Introduction
If you’re looking for a unique and savoury appetizer that combines creamy cheese with a spicy kick, look no further than this egg roll wrapper goat cheese jalapeno recipe. The creamy texture of goat cheese paired with the bold heat of jalapenos creates a mouthwatering filling wrapped in a crispy, golden egg roll wrapper. Whether preparing for a party, a family dinner, or simply craving a tasty snack, these savoury egg rolls will impress. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make and perfect for anyone who loves a fusion of flavours in their meals. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible treats from scratch!
The Perfect Egg Roll Filling: Goat Cheese and Jalapenos
Why Goat Cheese Makes a Great Filling for Egg Rolls
Goat cheese is a standout ingredient that brings a unique flavour and texture to egg rolls, making it the perfect filling choice for this savoury snack. Here’s why goat cheese works so well in egg rolls and why you should consider using it for your next batch.
1. Creamy Texture and Richness
- One of the key reasons goat cheese is an excellent filling for egg rolls is its creamy texture. Unlike some cheeses that can become hard or grainy when cooked, goat cheese remains soft, smooth, and creamy. This makes it ideal for filling egg rolls, as it creates a velvety interior that complements the crispy, crunchy wrapper.
- When you bite into a fried egg roll, the rich creaminess of the goat cheese contrasts beautifully with the crispy, golden exterior, creating a perfect balance of textures. The cheese melts inside the wrapper, providing a luscious, satisfying bite.
2. Tart and Tangy Flavor
- Goat cheese has a distinct tartness that adds complexity and depth of flavour to the egg roll filling. Its tangy notes pair wonderfully with the heat of jalapenos, offering a contrast that isn’t too overpowering. This balance between the goat cheese’s sharpness and the peppers’ spiciness creates a harmonious flavour profile that excites the palate.
- Unlike mild cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, goat cheese’s bold tang helps cut through the richness of the fried wrapper, providing a well-rounded flavour that doesn’t get lost during frying. It makes each bite of the egg roll more flavorful and memorable.
3. Versatility in Flavor Pairings
- Goat cheese is highly versatile and pairs well with various ingredients. In the case of these egg rolls, it pairs perfectly with the heat of jalapenos, but it also complements other ingredients you might consider adding, such as fresh herbs, garlic, or even caramelized onions.
- Whether using fresh goat cheese or a more aged variety, you can adjust the flavour intensity to suit your preference. Fresh goat cheese offers a mild, creamy flavour, while aged goat cheese has a stronger, more assertive tanginess. This versatility makes it an adaptable ingredient that works well in many savoury dishes, especially with spicy or zesty components.
4. Healthier Alternative to Other Cheeses
- While goat cheese is still a dairy product, it’s often considered a healthier alternative to cow’s milk cheeses. It typically has fewer calories and less fat than other cheeses, making it a lighter option without compromising flavour. Additionally, goat cheese is easier to digest for some people, especially those with lactose sensitivity.
- This makes goat cheese an excellent choice if you’re looking for a slightly healthier twist on traditional egg rolls while still achieving a rich, satisfying taste.
5. Unique Flavor Profile That Stands Out
- Goat cheese has an unmistakable flavour. It’s not as common in traditional egg rolls, so it offers a unique twist on the classic recipe. The tangy and slightly earthy taste of goat cheese adds a gourmet touch to your egg rolls, making them stand out from the usual fillings like pork or chicken. To impress guests or elevate your egg roll game, goat cheese is the perfect ingredient to create something special.
6. Perfect for Pairing with Spicy Ingredients
- The creamy, tangy flavour of goat cheese works particularly well with spicy ingredients like jalapenos. The heat from the jalapenos is mellowed out by the richness of the goat cheese, creating a balanced and satisfying flavour experience. The creaminess of the cheese helps temper the spice, making the egg rolls approachable even for those who may not be huge fans of intense heat.
- You can also experiment with different spice levels by adjusting the number of jalapenos or adding other spicy ingredients like chilli flakes or hot sauce to the filling.
