Quick Answer
Yes, gluten-free egg roll wrappers do exist! Many brands now offer egg roll wrappers made without wheat or gluten containing ingredients, providing a great option for those with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or who follow a gluten-free diet. Gluten-free wrappers can typically be found in the refrigerator or freezer sections of grocery stores, Asian markets, and online. They provide the same wrapper texture and functionality for rolling egg rolls, spring rolls, or other filled appetizers.
What are Egg Roll Wrappers?
Egg roll wrappers, also sometimes called spring roll wrappers, are thin, round wrappers used to wrap a variety of savory filled appetizers. Traditional egg roll wrappers contain wheat flour as a main ingredient. The wrappers are made from a dough that contains wheat flour, water, and sometimes egg. The dough is rolled very thin, cut into rounds, and packaged for use in egg rolls, spring rolls, or other filled appetizers. Egg roll wrappers provide the outer crispy, flaky layer encasing the savory filling. They are an essential component for making these classic appetizers.
Why Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers are Needed
For those who need to follow a gluten-free diet for medical reasons or by choice, having gluten-free alternatives for common foods like egg roll wrappers is very important. An estimated 1% of the global population has celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder that causes damage to the small intestine when gluten is ingested. The only treatment for celiac disease is strictly following a 100% gluten-free diet. There are also many more people estimated to have non-celiac gluten sensitivity or intolerance, which causes uncomfortable digestive symptoms when gluten is eaten. Additionally, the gluten-free diet has become a popular dietary choice for its potential health benefits. Gluten-free egg roll wrappers allow these groups to continue enjoying popular appetizers that are typically made with wheat-based wrappers.
Availability of Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers
The availability of gluten-free egg roll wrappers has expanded in recent years along with the overall growth in demand for gluten-free products. Gluten-free wrappers can now be found in the refrigerator or freezer sections of many mainstream grocery stores. Large chain stores like Walmart, Target, and Kroger have gluten-free egg roll wrapper options under their store brand names. Natural food chains such as Whole Foods and Sprouts also carry various brands of gluten-free egg roll wrappers. Additionally, Asian food markets are an excellent place to look for gluten-free wrappers from Asian brands. Shopping online is another great option, where a wide selection of brands can be found on sites like Amazon. Overall, gluten-free egg roll wrappers are now widely available and easy to find in most areas.
Types of Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers
There are a few different options when it comes to choosing a gluten-free egg roll wrapper:
Rice Paper Wrappers
Some brands of spring roll or egg roll wrappers are made using rice flour instead of wheat flour. Rice paper wrappers provide the same thin, pliable texture for rolling. Rice flour typically contains no gluten, so these wrappers are safe for gluten-free diets as long as no other gluten ingredients are added. Many Asian brands offer rice paper egg roll wrappers.
Tapioca Starch Based Wrappers
Other gluten-free wrappers are made using tapioca starch as the main ingredient instead of rice or wheat flour. Tapioca starch comes from the root of the cassava plant and is naturally gluten-free. Brands like Ener-G offer tapioca starch egg roll wrappers.
Wrappers with Other Gluten-Free Flours
Some brands make their gluten-free egg roll wrappers using flours like chickpea flour, sorghum flour, or cornstarch along with other binders like potato starch or xanthan gum. As long as no wheat flour is used, these can still provide a gluten-free option. Reading ingredient lists is important when choosing a brand.
Pre-Made Wrapped Egg Rolls
There are also some pre-made frozen egg rolls available which are already wrapped in a gluten-free wrapper. These can provide a quick and easy option, but check that a brand is certified gluten-free before purchasing.
Nutritional Profile of Gluten-Free Wrappers
Gluten-free egg roll wrappers are typically low in calories and fat. Since they mostly contain just the flour alternative and water, they have a fairly minimal nutritional profile on their own without fillings. For example, a rice flour or tapioca starch based wrapper may contain around 30 calories per sheet along with 1-2 grams of fat and carbohydrates each. Brands made with added eggs may be slightly higher in protein. The nutrition can vary slightly by brand depending on any other minor ingredients added. Overall, egg roll wrappers are mostly used as an edible vessel for fillings, so their nutrition is not a major consideration. Those who eat gluten-free diets can be assured that swapping to a gluten-free wrapper allows the appetizer to align with their dietary needs.
Cost Comparison to Wheat Wrappers
Gluten-free specialty products sometimes come with a price premium compared to conventional wheat-based versions. However, gluten-free egg roll wrappers are typically competitively priced with traditional egg roll wrappers. In stores, most brands of gluten-free egg roll wrappers cost between $2-$3 for a package of 10-20 wrappers. This is very comparable to the cost of standard egg roll wrappers, so going gluten-free does not have to break the bank in this case. Shopping at Asian markets that carry larger packages with more sheets per package can also help save money on gluten-free wrappers. Buying egg roll wrappers online in bulk quantities can provide even more cost savings. Overall, price should not be a barrier for choosing gluten-free egg roll wrappers.
