Msakhan Egg Rolls: A Delicious Twist on a Traditional Middle Eastern Dish

Msakhan Egg Rolls are a delightful twist on a traditional Middle Eastern dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many. Originating from Palestine, Msakhan is a beloved dish that features tender chicken, sumac, and caramelized onions, all served over flatbread. In this recipe, we take the essence of Msakhan and wrap it in crispy egg rolls, creating a fusion that is both convenient and bursting with flavor. I love how these Msakhan Egg Rolls combine the savory, aromatic spices with a satisfying crunch, making them perfect for a snack or a main course. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving something unique, these egg rolls are sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken Filling:
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (preferably roasted or grilled)
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup sumac (for that tangy flavor)
• For the Egg Rolls:
• 10-12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the rolls)
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil works well)
• For Serving:
• Yogurt or tahini sauce
• Fresh lemon wedges

Preparing the Chicken Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions.
3. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, allspice, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, and sumac. This will add a lovely crunch and a burst of flavor to the filling. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assembling the Egg Rolls

1. Once the chicken filling has cooled enough to handle, take an egg roll wrapper and lay it on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing towards you (like a diamond shape).
2. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling in the center of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make sealing difficult.
3. Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it in gently. Then, fold in the two side corners towards the center, creating an envelope shape.
4. Finally, roll the wrapper away from you towards the top corner, sealing the edge with a little bit of the beaten egg. This will help keep the roll intact during frying.
5. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until everything is assembled. You should have about 10-12 egg rolls.

Cooking the Egg Rolls

1. In a deep frying pan or a large pot, pour enough oil to submerge the egg rolls halfway (about 2-3 inches deep). Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles and bubbles, you’re good to go!
2. Carefully place a few egg rolls in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Using a slotted spoon, remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. This will keep them crispy and not greasy.
4. Continue frying the remaining egg rolls in batches until all are cooked. If you notice the oil temperature dropping, increase the heat slightly to maintain the frying temperature.

Serving the Msakhan Egg Rolls

1. Once all the egg rolls are fried and drained, arrange them on a serving platter. They look so inviting with their golden-brown color!
2. Serve the egg rolls warm with a side of yogurt or tahini sauce for dipping. The creamy sauce complements the spiced chicken filling beautifully.
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Conclusion:

In summary, these Msakhan Egg Rolls are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire. The combination of tender chicken, aromatic spices, and the delightful crunch of the egg roll wrapper creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Whether you serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering or as a fun twist on a weeknight dinner, these egg rolls are sure to impress your family and friends. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these Msakhan Egg Rolls with a refreshing side salad or a tangy yogurt dip to balance the flavors. You can also experiment with variations by adding your favorite vegetables or even swapping out the chicken for a vegetarian option like roasted mushrooms or chickpeas. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with me. I would love to hear how your Msakhan Egg Rolls turn out and any creative twists you might add. Cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this dish your own. Happy cooking!

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