You’re adding a creamy, flavorful, and versatile component that elevates the overall dish by choosing goat cheese as your filling for egg rolls. The rich texture and tangy flavour of goat cheese pair beautifully with the heat of jalapenos, creating a delicious fusion of flavours that will leave everyone craving more. Whether you’re making these egg rolls for a casual snack or a special occasion, goat cheese ensures that each bite is a delightful experience.
Choosing the Right Jalapenos for Spice and Flavor
Jalapenos are the star of the show when adding heat and flavour to your goat cheese-filled egg rolls. However, not all jalapenos are created equal—some can be milder, while others pack a serious punch. Choosing the right jalapenos is essential for striking the perfect balance between spice and flavour in your egg rolls. Here’s a detailed guide to help you select the best jalapenos for your recipe.
1. Consider the Spice Level
- Jalapenos are known for their moderate heat, but the spice level can vary depending on factors like the age of the pepper, its origin, and how it’s grown. If you enjoy mild heat, look for firm jalapenos with smooth, glossy skin. Younger jalapenos tend to be milder, and their heat level is more manageable for those sensitive to spice.
- For a spicier kick, opt for fully ripened red jalapenos. These peppers tend to have a higher capsaicin content (the compound responsible for heat), resulting in a more intense spiciness. However, remember that the seeds and ribs of the jalapeno contain the most heat, so adjusting how much of these you include in your egg roll filling will give you more control over the spice level.
2. Look for Firm and Glossy Jalapenos
- When shopping for jalapenos, choose peppers that are firm to the touch with smooth, glossy skin. A dull appearance or wrinkling can indicate that the pepper is overripe or past its prime, which could affect both its flavour and texture in your egg rolls. Fresh, firm jalapenos have a crisp texture that will hold up well during cooking and contribute a pleasant crunch to the filling.
- A bright green colour indicates freshness, though red jalapenos can offer a slightly sweeter flavour if you prefer a less spicy option. If you’re after more heat, avoid selecting peppers with brown spots or blemishes, as these can indicate overripe fruit.
3. Milder or Hotter: Adjusting the Spice with Seeds and Ribs
- While the jalapeno contributes most of the heat, much of the intensity comes from the seeds and ribs, the white membrane inside the pepper. Remove the seeds and ribs before chopping the jalapenos for your egg roll filling if you want a milder flavour. This will drastically reduce the spiciness and allow the pepper’s natural sweetness and mild heat to shine through.
- On the other hand, if you prefer your egg rolls to pack a punch, keep the seeds and ribs intact. The more seeds and membranes you include, the hotter the jalapenos. You can also experiment with mixing in mild and spicy jalapenos to create a customized heat level for your filling.
4. Flavor Profile of Fresh vs. Pickled Jalapenos
- Fresh Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos provide a crisp, slightly grassy flavour with a clean, sharp heat that complements the creaminess of the goat cheese. The flavour is vibrant, and the heat can be adjusted depending on how much of the pepper’s internal parts you use. If you prefer a fresh, slightly fruity flavour with the full impact of heat, fresh jalapenos are the way to go.
- Pickled Jalapenos: If you want a tangy, more mellow heat, consider using pickled jalapenos in your egg rolls. The pickling process softens the heat and adds an extra layer of acidity and flavour to the filling. Pickled jalapenos can also lend a unique, zesty taste that pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and enhances the overall flavour profile of the egg rolls.
5. Size Matters: Small vs. Large Jalapenos
- The size of the jalapeno can also affect the flavour and heat level. Smaller jalapenos are spicier and more heat-concentrated, while larger peppers often have a milder flavour. If you’re making a large batch of egg rolls and want to keep the spice level consistent, you may want to choose medium-sized peppers. This provides a good balance of heat without overwhelming the dish.
- When working with smaller jalapenos, you might find that they pack a punch, so be mindful of how many you include in the filling. For a more controlled level of spice, use larger peppers, as they will give you a more subtle yet still flavorful heat.
