Fresh Lumpia Recipe (Lumpiang Sariwa)

Introduction

Fresh Lumpia, also known as Lumpiang Sariwa, is a beloved Filipino dish featuring sautéed vegetables wrapped in a soft crepe-like wrapper, topped with a sweet-savory garlic-peanut sauce. Unlike its fried counterpart, this version is light, healthy, and bursting with fresh flavor. It’s often served during family gatherings, parties, or as a satisfying merienda (snack).

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 1 cup sweet potato or turnip (singkamas), julienned
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• ½ cup tofu or pork, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Wrapper:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1½ cups water
• 1 tbsp oil
• A pinch of salt

For the Lumpia Sauce:

• 2 cups water
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp cornstarch (dissolved in 2 tbsp water)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup ground peanuts (optional, but traditional)

Optional Garnishes:

• Lettuce leaves (to line the wrapper)
• Crushed garlic
• Crushed peanuts

Instructions

1. Make the Filling:

1. In a pan, heat oil and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add tofu or pork (if using), and cook until lightly browned.
3. Stir in carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans, and cook for 3–4 minutes.
4. Add cabbage last and cook just until wilted.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Wrapper:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, eggs, water, oil, and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease it.
3. Pour about ¼ cup of batter, tilt to spread thinly, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Do not flip.
4. Repeat until all batter is used. Stack wrappers on a plate, separating with parchment.

3. Cook the Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, combine water, soy sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer.
2. Stir in minced garlic and dissolved cornstarch.
3. Cook until thickened. Add ground peanuts, stir well, and turn off heat.

4. Assemble the Lumpia:

1. Place a wrapper on a plate, line with a lettuce leaf.
2. Add 2–3 tbsp of filling on top.
3. Fold both sides and roll like a burrito.
4. Pour sauce over lumpia and garnish with crushed peanuts and garlic.

Description

This Fresh Lumpia is soft, savory, and slightly sweet — a blend of crunchy vegetables and a garlicky, nutty sauce wrapped in a delicate homemade crepe. It’s a light yet satisfying dish that beautifully balances flavor and texture.

Tips

• Use singkamas or turnip if you want a traditional sweet crunch.
• Make sure wrappers are thin and soft but not too delicate.
• Lettuce adds a refreshing bite and helps keep the wrapper from tearing.
• Use a non-stick pan to make wrapper-cooking easier.
• You can prepare the filling and sauce ahead of time and just assemble before serving.

Variations

• Vegan Version: Skip meat and use tofu or mushrooms for protein.
• Add Shrimp or Chicken: For extra flavor and protein.
• Wrapper Shortcut: Use store-bought crepes or even rice paper if in a pinch.
• Spicy Kick: Add a bit of chili to the sauce or filling.

Correction (Common Mistakes to Avoid)

• Wrapper too thick? Thin your batter with a little more water.
• Wrapper cracking? Don’t overcook; keep it pliable.
• Sauce too runny? Make sure your cornstarch is fully dissolved and stir constantly.
• Filling watery? Cook vegetables just until tender to avoid excess moisture.

Enjoy!

Serve your Fresh Lumpia with extra sauce on the side, a sprinkle of garlic and peanuts, and a refreshing glass of calamansi juice or iced tea. This dish is a Filipino favorite for good reason — fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious!