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Crispy Tuna Shanghai Roll Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

This Tuna Shanghai recipe is a delightful Filipino snack featuring crispy lumpia wrappers packed with a savory tuna and vegetable filling. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish accompaniment, these golden fried rolls are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of tuna, carrots, onions, and spices wrapped in thin lumpia wrappers makes for a crispy and satisfying bite every time.

Ingredients

Filling Ingredients

  • 1 can tuna flakes in oil, drained
  • 1 medium carrot, finely grated
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp spring onions, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Additional Ingredients

  • Lumpia wrappers
  • Oil, for frying

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna flakes, finely grated carrot, chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped spring onions, egg, and all-purpose flour. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until they are fully incorporated and form a consistent filling.
  2. Wrap the Shanghai: Separate the lumpia wrappers carefully to prevent tearing. Place about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared filling near one edge of each wrapper. Roll the wrapper tightly around the filling, then fold the sides inward to seal. Use a little water to moisten the edges to secure the roll. Repeat the process for all the filling. Keep the wrappers covered with a damp cloth or plastic wrap while working to prevent them from drying out.
  3. Fry Until Golden: Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the lumpia rolls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for about 4 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even golden crispiness on all sides. The lumpia should be cooked through and crispy on the outside.
  4. Serve & Enjoy: Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Tuna Shanghai and drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve hot accompanied by sweet chili sauce or ketchup. These are perfect as an ulam (meal side), snack, or appetizer for gatherings.

Notes

  • For a cheesy variation, add shredded cheese to the tuna filling before wrapping.
  • For an extra crunchy texture, try double frying the Lumpia: fry once until light golden, remove and rest briefly, then fry again until deep golden and very crispy.
  • You can freeze the wrapped, uncooked Tuna Shanghai for later frying. Freeze individually on a tray before storing them in airtight bags.
  • Keep lumpia wrappers covered while working to avoid drying and cracking.
  • Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.