6. Experiment with Varieties of Jalapenos
- Different varieties of jalapenos are available, each with slight variations in flavour and heat. Some commonly found varieties include:
- Serrano-Jalapeno Hybrid: These jalapenos are smaller but often have an added heat intensity, which is ideal for those who like a spicier egg roll.
- Jalapeno M: A milder variety of jalapeno, perfect for those who prefer a less spicy flavour but still want the characteristic flavour of the pepper.
- Fiesta Jalapenos: These tend to be sweeter and less hot, making them a good choice if you want to focus on the flavour rather than the heat.
By selecting the right jalapenos, you can tailor the spice and flavour of your egg rolls to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for mild jalapenos for a subtle kick or the extra heat of fully ripened peppers, jalapenos are a key ingredient that elevates the flavour profile of your goat cheese-filled egg rolls. Experimenting with fresh or pickled varieties and adjusting the seed-to-pepper ratio gives you the power to create the perfect balance of heat and flavour that will leave your taste buds craving more.
Additional Ingredients to Enhance Your Egg Roll Filling
While the combination of goat cheese and jalapenos already creates a flavorful and balanced egg roll filling, there are plenty of additional ingredients to elevate your dish’s taste and texture. Adding a few complementary components can enhance the flavour complexity, create new textural contrasts, and even introduce more nutrients into your egg rolls. Here’s a list of ingredients that pair perfectly with goat cheese and jalapenos for an even more delicious filling.
1. Garlic
- Garlic is a versatile and aromatic ingredient that enhances the overall flavour of your egg rolls. Its savoury, slightly spicy taste complements goat cheese’s tanginess and jalapenos’ heat. Adding minced or grated garlic to your filling adds richness and depth, making each bite more complex. Whether you sauté the garlic first to mellow its flavour or add it raw for a sharper, bolder taste, garlic can transform the filling into something even more mouthwatering.
2. Onions (Yellow, Red, or Green)
- Onions are another ingredient that can complement the goat cheese and jalapenos in your egg rolls. They add both sweetness and a mild sharpness, depending on the variety you choose. Red onions bring a mild sweetness and a pop of colour, while yellow is more robust and savoury. Green onions (scallions) can add a delicate, fresh flavour and a slight crunch to your filling.
- If you prefer a more caramelized, savoury filling, you can sauté the onions until they become golden and soft. This brings out their natural sweetness, which balances nicely with the jalapenos’ spice and the goat cheese’s creaminess.
3. Herbs and Spices
- Fresh herbs and spices can elevate your egg roll filling by adding aromatic layers and freshness. Some herbs and spices that pair wonderfully with goat cheese and jalapenos include:
- Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness and a slightly citrusy flavour that balances the richness of the goat cheese. Cilantro also pairs well with the heat of jalapenos, bringing a cooling effect.
- Basil: Offers a sweet, peppery note that complements the tanginess of the goat cheese and adds a layer of complexity.
- Cumin: A warm, earthy spice that can enhance the depth of your egg roll filling. Cumin adds a slight smokiness that works particularly well if other ingredients like beans or roasted vegetables are added.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a subtle smoky flavour that pairs beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and the spicy jalapenos, creating a smoky-sweet contrast.
- Chilli Powder: For those who like an extra kick, chilli powder can ramp up the spice level, adding depth and complexity without overpowering.
4. Beans (Black Beans or Refried Beans)
- Adding beans to your egg roll filling can enhance the flavour and provide extra texture and nutrition. Black beans are a great choice, as they add an earthy, creamy texture that complements the creaminess of the goat cheese. They also bring in a slight sweetness that balances the heat from the jalapenos.
- Conversely, refried beans can help bind the filling together, giving it a smooth, cohesive texture. They also add a rich, savoury flavour that elevates the egg roll experience. Beans are an excellent addition if you want to make your egg rolls more filling and satisfying.
