Beef lumpia is a popular Filipino starter, often served at gatherings and celebrations. Packed with flavour, these spring rolls make a great party appetiser or after-school snack.   

This recipe is my first Filipino recipe and I absolutely loved it. Originally, I was going to make chicken spring rolls and keema samosas with my pastry sheets, but then in the heat of the moment, I decided to try something I’d never made before.  

Hence, this recipe was born. After some research, I found that lumpia are typically made using pork. In this lumpia recipe, I use beef and mixed vegetables instead, and it tastes so much better.  

If you’ve been following my food blog for a while now, you would know I love using bell peppers in everything, like my chicken pasta recipe or my chicken quesadilla recipe.  

I didn’t add them to this recipe because I wanted to keep it as authentic as possible. Feel free to add them if you like.  

For the carrots, you do not always need to peel them. However, I highly recommend that you do. The outer layer of the carrot can sometimes have a bitter taste or a tough texture.  

They also tend to have dirt or debris on their surface, which you should thoroughly wash before eating.

If the carrots are organic and the skin is thin and tender, you can skip the peeling. However, if the skin is thick, tough, or blemished, it is always best to peel them.  

Once you’ve made the beef mixture, you need to let it completely cool before assembling the lumpia. The warm filling can cause the wrappers to become soggy and fall apart. 

You need to make sure that you wrap the lumpia properly as otherwise, they burst when you fry them. Make sure you tightly wrap them and the ends are properly sealed.  

A good tip when using pastry sheets is to keep the sheets moist by covering them with a damp towel while you work. Dried-out sheets are difficult to work with and can break easily. 

I absolutely loved this beef lumpia recipe and it is definitely on my list of freezer-friendly items to make for next Ramadan. Try it and you will definitely agree.  

Traditionally paired with a sweet chilli sauce for a bang of flavour and richness, these beef lumpia are best served warm. Flavourful, crunchy, and so yummy, these beef lumpia will go down a treat. 

Substituting Ground Beef with Other Meats in Lumpia

I’m always looking for ways to modify recipes to suit my cravings or accommodate dietary preferences. One question that comes up frequently is whether you can substitute ground beef with other meats in Beef Lumpia. The answer? Absolutely!

Experimenting with ground chicken or turkey is a fantastic way to switch things up. Chicken gives a lighter flavour, while turkey provides a rich and savoury taste. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as chicken and turkey mince may cook faster than beef.

For an even more adventurous twist, try using ground turkey or lamb for a unique flavour profile. Be mindful of the seasonings, though, as different meats may require slight adjustments to the soy sauce, oyster sauce, or brown sugar quantities.

As a rule of thumb, always taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Remember, it’s all about balance – sweet, salty, and umami flavours should meld together harmoniously. So, go ahead and experiment with different meats to create a personalized version of Lumpia that tickles your taste buds!

Oyster Sauce Alternatives for Shellfish Allergy or Vegetarian Lumpia

Having a shellfish allergy or adhering to a vegetarian diet should never stop you from enjoying delicious dishes like Lumpia. If oyster sauce is off-limits, there are several alternatives that can provide a similar umami kick.

For vegetarians, try mushroom-based oyster sauce or vegetarian stir-fry sauce. These options boast a rich, savoury flavour without any shellfish. They’re widely available at Asian grocery stores or online.

For those with shellfish allergies, consider using hoisin sauce, which is made from fermented soybean paste, sugar, and spices. The flavour is slightly sweeter, but it’s an excellent stand-in for oyster sauce. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Another option is a simple mix of soy sauce and a dash of sugar, mirin, or rice vinegar. This combination lacks the depth of oyster sauce but still provides a satisfying umami punch.

Remember, Lumpia is a versatile dish open to customization. Don’t hesitate to modify the recipe and make it your own.

Preparing Beef Mixture Ahead of Time for Lumpia

I’m all about saving time in the kitchen, especially when hosting a dinner party or planning for busy weekdays. Preparing the beef mixture for Lumpia ahead of time is a lifesaver! You’ll be glad to know that it stores well both in the fridge and freezer.

To refrigerate, simply transfer the cooled beef mixture to an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to assemble the Lumpia, give the mixture a good stir, and you’re good to go!

