Lumpia, the Filipino version of spring rolls, is a crispy, golden-brown, and deliciously savory dish that holds a special place in Filipino cuisine. These deep-fried or fresh rolls are filled with seasoned meat, seafood, or vegetables, wrapped in a thin wrapper, and either fried to crispy perfection or served fresh with a sweet or tangy dipping sauce.

Lumpia is a staple in Filipino celebrations, from birthday parties and family gatherings to festive holidays. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, lumpia is loved for its crunchy texture and flavorful filling.

In this guide, we will explore:

• The history and cultural significance of Lumpia.
• Types of Lumpia (Fried and Fresh Variations).
• Step-by-step recipes for classic Lumpia Shanghai and Fresh Lumpia.
• Tips for achieving the perfect crispy lumpia.
• Best dipping sauces and side dishes for Lumpia.

The History and Significance of Lumpia

• Lumpia has Chinese origins, influenced by spring rolls (chun juan, 春卷) that arrived in the Philippines through early Chinese traders and migrants.
• Over time, Filipinos adapted the dish, using local ingredients and flavors to create different lumpia variations.
• Lumpia is a must-have dish for fiestas, family reunions, and celebrations, symbolizing prosperity and sharing.

📌 Fun Fact: Filipino families often prepare hundreds of lumpia at once, as they are crowd favorites that disappear quickly at parties!

Types of Lumpia: Fried and Fresh Varieties

1. Lumpia Shanghai (Crispy Filipino Spring Rolls) 🥢

• Small, bite-sized rolls filled with ground pork, shrimp, or chicken.
• Deep-fried until golden brown and served with sweet chili sauce.
• The most popular type of Lumpia found in Filipino households and restaurants.

2. Fresh Lumpia (Lumpiang Sariwa) 🥬

• A soft, unfried version filled with fresh vegetables, shrimp, and tofu.
• Wrapped in a thin crepe-like wrapper and topped with a sweet peanut sauce.
• A healthier alternative with a delicate, fresh flavor.

3. Lumpiang Gulay (Vegetable Lumpia) 🥦

• Filled with cabbage, carrots, green beans, tofu, and sometimes mung bean sprouts.
• Can be fried or served fresh.
• A great vegetarian option with a light, crunchy texture.

4. Lumpiang Ubod (Heart of Palm Lumpia) 🌿

• Made with ubod (heart of palm), shrimp, and vegetables.
• Often served fresh with garlic-peanut sauce.
• A specialty in Silay City, Philippines, known for its rich, creamy filling.

5. Turon (Sweet Banana Lumpia) 🍌

• A dessert version of lumpia filled with sliced bananas (saba), jackfruit, and brown sugar.
• Deep-fried until crispy and caramelized.
• Often enjoyed as a street food snack or dessert.

How to Make Classic Lumpia Shanghai (Fried Filipino Spring Rolls)

Ingredients (Makes 30-40 Rolls)

1 lb (500g) ground pork (or ground chicken/shrimp)
1 small carrot, finely grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
30-40 lumpia wrappers (spring roll wrappers)
Oil for frying
1 egg white (for sealing the wrappers)

📌 Pro Tip: Adding finely chopped shrimp to the filling gives lumpia a delicious seafood culinary twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

• In a bowl, mix ground pork, carrots, garlic, onion, egg, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper.
• Stir well until fully combined.
• Cover and let it marinate for 30 minutes for extra flavor.

📌 Pro Tip: Some Filipino families add water chestnuts or jicama for extra crunch.

Step 2: Wrap the Lumpia

• Lay a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface, with one corner pointing toward you.
• Place a tablespoon of filling near the bottom edge of the wrapper.
• Roll tightly halfway up, fold in the sides, and continue rolling.
• Brush egg white or water on the top edge to seal the roll.

📌 Why Roll Tightly? A loose roll absorbs more oil and won’t be crispy.

Step 3: Fry the Lumpia

• Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry lumpia in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown (about 3-5 minutes).
• Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

📌 Secret for Extra Crispiness: Use medium-high heat and double-fry the lumpia (fry once, let it cool, then fry again).

How to Make Fresh Lumpia (Lumpiang Sariwa) with Peanut Sauce

For the Wrapper (Homemade Crepe):

1 cup all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 cup milk or water
1 tbsp cornstarch
Pinch of salt

✔ Whisk ingredients into a thin batter and cook in a non-stick pan like a crepe.

📌 Pro Tip: Store-bought lumpia wrappers won’t work for fresh lumpia, so use homemade crepes.

For the Peanut Sauce:

½ cup peanuts, ground
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar
½ cup water
1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening)

✔ Simmer ingredients until sauce thickens.

📌 Why Peanut Sauce? It adds a sweet, nutty depth to fresh lumpia.

Best Dipping Sauces for Lumpia

• Sweet Chili Sauce – The classic Filipino dipping sauce for crispy lumpia.
• Spiced Vinegar (Sukang Sawsawan) – A tangy, garlic-infused vinegar dip.
• Garlic Peanut Sauce – Pairs well with fresh lumpia (Lumpiang Sariwa).
• Banana Ketchup – A sweet-sour ketchup loved in the Philippines.

📌 Best Combo? Try lumpia with sweet chili sauce and spiced vinegar for the ultimate flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Lumpia

• Use Fresh Wrappers – Dried-out wrappers crack easily. Cover them with a damp towel.
• Roll Tightly – Prevents oil absorption and keeps lumpia crispy longer.
• Use a Deep Frying Method – Ensures even cooking and golden color.
• Serve Immediately – Lumpia is best eaten fresh while still crispy.
• Freeze for Later – Uncooked lumpia can be frozen and fried straight from the freezer.

📌 How to Freeze? Arrange uncooked lumpia in a single layer, freeze, then transfer to a bag. No need to thaw before frying!

Conclusion: A Filipino Favorite for Every Occasion

Lumpia is a versatile, crispy, and flavorful dish that captures the essence of Filipino comfort food. Whether you prefer the savory crunch of Lumpia goltogel Shanghai or the fresh, delicate flavors of Lumpiang Sariwa, there’s a lumpia variety for everyone.

💬 What’s your favorite type of lumpia? Have you tried making it at home? Share your thoughts below! 🥢🔥