5. Roasted Vegetables (Bell Peppers, Zucchini, or Mushrooms)
- Roasting vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms before adding them to the egg roll filling gives them a deep, smoky flavour that enhances the overall taste. Bell peppers provide sweetness and crunch, while zucchini brings moisture and a mild, refreshing flavour. Mushrooms, especially varieties like cremini or shiitake, add an umami depth that pairs wonderfully with goat cheese.
- Roasting the vegetables before adding them ensures they maintain their shape and texture within the egg rolls, preventing them from releasing too much moisture while frying. Plus, the smoky flavour of roasted veggies complements the tang of goat cheese and balances out the heat from the jalapenos.
6. Corn (Fresh or Frozen)
- Corn can add sweetness and crunch to your egg roll filling, balancing the jalapenos’ spiciness and the goat cheese’s creaminess. Fresh or frozen corn kernels both work well and provide a burst of colour to your egg rolls. Corn’s natural sweetness is a subtle counterpoint to the heat, making it a perfect ingredient for those who enjoy a sweet-and-spicy flavour combination.
- Additionally, corn is a great way to add texture to your egg rolls, providing little pockets of crunch that complement the smoother texture of the cheese and vegetables.
7. Spinach or Kale
- Leafy greens like spinach or kale are an excellent way to add flavour and nutrients to your egg rolls. Spinach, when sautéed, has a mild, slightly earthy flavour that works well with goat cheese, adding a pop of colour and nutrition to the filling. Kale, on the other hand, has a more robust flavour and can be used to add a bit of bitterness to balance the richness of the cheese.
- Greens also help balance out the richness of the goat cheese and the heat of the jalapenos, making your egg rolls feel fresher and lighter. Plus, they contribute vitamins and minerals, adding a healthful element to your savoury snack.
8. Cream Cheese or Sour Cream (For Extra Creaminess)
- Add a little cream cheese or sour cream to the goat cheese if you want an even creamier filling. This will create a smoother, richer texture and enhance the overall creaminess of the filling. While goat cheese is already creamy, adding cream or sour cream makes the filling even more luxurious and indulgent.
- The subtle tang of cream cheese or sour cream also adds an extra layer of flavour that complements the jalapenos and balances the heat with a cooling element.
9. Lime Zest or Lime Juice
- A squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of lime zest can brighten up the egg roll filling and add a refreshing citrusy kick that complements the heat from the jalapenos. Lime adds a burst of acidity that helps cut through the richness of the goat cheese, creating a more balanced and refreshing flavour profile.
10. Cheddar or Monterey Jack Cheese
- While goat cheese is the primary cheese in this recipe, adding a bit of cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can enhance the flavour and texture of the filling. These cheeses melt well and add a gooey, stringy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy goat cheese and the crunchy egg roll wrapper. They also bring a mild, savoury flavour that helps tie everything together.
You can create a more complex and satisfying dish by incorporating some of these additional ingredients into your egg roll filling. Whether you’re looking to add sweetness, savoury depth, or a bit of crunch, these ingredients will enhance the flavour and texture of your egg rolls, making them even more irresistible. Get creative and experiment with different combinations to find the perfect filling that suits your taste!
How to Make Savory Egg Rolls with Goat Cheese and Jalapenos
Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing the Filling
Creating the perfect filling for your egg rolls is the key to a flavorful snack, and with goat cheese and jalapenos, you’ll be crafting a delicious blend of creamy and spicy flavours. Follow these simple steps to prepare the filling that will elevate your egg rolls.
1. Prepare the Jalapenos
- Start by washing the jalapenos thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Cut off the stems and slice them in half lengthwise. If you prefer a milder heat, use a spoon to scrape the seeds and membranes. For extra spice, leave some seeds intact.
- Finely chop the jalapenos into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more evenly the filling will be distributed in each egg roll.
2. Soften the Goat Cheese
- If you’re using refrigerated goat cheese, take it out of the fridge for about 15-20 minutes before preparing the filling. This will soften it and make it easier to work with.