For freezing, place the cooled beef mixture in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing any excess air. Label it with the date, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

To use, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then drain any excess liquid before assembling the Lumpia.

By preparing the beef mixture ahead of time, you’ll cut down on last-minute kitchen stress and have more time to enjoy your scrumptious Lumpia with friends and family.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Lumpia

Leftover Lumpia? No problem! With the right storage and reheating techniques, you can still enjoy them as a delicious snack or appetizer. Here’s how to store and reheat your Lumpia without sacrificing flavour or texture.

To store leftover Lumpia, let them cool to room temperature first. Then, place them in an airtight container with layers of parchment or wax paper in between to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze your Lumpia in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag, removing excess air. Label them with the date, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Lumpia is easy, whether they’re refrigerated or frozen. For the best results, use an oven, toaster oven, or air fryer. Preheat the appliance to 350°F (175°C). Place the Lumpia on a baking sheet, and heat for 8-10 minutes if refrigerated, or 15-20 minutes if frozen. This method helps retain the Lumpia’s crispy exterior and delicious filling.

While microwaving is quicker, it’s not recommended, as it can result in a soggy texture. Take a few extra minutes to reheat your Lumpia in the oven, and you’ll be rewarded with a snack that’s almost as good as freshly cooked!

Beef Lumpia Filling Variations

Beef Lumpia is such a versatile dish that it’s no wonder people want to experiment with different fillings. The possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to inspire your next Lumpia creation:

Add some heat: Spice things up with a finely chopped chilli pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Seafood delight: Swap ground beef for shrimp, crab, or fish for a seafood twist.

Veggie boost: Incorporate a variety of veggies like bell peppers, bean sprouts, or mushrooms for extra flavour and texture.

Nutty crunch: Toss in a handful of chopped water chestnuts or peanuts for an unexpected crunch.

International fusion: Get creative with seasonings! Think curry powder for an Indian flair, or ground cumin and coriander for a Middle Eastern touch.

Remember, these are just starting points – feel free to mix and match ingredients and spices to create a unique Lumpia filling that you love. The key is to have fun in the kitchen and let your taste buds be your guide!

Baking or Air-Frying Beef Lumpia for a Healthier Option

If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to deep-frying, baking or air-frying Beef Lumpia is an excellent choice. Both methods result in crispy, delicious Lumpia without the added oil.

To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the Lumpia seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly brush or spray the Lumpia with oil to encourage browning. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and crispy.

For air-frying, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Lightly coat the Lumpia with oil or cooking spray, and arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

With these healthier cooking methods, you can enjoy your Beef Lumpia guilt-free while still satisfying your cravings for a crispy, flavourful treat.

Dipping Sauce Pairings for Beef Lumpia

While sweet chilli sauce is a classic dipping sauce for Beef Lumpia, there are plenty of other options to explore. Diversifying your dipping sauce choices elevates your Lumpia experience and keeps things interesting. Here are some dipping sauce ideas to try:

Garlic Soy Sauce: Combine soy sauce, minced garlic, a splash of rice vinegar, and a pinch of sugar for a tangy, garlicky dip.

Peanut Sauce: Blend peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and crushed red pepper flakes for a creamy, nutty sauce with a hint of spice.

Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with sriracha or your favourite hot sauce for a creamy, spicy kick.

Filipino Vinegar Dip (Sawsawan): Combine white vinegar, minced garlic, thinly sliced shallots, a touch of sugar, and chopped chillies for an authentic Filipino dipping sauce.

Cilantro Lime Yogurt Sauce: Blend Greek yoghurt, fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a dash of salt for a refreshing, zesty dip.

Feel free to mix and match these dipping sauces to find your favourite combinations. Offering a variety of sauces also adds a fun, interactive element when serving Beef Lumpia to friends and family.

