Egg Roll In A Bowl Recipe

Are you a fan of egg rolls but looking for a lighter, healthier option that’s easy to prepare? If so, this Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is the perfect dish for you! Not only does it capture all the flavors of traditional egg rolls, but it also saves you the trouble of dealing with wrappers and deep frying. Packed with protein, veggies, and bold Asian flavors, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also great for meal prep or weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into this exciting recipe and make sure to read through to the end for the best tips, serving suggestions, and variations you can try at home!

this Recipe

What is “Egg Roll in a Bowl”?

Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of the classic egg roll appetizer, served in a single dish without the crispy, deep-fried wrapper. It combines the filling ingredients—ground meat, cabbage, carrots, and seasonings—into a stir-fry that’s low-carb, gluten-free (if using gluten-free soy sauce), and keto-friendly. Think of it as all the savory goodness of an egg roll, but with less effort and fewer calories!

Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl

One of the best things about this recipe is that it uses simple, readily available ingredients that you can find in any grocery store. Here's what you’ll need:

• 1 pound ground pork (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
• 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free, or coconut aminos for a low-sodium option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients List for Toppings and Variations

• Fried egg (optional, for extra protein and a traditional touch)
• Crushed pork rinds (to add crunch and stay keto-friendly)
• Chopped cilantro (for freshness)
• Red pepper flakes (for extra spice)
• Hoisin sauce or extra soy sauce (for drizzling on top)
• Wonton strips or crispy noodles (for a crunchier texture, though not keto-friendly)
• Avocado slices (for a creamy, healthy fat addition)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the greatest benefits of the Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit dietary needs or simply to switch up the flavor profile. Here are some options for substitutions and variations:

• Protein Substitutions: If pork isn’t your favorite, swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even beef. For a plant-based option, you can use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a meat alternative.
• Low-Sodium Option: Replace regular soy sauce with low-sodium soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh and use a vegan-friendly soy sauce or tamari.
• Vegetables: While cabbage and carrots are the staples, you can also add other veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini to enhance the dish.
• Gluten-Free: To make this dish gluten-free, simply use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and check other condiments for hidden gluten.
• Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of sriracha or adding crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer it milder, leave out the spicy ingredients altogether.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that we’ve gone over the ingredients and possible variations, it’s time to start cooking! This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick and healthy meal.

1. Heat the Sesame Oil: Start by heating sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. This adds a deep, nutty flavor to your dish that’s signature to Asian cuisine.
2. Cook the Ground Pork: Add your ground pork (or chosen protein) to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Once the meat is cooked, add the minced garlic, ginger, and chopped onion to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook until the onions are soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the Vegetables: Now it’s time to incorporate the shredded cabbage and carrots into the skillet. Toss everything together, making sure the veggies are evenly coated with the meat mixture.
5. Add Seasoning: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using) into the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and the cabbage has softened slightly, around 5-6 minutes. Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce as needed.
6. Finishing Touches: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sliced green onions. Top with sesame seeds for a bit of crunch and a beautiful presentation.

How to Cook Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking Egg Roll in a Bowl is incredibly easy, and here’s a quick overview to keep handy:

1. Brown your protein in sesame oil (pork, turkey, chicken, or tofu).
2. Sauté your aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onions.
3. Add shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet, then stir-fry until they begin to soften.
4. Season with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha, adjusting as per your taste.
5. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

It’s that simple! In no time, you’ll have a delicious, healthy, one-pan meal ready to enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Although this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common pitfalls you should watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Be careful not to overcook the cabbage and carrots. You want them to have a little crunch for texture.
• Using too much soy sauce: Soy sauce can be very salty, so start with less and taste as you go. You can always add more, but you can't take it out once it's in.
• Skipping the ginger or garlic: These two ingredients are key to capturing the authentic Asian flavors of the dish, so don’t leave them out!
• Not draining excess fat: If you're using ground pork or beef, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning the meat, otherwise, your dish may turn out too greasy.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation isn’t just about looks—it can also make a dish more appetizing! Here are some tips for making your Egg Roll in a Bowl meal look as good as it tastes:

• Use a Wide, Shallow Bowl: A wide, shallow bowl or plate will allow you to see all the colorful ingredients.
• Garnish Generously: Top with plenty of sesame seeds, green onions, and a drizzle of hoisin or soy sauce for a more finished look.
• Add a Fried Egg on Top: For a beautiful presentation and extra flavor, serve the dish with a fried egg on top and let the yolk act as a creamy sauce.

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl

This dish is quite versatile and can be served in several different ways:

• Over Rice: Serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a more filling meal.
• With Cauliflower Rice: If you're following a low-carb or keto diet, pair it with cauliflower rice.
• As a Lettuce Wrap: Spoon the mixture into large lettuce leaves to make healthy wraps.

Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl

• Serve in stylish black or white bowls for a striking contrast against the colorful ingredients.
• Place a small dish of sriracha or soy sauce on the side for those who like extra seasoning.
• Add chopsticks for an authentic touch, even though the dish can be eaten with a fork.

Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips

• Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for meal prepping! Just cook a large batch and store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches during the week.
• Make it Saucy: If you prefer your food with extra sauce, double the soy sauce and rice vinegar mixture for a wetter consistency.
• Keep it Crunchy: If you’re not concerned about carbs, sprinkle some crispy wonton strips or fried rice noodles on top for added crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?

Yes! You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply thaw overnight and warm up in a skillet or microwave.

Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is keto-friendly as it’s low in carbs. For an even lower-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the meat with tofu, tempeh, or another plant-based protein.

Conclusion

Egg Roll in a Bowl is a simple yet flavorful dish that captures all the deliciousness of traditional egg rolls without the need for wrappers or frying. It's packed with fresh veggies, savory seasonings, and can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight meal or something healthy to meal prep for the week, this dish will hit the spot. Now that you have all the steps, tips, and tricks, it's time to get cooking!

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