the spring rolls in the pan and fry until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and serve while hot.

Optional: Serve these delicious spring rolls with a side of sweet chili sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Shanghai Style Spring Rolls

• Fry Immediately: Fry the spring rolls right after assembly to maintain their crispy texture and avoid sogginess.
• Cool Your Filling: Ensure the filling cools completely before wrapping to prevent the wrappers from becoming damp and tearing.
• Test Oil Temperature: Always check the oil s readiness by dipping a bamboo chopstick; bubbles around it indicate it s hot enough for frying your spring rolls.
• Storage Solutions: For make-ahead convenience, assemble spring rolls, freeze them on a tray, and transfer to a bag for later frying no need to thaw!
• Variations Galore: Feel free to switch the ground pork for chicken, tofu, or any ground meat of your choice; customize the filling to suit your personal taste.
• Ingredient Quality: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially dried shiitake mushrooms, as they significantly enhance the umami flavor in your Shanghai Style Spring Rolls.

Make Ahead Options

These Shanghai Style Spring Rolls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the spring rolls up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to prevent drying. Alternatively, freeze the assembled rolls on a tray until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can fry them directly from frozen no need to thaw when you re ready to serve. For the best quality, make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying, and enjoy the same crispy texture and flavorful filling anytime. Just like fresh from the kitchen, they will be just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Shanghai Style Spring Rolls

Fridge: Store cooked spring rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain crispiness. Reheat in an oven for the best texture.

Freezer: Assemble raw Shanghai Style Spring Rolls, place them on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Fry directly from frozen without thawing.

Reheating: Reheat baked spring rolls in a preheated oven at 375 °F (190 °C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving spring rolls at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.

Shanghai Style Spring Rolls Variations

Feel free to let your creativity soar and customize these delightful spring rolls to match your unique taste!

• Chicken Swap: Use ground chicken instead of pork for a lighter flavor that pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.

• Veggie Delight: Replace meat entirely with a medley of your favorite vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and bean sprouts for a plant-based twist.

• Tofu Option: Crumbled firm tofu offers a delicious vegetarian alternative. Season liberally to infuse flavor into the filling.

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili oil or crushed red pepper to the filling for a delightful heat that elevates each bite.

• Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions into the mixture for a refreshing burst of flavor.

• Baked Variants: For a healthier option, brush the assembled spring rolls with oil and bake at 400 °F (200 °C) until golden brown for a crispy treat without deep frying.

• Sweet Variations: Consider using sweet potato or a hint of hoisin sauce in the filling for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory elements.

• Flavorful Dipping Sauces: Serve with homemade spicy peanut sauce or tangy soy dipping sauce for an extra flavor explosion that enhances the whole experience.

What to Serve with Shanghai Style Spring Rolls?

Creating a delightful meal around these crispy delights transforms your dining experience into a celebration of flavors and textures.

• Sweet Chili Sauce: This tangy and sweet dip enhances the savory filling, bringing a burst of complementary flavor with each bite.

• Soy Dipping Sauce: A simple mixture of soy sauce and a hint of rice vinegar offers a classic, umami-rich contrast that s perfect for dunking.

• Coconut Rice: This creamy rice dish provides a subtle sweetness that balances the salty crunch of the spring rolls. It s a delicious side that adds a tropical touch.

• Asian Slaw: A vibrant medley of cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness and crunch, complementing the rich filling of the spring rolls. It s a light and refreshing choice!

• Hot Green Tea: The soothing warmth of green tea enhances the meal experience, cleansing the palate and preparing your senses for each flavorful bite.

• Mango Salad: A sweet and zesty mango salad with a hint of lime elevates the meal, bringing bright flavors that beautifully contrast the savory rolls.

• Fruit Platter: Finish the meal with a colorful platter of fresh fruits such as oranges and strawberries; their natural sweetness provides a refreshing end to the meal.

Each of these pairings enriches the overall experience, ensuring your Shanghai Style Spring Rolls are the star of the show!

Shanghai Style Spring Rolls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my spring rolls?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose fresh lean pork without discoloration and avoid any with dark spots. When it comes to mushrooms, look for ones that are firm and have a slight shine. Aim for cabbage that feels crisp and has vibrant leaves. Trust me, using high-quality ingredients elevates your spring rolls to the next level!

What is the best way to store leftover spring rolls?
Very! Place cooked spring rolls in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can last for up to 3 days. If you want to reheat them, I recommend using an oven rather than a microwave to maintain their delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze uncooked spring rolls and how do I do it?
Absolutely! Assemble your Shanghai Style Spring Rolls, but don t fry them yet. Place them in a single layer on a tray lined with parchment paper to freeze individually for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy, fry them straight from frozen no need to thaw!

What can I do if my spring roll wrappers break during assembly?
Don t worry; it happens! If your wrappers are tearing, they may be too dry. Try dipping them briefly in warm water to soften them before use. Additionally, ensure that your filling has cooled down completely; this prevents the wrappers from getting soggy and tearing during assembly.

Are Shanghai Style Spring Rolls safe for people with allergies?
For those with allergies, check the labels on your ingredients! Soy sauce contains gluten; however, you can easily substitute it with tamari for a gluten-free option. If you re making these for someone with a shellfish allergy or other dietary restrictions, always reveal the ingredients being used to avoid any unwanted reactions.

How long can I keep my spring rolls at room temperature?
It s best to avoid leaving spring rolls at room temperature for more than 2 hours, as this can lead to food quality issues. If you re serving them for a party, have a warm serving platter ready to keep them toasty for your guests!