Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Spring Rolls

Crispy Purple Sweet Potato Spring Rolls are a festive treat traditionally enjoyed in China during Li Chun, the beginning of spring, to wish for good health in the new season. These spring rolls come in both savory and sweet varieties—this version features creamy Okinawan purple sweet potatoes and is pan-fried until golden and crispy. It’s an easy and meaningful dish to make. Let’s get started!

Recipe

Serving: 12
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:
4 medium Okinawan purple sweet potatoes, or other types
3 tablespoons sugar
1/2 cup milk, or water
12 spring roll wrappers
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Okinawan purple sweet potatoes:

• Peel the purple sweet potatoes and slice into rings.
• In a steamer over high heat, bring water to a boil. Place the sweet potatoes inside, cover, and steam for 15 minutes or until fully cooked.
• Remove and let cool slightly before handling.

2. Make the filling:

• In a food processor, add the sweet potatoes, sugar (adjust to taste), and milk. Blend until smooth and creamy. (Alternatively, mash by hand in a mixing bowl.)
• Transfer the filling into a pastry bag or Ziploc bag fitted in a glass. Seal and snip off the tip.

3. Assemble the spring rolls:

• Lay a spring roll wrapper flat with a corner facing you, forming a diamond shape.
• Pipe the filling horizontally across the center.
• Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll tightly upward, brushing the top edge with egg to seal. Repeat with the rest.

4. Pan-fry:

• In a pan over medium-high heat, add the oil. Place in the spring rolls and pan-fry until golden brown and crispy, about 4 minutes total.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & notes

• Feel free to use other varieties of sweet potatoes based on availability.
• Make sure the filling is cool before wrapping to avoid tearing the wrappers.
• Serve with a drizzle of condensed milk or honey for an extra sweet treat.
• In Chinese culture, foods often carry symbolic meaning. Spring rolls are eaten in hopes of prosperity and good health. And of course, blessings come with good karma—so let’s be kind and thoughtful to one another. Wishing everyone health and happiness with each bite of today’s delicious rolls!