What Is the Difference Between Vegetable Spring Rolls & Egg Rolls?

by Maxine Wallace

The terms egg roll and spring roll are often used interchangeably in the American lexicon, but they are actually two distinct different items. While the lines may be blurred, knowing the difference can help you order these tasty Asian treats in restaurants, as well as prepare them at home in your kitchen.

Egg Rolls vs. Spring Rolls

While there are multiple variations of the two, several points generally set spring rolls and egg rolls apart. Egg rolls are typically made with meat, usually pork or chicken, and vegetables such as cabbage and carrots. They are wrapped with a thicker egg-based wrapper before being fried. Spring rolls are thinner and most often contain only vegetables. While commonly fried, spring rolls can also be served cold and not fried, sometimes being called summer rolls or garden rolls. Spring rolls most often are wrapped using a rice-based wrapper. Both are served with a sweet, sour and sometimes spicy dipping sauce.

About the Author

Based in Portland, Ore., Maxine Wallace is a writer with more than 12 years of experience. With a bachelor's degree in journalism and experience working on marketing campaigns for large media agencies, she is well-versed in multiple industries including the Internet, cooking, gardening, health, fitness, travel and holistic living.

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