- Use a fork to break up the goat cheese into small crumbles, making mixing with the other ingredients easier. Its creamy texture will blend beautifully with the jalapenos.
3. Mix the Filling
- Combine the softened goat cheese with the chopped jalapenos in a medium-sized mixing bowl. Stir gently to combine the two ingredients. The goat cheese should coat the jalapenos, creating a creamy filling with a slight texture.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional flavourings you desire. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add freshness, while garlic powder or onion powder can add depth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- If you like a more tangy flavour, you can mix in a teaspoon of lime juice to brighten the filling and balance the richness of the goat cheese.
4. Optional: Add Extra Ingredients
- For an extra layer of flavour, consider mixing in a little shredded cheese (like Monterey Jack or cheddar) for a gooey, melty texture. Add a small handful of sautéed onions, corn, or bell peppers for sweetness and crunch.
- If you’re preparing a large batch, you might want to adjust the quantity of goat cheese or jalapenos to ensure the ratio fits your taste preferences.
5. Check the Consistency
- The filling should be thick enough to stay inside the egg roll wrapper without spilling out during frying. If it’s too runny, add more goat cheese or even a small amount of breadcrumbs to thicken it up.
- Adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream can create a smoother, more cohesive texture if the filling is too dry or crumbly.
With your filling ready, you’re one step closer to creating crispy, savoury egg rolls packed with creamy goat cheese and spicy jalapenos. Next, it’s time to wrap the filling and get frying!
How to Properly Roll Your Egg Rolls
Rolling your egg rolls properly ensures that the filling stays inside and doesn’t leak during frying, giving you a crispy, golden exterior and a perfectly sealed interior. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master rolling egg rolls with goat cheese and jalapeno filling.
1. Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers
- Start by laying your egg roll wrappers on a clean, flat surface. Cover them with a damp paper towel or cloth to prevent them from drying out while you work.
- Make sure the wrappers are square (most egg roll wrappers are) and face them in a diamond shape, with one corner pointing directly toward you. This positioning makes it easier to roll and ensures the seam is at the bottom when frying.
2. Add the Filling
- Place a generous spoonful of your prepared goat cheese and jalapeno mixture onto the centre of the wrapper near the bottom corner. Be mindful not to overfill the wrapper, as this could cause it to tear or not seal properly.
- For best results, create a neat mound in the centre, ensuring the filling is evenly distributed without spilling over the edges.
3. Start Rolling the Egg Roll
- Begin by folding the bottom corner of the egg roll wrapper over the filling. Gently tuck the filling in and roll it up tightly, being careful not to press too hard to avoid squeezing the filling out. The goal is to form a compact cylinder while keeping the filling inside.
- As you roll, fold the sides of the wrapper toward the centre. This creates a neat, sealed edge and helps prevent the filling from spilling out during frying.
4. Seal the Egg Roll
- You’ll need to seal the edges once the egg roll is almost fully rolled. To do this, lightly moisten the top corner of the wrapper with water (you can use your finger or a small brush). This helps the wrapper stick together and prevents it from unrolling.
- Press the moistened corner firmly onto the rest of the egg roll to ensure it stays closed. If you’re making a large batch, you can also use a mixture of cornstarch and water as a sealing paste for extra security.
5. Check the Roll for Security
- Before you fry the egg rolls, gently press on the ends to ensure they’re properly sealed. You don’t want air pockets or loose edges that could unravel while cooking.
- If the wrapper is not sealing well, apply more water and press the edges again. If the wrapper tears, you can use another wrapper to fix the issue or simply adjust your rolling technique for the next one.
6. Optional: Freezing for Later
- If you plan to make the egg rolls ahead of time or freeze them for later use, place the rolled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container. Freezing them before frying helps maintain their shape and texture when cooked later.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly rolled egg rolls, each securely sealed and ready to be fried. A tightly rolled egg roll will crisp up evenly and hold its shape while keeping the delicious goat cheese and jalapeno filling intact. Now that your egg rolls are ready, it’s time to fry them to golden perfection!
