We all know that going out for Chinese food on Christmas or Christmas Eve is, like, the thing for Jews to do. (Although I hear non-Jews like Chinese food on Christmas too, just sayin). But making your own Chinese food at home is pretty fun, especially when it only requires three ingredients. The rolling took a little time to master, but I think these egg rolls look pretty professional.
The concept for these egg rolls is actually inspired by a restaurant here in New York City called Red Farm, which features egg rolls made with Katz’s famous pastrami. My version uses simple chopped-up pastrami (which I bought at the store), jarred sauerkraut (thanks Trader Joe’s) and egg rolls (also store-bought).
Note: You can find store-bought egg roll wrappers in the produce section of most major supermarket chains (yes, the produce section, I swear). You can also try Asian specialty markets.
Pastrami Egg Rolls
A fusion twist on a deli classic, this recipe for pastrami egg rolls combines savory pastrami, tangy sauerkraut and creamy brown mustard.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 20
Ingredients
- store-bought egg rolls wrappers (you can find in the produce section of many major supermarkets)
- 1 lb sliced pastrami, chopped
- prepared sauerkraut (approximately 1½ cups)
- water, for sealing
- vegetable oil, for frying
For the dipping sauce (optional):
- 1 cup prepared duck sauce, mixed
- ¼ cup brown mustard, for dipping
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add around 2-3 Tbsp chopped pastrami on top of each egg roll wrapper.
- Add 1 Tbsp sauerkraut on top of pastrami.
- Fold sides of wrapper in (with points facing inwards). Pull large flap over the top and begin to roll tightly. Seal edges with water.
- When oil has heated, fry each egg roll for 1 minute on each side, or until crisp and golden.
- Mix duck sauce and mustard and serve with warm egg rolls.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Holiday
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What is the “thing” of Jews going to Chinese restaurants on Christmas? Nobody I ever knew did this. I heard it was something that Christians thought Jews did when I was about 40 years old (20 years ago!), and we tried it. Once. Maybe it’s a New York Jewish “thing”? They have more Chinese restaurants there.
Hi Alice, here’s everything you need to know!