Nigerian Egg Roll

Picture this: golden-brown, crispy on the outside, and filled with a warm, savory surprise inside. This is the essence of the beloved Nigerian egg roll. A deep-fried pastry wrapped around a hard-boiled egg, it’s a perfect street food snack or a hearty addition to any meal. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and the end result is an irresistible treat. Whether you’re in Nigeria or somewhere else, this recipe will transport you straight to the bustling streets where this snack is enjoyed by many. Let’s dive into how to make this amazing Nigerian Egg Roll.

What You’ll Need

• eggs (hard-boiled and peeled)

For the Dough

• 315g of all-purpose flour
• 3 1/2 tablespoons of sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 35g margarine (or butter, preferably unsalted)
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 egg
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons of water
• 1/4 cup of unsweetened coconut flakes (or coconut flour)
• 1/4 cup powdered milk

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

Step by Step Instructions on how to make the perfect Nigerian Eggrolls

1. Boil the Eggs:

Start by boiling the eggs. Place the eggs in a pot, cover with water, and cook for about 10 minutes until hard-boiled. Once they are done, transfer them to a bowl of cold water to stop the cooking process, then peel them and set them aside.

2. Prepare the Dough:

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons of water. Set this mixture aside.

In another large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, powdered milk, unsweetened coconut flakes (or coconut flour), sugar, salt, baking powder, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Mix everything together until well combined. Add in the margarine (or butter). If you’re using salted butter, be sure to omit the added salt in the mixture.

Next, pour the egg and water mixture into the dry ingredients and mix until the dough forms. The dough will feel sticky at first, but don’t worry – after letting it rest for 10 minutes, it will become easier to work with. If you prefer a firmer egg roll, knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Roll the Dough:

Once the dough has rested, transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll it out gently to smooth the surface, but don’t flatten it too much. Divide the dough into six equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten it with your hands.

Now, place a peeled egg in the center of each flattened dough portion. Carefully fold the dough around the egg, sealing it well by pinching the edges together. You want to avoid any excess dough and cracks, so roll it into a smooth ball shape.

4. Heat the Oil:

While preparing the egg rolls, heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Test the temperature by placing a skewer or small piece of dough in the oil. If bubbles form around it, your oil is ready. Alternatively, use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 310-320°F.

5. Fry the Egg Rolls:

Carefully place the prepared egg rolls into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. This should take about 7-10 minutes, depending on the size of the rolls.

Once they’re done, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain off any excess oil.

6. Enjoy Your Nigerian Egg Rolls:

Your Nigerian egg rolls are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them hot for the ultimate snack experience. They pair perfectly with a chilled drink or as a hearty side dish to complement any meal.

Pro Tips for the Best Nigerian Egg Roll

• Perfectly Boiled Eggs: Be sure to boil your eggs for exactly 10 minutes to ensure they’re firm but not overcooked.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour, but be careful not to overdo it. The dough should be soft but manageable.
• Frying Temperature: Keep an eye on the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, your egg rolls might burn on the outside before cooking through. Too cold, and they might soak up too much oil.
• Variation Ideas: You can experiment by adding a little pepper, garlic powder, or other spices to the dough to make it even more flavorful.

Make Ahead Tips

If you want to make Nigerian egg rolls ahead of time, you can prepare the dough and fill it with eggs. Place the uncooked rolls in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying them. Alternatively, freeze the rolls for up to 3 months and fry straight from the freezer. It’s a great way to have these crispy delights ready for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love Nigerian Egg Rolls

Nigerian egg rolls are the perfect blend of crispy, soft, savory, and satisfying. The outside is golden and crunchy, while the inside is warm and full of flavor. Whether you’re indulging in them as a snack or adding them to a larger meal, these egg rolls are a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to leave everyone asking for more. Give this recipe a try, and get ready to enjoy a delicious Nigerian treat in the comfort of your own home.