Taste and Texture of Gluten-Free Wrappers
Fortunately, swapping to gluten-free egg roll wrappers does not compromise the taste or texture of the final appetizer. Gluten-free wrappers provide the same thin, crispy outside layer to contrast with the flavorful fillings. Most brands aim to mimic traditional wheat flour wrappers as closely as possible in terms of mouthfeel and structure. Of course, slight taste and texture differences may be noticed between brands depending on the main flour sources used. However, any variations are very subtle, and gluten-free wrappers can deliver the full experience and satisfaction of eating crispy egg rolls or spring rolls.
How to Cook with Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers
Cooking with gluten-free egg roll wrappers is simple – they can be used just like regular egg roll wrappers! Here are some tips for working with gluten-free wrappers:
– Place the wrappers on a clean, dry surface and cover unused ones with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
– Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides and continue tightly rolling into an egg roll shape.
– Wet the top corner edges with a bit of water before sealing the roll closed to help it stick together.
– Gluten-free wrappers can become more brittle or prone to cracking if they get too dry, so taking care not to let them dry out is important.
– Fry the egg rolls in oil at 350°F for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
– Gluten-free wrappers can also be used for spring rolls, fried wontons, potstickers, or any other appetizer with wrappers. Adjust filling and rolling methods as needed.
– Cover unused gluten-free wrappers tightly and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Allow to thaw in the fridge before using frozen wrappers.
With these tips, you can easily make all of your favorite gluten-free egg rolls, spring rolls, and more!
Popular Brands of Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers
Here are some of the top brands offering gluten-free egg roll wrappers to try:
Three Ladies Brand
Three Ladies makes gluten-free spring roll wrappers from brown rice flour. They can be found in many major grocery stores.
Ener-G Egg Roll Wrappers
These wrappers from Ener-G use tapioca starch and potato starch. They are vegan and nut-free too.
Good Tastes Brand
Good Tastes has gluten-free egg roll wrappers available in Original or Whole Grain Brown Rice flour versions made with fiber.
SanJ Asian Wrappers
SanJ is one of the largest gluten-free Asian food brands. They offer brown rice spring roll wrappers and yam flour egg roll wrappers.
Aroy-D Thai Rice Paper
Aroy-D makes traditional Thai rice paper wrappers for spring rolls using rice flour and water.
Gluten-Free Egg Roll Filling Ideas
The wrapper possibilities are endless with the variety of delicious fillings that can be used inside gluten-free egg rolls! Consider these tasty filling ideas:
– Shredded pork, cabbage, mushrooms, onions, and garlic with soy sauce
– Chicken, carrots, celery, bean sprouts, and ginger
– Curried chickpeas, potatoes, onions, and spinach
– Chili spiced beef or turkey with peppers and cheese
– BBQ pulled pork with coleslaw mix
– Spicy shrimp with avocado and cilantro
– Sweet potato, black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese
– Stir-fried tofu veggie blend with teriyaki sauce
– Mexican style fillings like fajita chicken or ground beef with peppers, beans, rice and seasoning
Be creative and customize your own signature filling combinations!
Gluten-Free Dipping Sauce Recommendations
Every egg roll needs a dipping sauce to complement the fillings! Whip up one of these gluten-free sauce options:
Sweet and Sour Sauce
A classic sweet, sour and tangy dipping sauce. Use sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and cornstarch to thicken.
Plum Sauce
For a sweet and sticky sauce, use puréed plums, rice vinegar, ginger, sesame oil, garlic, and chili sauce.
Peanut Sauce
Blend peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, chili paste, and water or coconut milk for a creamy peanut sauce.
Sriracha Mayo
Mix sriracha sauce into gluten-free mayo, adding a bit of lime juice and cilantro. Quick and easy!
Ponzu Sauce
Ponzu sauce features the tangy citrus flavors of ponzu mixed with gluten-free soy sauce, rice vinegar, and ginger.
Egg Roll Cooking and Serving Tips
Follow these tips for cooking and serving your gluten-free egg rolls perfectly:
– Ensure oil is at 350°F before frying using a deep fry or candy thermometer for best results. This helps wrappers get crispy instead of greasy.
– After frying, drain egg rolls on a paper towel lined plate or wire rack to remove excess grease.
– Baked egg rolls can also be a healthier cooking method. Arrange on a parchment lined baking sheet sprayed with oil and bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through.
– Serve egg rolls hot immediately after frying or baking for the freshest taste and texture.