Preventing Spring Roll Wrappers from Drying Out While Assembling Lumpia

When working with spring roll wrappers, it’s essential to prevent them from drying out, as they can become brittle and difficult to work with. Here are a few tips to keep your wrappers fresh and pliable during assembly:

• Keep the unused wrappers covered with a slightly damp kitchen towel or paper towel while you work. This prevents exposure to air, which can dry them out quickly.
• Work efficiently, but don’t rush. It’s better to take a few extra minutes to carefully assemble your Lumpia than to deal with torn wrappers.
• Only take out a few wrappers at a time from the package, keeping the rest sealed to maintain freshness.
• If a wrapper becomes too dry or starts to crack, use a clean pastry brush to lightly dampen it with water, which can help restore some pliability.

By taking these precautions, you’ll ensure that your spring roll wrappers remain easy to work with, resulting in perfectly rolled Lumpia every time.

Making and Freezing Lumpia in Bulk

If you love Lumpia as much as I do, making a large batch to freeze for later is a great idea. Having pre-made Lumpia on hand makes for quick and easy meals or appetizers whenever the craving strikes.

To freeze uncooked Lumpia, assemble them according to the recipe instructions but stop before frying. Place the Lumpia in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid.

Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag, removing excess air. Label them with the date, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Lumpia, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply deep-fry, bake, or air-fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Side Dishes and Accompaniments for Beef Lumpia

Beef Lumpia is a delicious appetizer or snack on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can turn it into a complete meal. Here are a few ideas to create a well-rounded dining experience:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: Serve Beef Lumpia over a bed of fluffy steamed rice for a filling, satisfying meal.

Noodle Salad: Pair your Lumpia with a cold noodle salad tossed in a tangy dressing for a refreshing contrast.

Stir-Fried Vegetables: Complement your Lumpia with a colourful array of stir-fried veggies, like bell peppers, bok choy, and snow peas, seasoned with soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil.

Pickled Vegetables: Add some tangy crunch to your meal with a side of pickled vegetables, such as cucumber, daikon radish, or carrot.

Fresh Green Salad: Lighten up your meal with a simple green salad dressed in a citrusy vinaigrette, featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.

Filipino Pancit: Prepare a classic Filipino noodle dish, like Pancit Canton or Pancit Bihon, to serve alongside your Beef Lumpia for a true Filipino feast.

Mango Salad: For a burst of tropical flavour, toss together a refreshing mango salad with fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

Coconut Rice: Elevate your rice game by cooking Jasmine rice with coconut milk, adding a rich, creamy element to your meal.

Grilled Pineapple: Grill pineapple slices for a sweet and smoky side dish that pairs well with the savoury flavours of Beef Lumpia.

These side dishes and accompaniments not only enhance the taste of your Beef Lumpia but also provide a variety of textures and flavours for a well-rounded, enjoyable meal. Mix and match your favourites or get creative with your own side dish ideas to create a personalized dining experience.

Check Out These Other Recipes

Oh, you’ve enjoyed my Beef Lumpia recipe? Well, I have a few more that would be right up your alley, they’re scrumptious and quite complementary to the Beef Lumpia. Can I share them with you?

You must try my Chicken Spring Rolls. They’re light, crispy, and packed with tender chicken pieces and a mix of finely chopped vegetables. The rolling technique is just as fun as with Beef Lumpia and gives you the satisfaction of creating your own delicate appetizer.

Next up, Vegetable Spring Rolls. These crunchy little parcels are an absolute delight, filled with a delicious assortment of sautéed vegetables. These are perfect for when you want to go meatless but still want to enjoy the satisfying crunch of a well-made spring roll.

Venturing into a similar realm, I encourage you to check out the Vegetable Pakora. These are scrumptious deep-fried fritters that are packed with flavour. They make for an excellent snack and are a great appetizer option for when you’re entertaining guests.

And how about the Chicken Pakora? Imagine tender, juicy pieces of chicken coated in a spiced batter and fried until crispy. Served with a tangy chutney, this dish can easily steal the show at your next gathering.

Lastly, the Keema Samosa is a must-try. This snack has a savoury minced meat filling that’s tucked inside a homemade pastry shell, which is then fried to golden perfection. This dish might be a tad bit heavier than the lumpia, but the succulent filling and crispy shell are certainly worth the extra calories.

If you try these recipes, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you! You can leave comments and suggestions below. I hope these have piqued your interest and made your mouth water a little.