If you love the flavors of a classic egg roll but want to skip the deep-fried wrapper and get straight to the good stuff, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful stir-fry packed with savory ground pork, crisp cabbage, and vibrant seasonings that deliver all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout in a quick, healthy, and downright satisfying bowl. Whether you’re craving a low-carb dinner or a fuss-free weeknight meal, this recipe offers bold Asian-inspired flavors without the mess or hassle, making it a total winner for busy days or anytime you want a comforting yet nutritious supper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating this tasty dish. Each element adds its own unique texture, flavor, or color that comes together beautifully in the final bowl.
- 1 pound ground pork (or ground chicken or turkey): Provides a rich, savory base with plenty of protein and juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a delightful nutty aroma that elevates the overall taste profile.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings natural sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Creates a warm, aromatic punch that enhances all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Offers a subtle zesty heat and freshness.
- 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots): Gives a satisfying crunch and vibrant color, perfectly balancing the meat.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free): Infuses the dish with umami-rich saltiness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional): Gives a subtle spicy kick for those who enjoy some heat.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Freshens the dish with a mild onion flavor and pops of green color.
- Sesame seeds for garnish: Adds texture and a little toasty crunch as a finishing touch.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pork and Onions
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the ground pork with the finely chopped onion and stir as it cooks to break the meat into crumbles. Allow it to brown evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the savory, hearty foundation for the dish and transforms the pork into irresistible flavor bites.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the pork is cooked through and the onions have softened, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook together for 1 to 2 minutes until you can smell that wonderful fragrance filling your kitchen. These aromatic ingredients are key to achieving that classic egg roll taste without the wrapper.
Step 3: Incorporate the Coleslaw Mix
Next, add the coleslaw mix of shredded cabbage and carrots directly to the skillet. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, so that the cabbage becomes tender yet retains a bit of crunch. This contrast in texture is what makes the dish lively and satisfying rather than mushy.
Step 4: Season and Finish Cooking
Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you’re using it for some heat. Let everything cook together for another minute so the flavors mingle perfectly and the dish is heated through. Don’t rush this step because it’s when the magic of balance between salty, tangy, and spicy comes alive in your bowl.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once off the heat, sprinkle the sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for a fresh, crunchy finish. Your Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is now ready to serve hot and enjoy immediately — simple, quick, and seriously delicious.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes truly personalizes your bowl. The green onions provide fresh, subtle sharpness, while the toasted sesame seeds lend an earthy crunch. Feel free to toss in extra chili flakes if you like more spice or even a drizzle of more sesame oil to amp up that nutty flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with simple sides like steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice makes it even more satisfying. A light cucumber salad or miso soup can complement it wonderfully if you want a more complete Asian-inspired meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pork and cabbage mixture inside lettuce leaves for a fresh and handheld experience. You can also sprinkle chopped peanuts or crushed water chestnuts on top to introduce extra texture. If you’re feeling indulgent, top your bowl with a fried or poached egg to add richness and extra protein.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and try to enjoy them within 3 to 4 days. The flavors develop even more overnight, but the crunch of the cabbage is best soon after cooking.
Freezing
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure it’s fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat to prevent the ground meat from drying out, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but cover and heat in short bursts to maintain the flavors and texture without drying out the cabbage.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work great and make this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe lighter while still delivering delicious flavor. Just adjust cooking time slightly since these proteins can cook faster.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be made gluten-free by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This swap keeps the umami flavor while avoiding gluten entirely.
Can I make this vegetarian or vegan?
Sure! Swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms for a plant-based version. Adjust the seasonings as needed to keep the same bold flavors.
What if I don’t have coleslaw mix?
You can use shredded green cabbage and carrots separately or mix in additional veggies like bell peppers or snap peas to keep things fresh and crunchy.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep since it reheats well and holds its flavor. Just store in portioned containers and reheat as needed for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe has quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I need a flavorful, comforting dish that comes together in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights, anyone watching carbs, or just when you want all the best flavors of an egg roll without the fuss of frying. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it your favorite too!
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Low Carb, Gluten Free
Description
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a flavorful, low-carb twist on traditional egg rolls without the wrapper. Featuring ground pork, fresh vegetables, and classic Asian seasonings, it’s a quick and easy stovetop meal perfect for weeknights or meal prep. The dish delivers all the satisfying flavors of an egg roll in a healthy, gluten-free bowl.
Ingredients
Protein and Oil
- 1 pound ground pork (or ground chicken or turkey)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 green onions, sliced
Seasonings and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Meat and Onion: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and chopped onion, breaking up the meat as it cooks, for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Garlic and Ginger: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aromatic flavors.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots) to the skillet. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage softens but retains a slight crunch.
- Season the Bowl: Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if using. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld and the dish to heat through evenly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top. Serve hot directly in bowls, enjoying the taste of egg roll filling without the wrapper.
Notes
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- For a keto or low-carb meal, ensure the soy sauce is sugar-free or opt for coconut aminos.
- Add chopped water chestnuts for additional crunch.
- Top with a fried egg to boost protein content.
- This dish can be made with ground chicken or turkey as alternatives to pork.