Frying the Egg Rolls to Perfection
Frying your egg rolls to a crispy, golden finish transforms your goat cheese and jalapeno rolls from good to absolutely delicious. The right frying technique ensures a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the creamy filling intact. Here’s how to fry your egg rolls to perfection:
1. Choose the Right Oil
- When frying egg rolls, the type of Oil you use is important to achieve that crispy, golden texture. Vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil are all great choices because they have a high smoke point and neutral flavour, allowing the egg rolls to fry evenly without overpowering the taste of the filling.
- Fill a deep frying pan or wok with enough Oil to submerge the egg rolls halfway. This allows for even cooking on both sides.
2. Heat the Oil to the Right Temperature
- Frying at the right temperature is essential to get crispy, evenly fried egg rolls. Heat the Oil over medium-high heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). You can test the Oil’s readiness by dropping a small piece of bread or an extra scrap of egg roll wrapper; it will be hot enough if it sizzles immediately.
- If the Oil is too hot, the egg rolls will burn on the outside before the filling is fully heated. If the Oil is too cool, the egg rolls absorb excess Oil and become greasy rather than crisp. A deep-frying thermometer can be useful to ensure accuracy.
3. Carefully Lower the Egg Rolls into the Oil
- Gently lower the rolled egg rolls into the hot Oil, one at a time. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to handle them carefully and prevent splashing. Don’t overcrowd the pan; too many egg rolls at once will lower the oil temperature and result in uneven frying.
- Fry the egg rolls in batches if necessary, giving them enough room to fry evenly and get crispy on all sides.
4. Fry Until Golden and Crispy
- Let the egg rolls cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the egg rolls are a deep golden-brown colour and the wrapper is crispy.
- Avoid turning them too early or too often, as this could cause the filling to leak out before the wrapper crisps up properly. Patience is key here!
5. Drain Excess Oil
- Once the egg rolls are golden and crispy, carefully remove them from the Oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This helps keep the egg rolls crispy and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- If you’re making a larger batch, consider setting up a wire rack over a baking sheet to keep the egg rolls elevated and allow air circulation, keeping them crispier for longer.
6. Check the Interior Temperature
- To ensure the filling is properly heated and the goat cheese is melted and creamy, you can carefully cut one egg roll in half after frying. If the filling is hot and gooey, you know they’re ready to serve. If not, you can return the egg rolls to the Oil for a quick additional fry, cooking until the interior reaches the right temperature.
7. Serve Immediately
- Egg rolls are best served immediately after frying while still crispy and hot. Pair them with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chilli sauce, ranch, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce. The hot, creamy filling with the crisp exterior makes these egg rolls irresistible.
Following these steps, you’ll fry your egg rolls to perfection, achieving a crispy, golden outside with a creamy and spicy filling that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether for a casual snack or a party appetizer, these egg rolls will stand out with their perfect texture and flavour.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these savoury egg rolls with goat cheese and jalapenos are incredibly easy to make and packed with bold, delicious flavours. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with a perfect balance of spice and richness. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer for a gathering, or a snack to enjoy with friends, these egg rolls are sure to impress.
Consider serving your egg rolls with a flavorful dipping sauce to take them to the next level. A tangy sour cream-based dip or a zesty salsa verde pairs wonderfully with the jalapenos’ heat and the goat cheese’s creaminess. Try a smoky chipotle flavour or a sweet and spicy chilli sauce for an extra flavour. Hillihese sauces complement the egg rolls and elevate the overall taste experience.
For a refreshing drink pairing, opt for chilled iced tea or citrus-infused sparkling water to balance the heat and provide a light, cooling contrast to the rich, savoury flavours of the egg rolls. If you prefer a more adventurous option, a light and crisp beer or a margarita with a hint of lime will perfectly complement the spicy and creamy filling.