I am so excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite recipes, the “Egg Roll in a Bowl”! This dish has everything you love about traditional egg rolls—savory ground pork, crunchy veggies, a hint of ginger, and the irresistible umami flavors—but with a healthy, low-carb twist. No more worrying about deep-fried wrappers or greasy takeout! Egg Roll in a Bowl brings all the flavors you crave in a quicker, easier, and lighter format.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to a variety of dietary needs—whether you’re doing low-carb, keto, Whole30, or simply looking for a nutritious meal, Egg Roll in a Bowl is a delicious solution!
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What Is Egg Roll in a Bowl?
If you’re unfamiliar with the term, Egg Roll in a Bowl is essentially a deconstructed egg roll, made without the wrapper. You get all the best parts of an egg roll—sautéed ground pork (or turkey, beef, or chicken), cabbage, carrots, onions, and a mix of seasonings and sauces that provide that signature egg roll flavor. Everything is cooked together in one pan, making it an easy, one-dish meal!
It’s a great option for meal prep, too! You can make a big batch at the start of the week, portion it out, and enjoy it for lunch or dinner all week long. It reheats beautifully and the flavors get even better the next day. So, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this recipe is a winner.
Reasons to Love Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Healthy: Packed with lean protein and veggies, this dish is a well-balanced meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Quick & Easy: From prep to plate, this meal takes less than 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: With no wrappers and minimal carbs, this is a great option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
- Versatile: You can easily customize it by swapping out proteins, adding extra veggies, or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and have a healthy meal ready to go anytime you need it!
What Does Egg Roll in a Bowl Taste Like?
If you love the rich, savory flavors of Asian-inspired dishes, then you are going to adore this! The combination of ground pork, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil creates that classic egg roll flavor, while the sautéed veggies add freshness and crunch. It’s like having the filling of an egg roll without the fried shell! There’s a delightful balance between the savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors, especially when you drizzle some sriracha or hoisin sauce on top. The best part? The smell when this is cooking in your kitchen is out of this world!
Benefits of Making Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is not just a delicious meal—it’s a smart choice for a number of reasons:
- Low in Calories: Compared to traditional egg rolls that are deep-fried, this version eliminates the need for extra oil and dough, making it much lighter in calories.
- Packed with Protein and Fiber: Using ground pork or turkey ensures you’re getting a solid amount of protein, and the cabbage and other veggies contribute plenty of fiber, keeping you fuller for longer.
- Budget-Friendly: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples or inexpensive produce, making this a wallet-friendly meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: As mentioned earlier, Egg Roll in a Bowl is great for making ahead and storing for a quick meal later in the week.
Ingredients for Egg Roll in a Bowl
Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to make this tasty dish:
- 1 lb ground pork (or turkey, chicken, or beef)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (or a coleslaw mix)
- 2 medium carrots, julienned or shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sriracha (optional, for a spicy kick)
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Tools You’ll Need
- Large Skillet or Wok: To cook everything together in one pan.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Sharp Knife: To chop the vegetables and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Cutting Board: For prepping your ingredients.
- Grater or Julienne Peeler: If you’re shredding your own carrots.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Here are a few variations you can try:
- Protein: Swap out the ground pork for ground chicken, turkey, beef, or even tofu if you want to keep it plant-based.
- Vegetables: While cabbage and carrots are traditional, you can add in any other veggies you like—think bell peppers, snap peas, or even mushrooms!
- Sauces: If you’re looking to reduce sodium, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. You can also drizzle hoisin sauce or sweet chili sauce for more flavor.
- Spice Level: Want to kick up the heat? Add more sriracha or even some red pepper flakes to spice it up!
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
Step 1: Sauté the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork (or your choice of protein) and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
In the same skillet, add the sesame oil and onions. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onions begin to soften. Add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 3: Combine the Meat and Veggies
Return the cooked ground pork to the pan with the vegetables. Add the soy sauce and rice vinegar, stirring everything together so the flavors can meld. Let it cook for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is cooked and well combined, remove the pan from the heat. Serve hot, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha or hoisin sauce if desired. Enjoy!
What to Serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl
This dish is pretty much a complete meal on its own, but if you want to add some sides, here are a few ideas:
- Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb option that soaks up all the delicious flavors of the dish.
- Steamed White or Brown Rice: For those not worried about carbs, rice is a classic pairing with any stir-fry.
- Spring Rolls: If you’re not strictly low-carb, serving some fresh or baked spring rolls on the side would be delicious.
- Egg Drop Soup: For a light and flavorful starter, egg drop soup is a perfect match.
If you’re looking for dessert recipes to pair with this, check out my Raspberry Cheesecake or a No-Bake Mango Cheesecake to finish your meal on a sweet note!
Tips for Making the Best Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: You want the cabbage and carrots to be tender but still a bit crisp, so avoid overcooking them.
- Add Spices Early: Fresh garlic and ginger are key to the flavor of this dish, so make sure to sauté them for a minute or two before adding the rest of the ingredients.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamy twist, stir in a spoonful of mayonnaise or coconut milk right at the end. It adds a rich texture and makes it even more indulgent!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and ginger make a huge difference in flavor—avoid using the jarred versions if possible.
Storage Instructions
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a great meal prep option. Here’s how to store it:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- Freezer: You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can use tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms in place of the meat for a plant-based version.
- Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! With minimal carbs and plenty of protein and healthy fats, Egg Roll in a Bowl is perfect for a keto diet.
3. Can I use pre-shredded coleslaw mix?
Definitely. Using pre-shredded coleslaw mix will save you time and make this recipe even quicker.
4. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can substitute it with olive oil, though sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
Conclusion
Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect meal for when you’re craving something flavorful, healthy, and quick to make. It’s packed with protein, bursting with flavor, and offers all the satisfaction of an egg roll without the guilt. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or Whole30 diet, this dish fits right in!
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts below. And if you try it, snap a photo and share it with me on Pinterest—I love seeing your delicious creations!
For more fun and unique recipes, check out some of these mouth-watering dishes:
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
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