Pickled Tongue Spring Rolls with Apricot-Bourbon Dipping Sauce
Savory spring rolls filled with tender pickled tongue, caramelized onions, and Dijon mustard, paired with a sweet-tangy apricot-bourbon dipping sauce. This unique appetizer combines traditional Jewish deli flavors with Asian-inspired presentation. The pickled tongue provides rich, savory depth while the bourbon-spiked apricot sauce adds sophisticated sweetness. Perfect for adventurous dinner parties or special occasions when you want to surprise guests with an unexpected flavor combination.
Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- oil, for sautéing, plus more for frying(optional)
- 1 pound sliced pickled tonguepastrami1:1kosher
similar smoky flavor
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 4 scallions, sliced
- 8 spring roll wrappers
- ½ cup apricot jam
- 2 tablespoons bourbon
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions
- 1
Make the dipping sauce by whisking together apricot spread, bourbon, and soy sauce until combined
- 2
Heat oil in a medium frying pan and sauté onion over medium heat until golden
- 3
Add sliced tongue and sauté for five more minutes
- 4
Add mustard, brown sugar, and salt, mix to combine and remove from heat
- 5
Fill spring roll wrappers with the meat mixture and sprinkle with scallions
- 6
Roll them spring roll style
- 7
Either fry the spring rolls in hot oil or bake at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 20 minutes
- 8
Serve with dipping sauce
Tips
Pickled tongue can be found at Jewish delis or kosher markets, or you can substitute with pastrami for a similar flavor profile
If frying, ensure oil is hot enough (350°F) so spring rolls crisp quickly without absorbing excess oil
The dipping sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week
Good to Know
Store leftover spring rolls covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in 350°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Filling can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated. Assemble spring rolls just before cooking for best texture.
Serve immediately while hot and crispy, with dipping sauce on the side for individual portions.
Common Mistakes
Don't overfill spring rolls or they'll burst during cooking
Ensure filling is cooled before assembling to prevent soggy wrappers
Substitutions
similar smoky flavor
FAQ
Can I make these without alcohol?
Yes, substitute the bourbon with apple juice or omit entirely. The sauce will be sweeter but still delicious.
What if I can't find pickled tongue?
Pastrami or corned beef work well as substitutes, providing similar rich, seasoned meat flavors for the filling.
How long do these keep?
Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep 3 days refrigerated. Reheat in oven to restore crispness rather than microwaving.