Spring Rolls, Summer Rolls, and Egg Rolls: How Are They Different?

Spring rolls and summer rolls may seem similar, but they're more than just a matter of words. Both have roots in South and Southeast Asia, but they've become favorites far beyond the region. So, what's the real difference? And how do egg rolls fit into this mix? Find out how the crispy, deep-fried spring rolls differ from the fresh, lighter summer rolls.

What Exactly Is a Spring Roll?

Spring rolls trace their origins to China, where they were originally created for Chinese New Year celebrations. The rolls were stacked to resemble gold bars, symbolizing wealth. Their name comes from the fact that the holiday marks the beginning of spring according to the lunar calendar.

But what do spring rolls actually consist of? They feature a delicate, paper-thin wrapper made from just flour and water. This wrapper is so crisp it can break at the slightest touch. Inside, you'll typically find a mix of pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and cabbage, all fried to perfection. They’re often paired with a tangy vinegar-based dip, a sweet-and-sour sauce, or a Worcestershire-inspired sauce for added flavor.

Spring Rolls vs. Egg Rolls: What's the Difference?

You might be wondering (I was too): How are these different from a regular egg roll? It turns out, the egg roll is actually a variation of the spring roll, originally developed in America. The key difference lies in the wrapper: egg rolls use a batter that includes egg, making the wrapper thicker. The result? Egg rolls have a crispy, puffy skin, while spring rolls are smoother and more delicate.

What Exactly Is a Summer Roll?

Unlike spring rolls and egg rolls, summer rolls are served chilled (making them perfect for hot summer days) and feature a translucent wrapper. Known by many names—Vietnamese spring rolls, fresh spring rolls, or salad rolls—these rolls hail from Vietnam. They typically contain rice noodles, carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, herbs, and shrimp or pork, all wrapped in a rice-paper wrapper. Summer rolls are often paired with a creamy peanut or tangy hoisin dipping sauce.

The Final Verdict

Though the terms are often used interchangeably, the distinction between spring rolls, summer rolls, and egg rolls goes beyond mere semantics. Spring rolls are made with a flour-water dough, then deep-fried; summer rolls use a delicate rice-paper wrapper and are served fresh and cold. Egg rolls are a variation of spring rolls, where the batter includes egg, creating a thicker, crispier wrapper. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and crispy or light and fresh, these rolls all offer a burst of delicious flavor.