Plantain Egg Rolls: A Sweet and Savory Turon Twist Recipe

Plantain egg rolls, often called turon, are a delightful Filipino snack or dessert. Traditionally made with saba bananas, these sweet treats are wrapped in spring roll wrappers and deep-fried to golden perfection. This recipe elevates the classic by using ripe plantains, adding a unique and more intense sweetness that perfectly complements the crispy wrapper. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience – a dance of textures and flavors that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure as we explore the delicious world of plantain egg rolls!

This guide will walk you through creating this irresistible treat, from selecting the perfect plantains to mastering the art of wrapping and frying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, you’ll find the instructions easy to follow and the results incredibly rewarding.

Why Plantains?

Plantains are a staple in many tropical regions and offer a distinct flavor profile compared to bananas. When ripe, they become incredibly sweet and develop a soft, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked. This makes them an excellent substitute for saba bananas in turon, offering a richer and more complex sweetness.

Here are some reasons why plantains shine in this recipe:

* **Intense Sweetness:** Ripe plantains provide a more concentrated sweetness than bananas, reducing the need for added sugar.
* **Unique Flavor:** They possess a distinct flavor that complements the crispy wrapper and creates a more interesting taste experience.
* **Texture:** When cooked, ripe plantains become incredibly soft and tender, providing a delightful contrast to the crispy shell.
* **Availability:** Plantains are widely available in many grocery stores, making this recipe accessible to everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make approximately 12 plantain egg rolls:

* **3 large ripe plantains:** Look for plantains with mostly black skin and a slightly soft texture. The riper, the sweeter!
* **12 spring roll wrappers:** These thin wrappers are readily available in the refrigerated section of most Asian grocery stores.
* **1/4 cup brown sugar:** Adds a caramel-like sweetness and helps the plantains caramelize during frying. You can also use granulated sugar, but brown sugar provides a richer flavor.
* **1/4 cup jackfruit strips (langka), optional:** Jackfruit adds a chewy texture and a subtle tropical flavor. If you can’t find jackfruit, you can omit it.
* **1/4 cup cooking oil:** Vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil are all suitable for frying.
* **1 tablespoon water:** Used to seal the egg rolls.

Optional additions:

* **Cinnamon:** A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and complexity to the flavor.
* **Ube halaya (purple yam jam):** A tablespoon or two of ube halaya adds a vibrant color and a unique flavor twist. Add this *before* wrapping the egg roll.
* **Cheese:** A small strip of cheddar or mozzarella cheese can add a savory element.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have all our ingredients, let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of delicious plantain egg rolls:

**Step 1: Prepare the Plantains**

1. **Peel the plantains:** Cut off both ends of each plantain. Make a shallow slit lengthwise along the skin, being careful not to cut into the flesh. Use your fingers to peel away the skin.
2. **Slice the plantains:** Cut each plantain into thin, lengthwise slices, about ¼ inch thick. You should get about 4-5 slices per plantain.

**Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls**

1. **Lay out a spring roll wrapper:** Place a spring roll wrapper on a clean, flat surface. Position it so that one corner is pointing towards you (like a diamond).
2. **Arrange the plantain slices:** Place 2-3 slices of plantain horizontally in the center of the wrapper, leaving about an inch of space on the sides and bottom.
3. **Add the brown sugar and jackfruit (optional):** Sprinkle about a teaspoon of brown sugar over the plantain slices. If using jackfruit, place a few strips on top of the brown sugar.
4. **Fold the bottom corner:** Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the plantain filling, tucking it in tightly.
5. **Fold the sides:** Fold the left and right corners of the wrapper towards the center, over the filling.
6. **Roll up the egg roll:** Moisten the remaining top corner of the wrapper with a little water. Roll the egg roll tightly from the bottom to the top, sealing the edge with the moistened corner.
7. **Repeat:** Repeat steps 1-6 with the remaining plantains and wrappers until all the egg rolls are assembled.

**Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls**

1. **Heat the oil:** Pour the cooking oil into a deep skillet or pot. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of wrapper into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown quickly, the oil is ready.
2. **Fry in batches:** Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches of 3-4 at a time to maintain the oil temperature.
3. **Fry until golden brown:** Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. **Remove and drain:** Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

**Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!**

1. **Let cool slightly:** Allow the egg rolls to cool for a few minutes before serving. They will be extremely hot right out of the fryer.
2. **Serve warm:** Plantain egg rolls are best served warm, when the wrapper is still crispy and the plantain filling is soft and sweet.
3. **Optional toppings:** Drizzle with caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or condensed milk for an extra touch of sweetness. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is also a fantastic addition.

Tips for Success

* **Use ripe plantains:** The riper the plantains, the sweeter and softer the filling will be. Look for plantains with mostly black skin.
* **Don’t overfill the wrappers:** Overfilling the wrappers can cause them to tear during frying. Use a moderate amount of plantain filling.
* **Seal the wrappers tightly:** Properly sealing the wrappers with water will prevent the filling from leaking out during frying.
* **Maintain the oil temperature:** Maintaining a consistent oil temperature is crucial for achieving crispy and evenly cooked egg rolls. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy egg rolls. Fry in batches to maintain the temperature.
* **Drain excess oil:** Draining the egg rolls on paper towels will remove excess oil and prevent them from becoming greasy.

Variations and Adaptations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own unique version of plantain egg rolls.

* **Chocolate Plantain Egg Rolls:** Add a square of dark chocolate or a spoonful of chocolate chips along with the plantain filling for a decadent treat.
* **Peanut Butter Plantain Egg Rolls:** Spread a thin layer of peanut butter over the plantain slices before wrapping for a nutty and savory twist.
* **Cheese Plantain Egg Rolls:** Add a strip of cheddar or mozzarella cheese along with the plantain for a cheesy and satisfying snack.
* **Ube Plantain Egg Rolls:** Incorporate ube halaya (purple yam jam) for a vibrant color and unique flavor.
* **Spiced Plantain Egg Rolls:** Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to the plantain filling for a warm and aromatic flavor.
* **Savory Plantain Egg Rolls:** Experiment with savory fillings like cooked ground pork, shredded chicken, or vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Plantain egg rolls can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or even as part of a larger meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **As a Snack:** Serve them warm with a dipping sauce of your choice, such as caramel sauce, chocolate sauce, or condensed milk.
* **As a Dessert:** Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
* **As Part of a Meal:** Serve them as a side dish with savory dishes like grilled chicken or pork for a sweet and savory contrast.
* **For Parties:** Plantain egg rolls are a crowd-pleasing treat that’s perfect for parties and gatherings. Make a large batch and serve them on a platter with various dipping sauces.

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerating Cooked Egg Rolls:** Cooked plantain egg rolls can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes until crispy.
* **Freezing Uncooked Egg Rolls:** Uncooked plantain egg rolls can be frozen for up to 1 month. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per egg roll)

* Calories: 150-200
* Fat: 5-8 grams
* Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
* Cholesterol: 0 mg
* Sodium: 20-40 mg
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
* Fiber: 1-2 grams
* Sugar: 10-15 grams
* Protein: 1-2 grams

*Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Conclusion

Plantain egg rolls are a delightful and versatile treat that’s sure to impress. With their sweet and savory flavor, crispy texture, and easy preparation, they’re a perfect addition to any menu. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy the sweet symphony of flavors and the satisfying crunch of homemade plantain egg rolls! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and toppings to create your own signature version. Happy cooking!

This dish is more than just a recipe; it’s a cultural experience. Turon, in its various forms, is a beloved snack in the Philippines, often sold by street vendors and enjoyed during celebrations. By making your own plantain egg rolls, you’re not just creating a delicious treat, you’re also connecting with a rich culinary tradition.

So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed! And be sure to share your creations with friends and family. They’ll thank you for it!