– Arrange egg rolls on a decorative platter and serve with individual dishes of your desired dipping sauces on the side.
– Keep a close eye on frying egg rolls to avoid burning. Adjust heat as needed to maintain proper oil temperature.
With these helpful tips, your gluten-free egg rolls will turn out perfectly bite after bite!
Are There Any Drawbacks to Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers?
Gluten-free egg roll wrappers offer a great solution for those who need to avoid gluten, with few downsides compared to wheat-based wrappers. However, here are a couple things to keep in mind:
– Gluten-free wrappers may be more prone to tearing or cracking if allowed to dry out too much. Some added care is needed when handling.
– The availability may be less than traditional wrappers depending on where you shop, so you may need to visit specialty stores or shop online.
– Labeling practices are not always consistent or clear when it comes to allergens, so double checking ingredients is important for those with celiac disease.
– Pre-made filled egg rolls could have cross contamination, so homemade is safest for celiac needs.
– Cost may be slightly higher than wheat egg roll wrappers in some cases.
– Appearance and texture may not be identical to wheat versions, but differences are generally negligible.
Overall, these factors are quite minor, and most people will find gluten-free egg roll wrappers to work very well. The convenience and enjoyment they offer makes them worth seeking out!
Are Gluten-Free Egg Rolls Safe for Celiac Disease?
Those with celiac disease need to be especially diligent about only consuming certified gluten-free products to prevent illness and complications. Thankfully, there are validated gluten-free egg roll wrapper options available which are considered safe for the gluten-free diet. However, additional care should be taken:
– Thoroughly check ingredient lists since labeling laws allow for potential cross contact. Look for wrappers produced in dedicated gluten-free facilities.
– Verify any certification labels like the GFCO gluten-free symbol to ensure validated standards are followed by the brand.
– Stick to major gluten-free brands with transparent sourcing and manufacturing practices whenever possible.
– If preparing homemade egg rolls, be vigilant about cross contamination from shared cooking tools and surfaces. Consider separate cookware.
– When eating out, do not assume egg rolls on a menu are gluten-free. Inquire about ingredients and preparation. Most restaurants cannot guarantee safe gluten-free options.
Following a gluten-free diet for medical reasons like celiac disease can be challenging, but there are still ways to enjoy favorites like egg rolls. Just take some extra care in sourcing and preparing gluten-free wrappers to maximize safety.
Can You Make Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrappers from Scratch?
While store-bought wrappers provide the easiest solution, it is also possible to create your own homemade gluten-free egg roll wrappers if desired. Here is one recipe to try:
Gluten-Free Egg Roll Wrapper Recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup tapioca flour
– 1⁄2 cup water
– 1⁄2 teaspoon xanthan gum
– 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the tapioca flour, xanthan gum, and salt.
2. Add the water and stir to form a thick, sticky dough ball. If too dry, add more water 1 tablespoon at a time.
3. On a surface generously dusted with tapioca flour, roll the dough into a rectangle shape roughly 1/8 inch thick. Cut into 4 inch rounds.
4. Fill and roll wrappers as desired for egg rolls. Use additional tapioca flour if wrappers get too sticky.
5. Fry or bake egg rolls according to recipe directions.
This basic recipe can be modified and experimented with using other gluten-free flours in place of the tapioca flour if desired. Have fun making your own homemade gluten-free wrappers!
Gluten-Free Egg Rolls Aren’t Off Limits for Those Avoiding Gluten!
In the past, being diagnosed with celiac disease or choosing a gluten-free diet may have meant feeling restricted from enjoying beloved foods like egg rolls and spring rolls. Fortunately, awareness of gluten-free needs has expanded dramatically in recent years. This has led to more and more specialty products like gluten-free wrappers becoming readily available in stores for all who wish to explore a gluten-free lifestyle. Those with celiac disease and related conditions can also find safe options that allow them to keep ethnic gluten-free cuisine in their diets without sacrificing taste or nutrition. Thanks to these advances, classic appetizers like crispy egg rolls do not have to be off limits for those eating gluten-free! With some simple substitutions like swapping to a dedicated gluten-free egg roll wrapper brand, you can continue to enjoy these crave-worthy bites for any occasion.
Conclusion
Gluten-free egg roll wrappers provide a convenient alternative for anyone avoiding gluten, allowing for all the wrapping and rolling fun without worry. Multiple brands now offer wrappers made with rice, tapioca starch, or other gluten-free flours that can substitute into recipes seamlessly. Look for gluten-free egg roll wrappers in the refrigerated section of many major grocery stores, Asian markets, or online. Use them just as you would traditional wheat-based wrappers to create crave-worthy egg rolls at home or on-the-go that everyone can enjoy! With the proper gluten-free wrappers, egg roll possibilities are now endless.
