If you’ve ever craved that satisfying crunch and savory goodness of an egg roll but wanted a quicker, lighter meal, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is a total game-changer. It captures all the classic flavors of your favorite takeout without the hassle of frying or rolling wrappers. With tender ground pork, fragrant ginger and garlic, and crisp vegetables all mingling in a skillet, this dish delivers deep Asian-inspired flavors in one wholesome bowl. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and low-carb, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or whenever you want a comforting meal that feels indulgent yet fresh.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the harmony of each ingredient contributing to the final flavor and texture. Every item is carefully chosen to balance savory, fresh, and slightly tangy notes while adding vibrant color and satisfying crunch.
- 1 pound ground pork: The rich and juicy base that soaks up all the delicious seasonings beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a warm, nutty aroma that brings authentic depth to the dish.
- 4 cups shredded cabbage: Provides a crisp, crunchy texture and mild sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pork.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: For a pop of color and subtle earthy sweetness that enhances the visual appeal and taste.
- 3 green onions, sliced: A fresh, slightly pungent bite that brightens the entire dish at the end.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers an irresistible punch of flavor that deepens with cooking.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Brings a lively, zesty heat that pairs well with garlic for a classic Asian profile.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Infuses savory umami and saltiness to tie all the ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds just the right touch of acidity to balance the richness and brighten the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of heat; adjust to your liking or leave it out.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance and round out every bite.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Pork
Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat—it’s essential for releasing that toasty flavor. Add the ground pork carefully, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks to ensure tender, bite-sized pieces. Cooking until browned creates a tasty crust and locks in juiciness, which is the foundation for all the flavors to meld later.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Ginger
Once the pork has a beautiful golden color, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook for just a minute until fragrant; this brief moment activates the aromatic oils and layers in that signature warmth and zest that you expect in an egg roll flavor profile.
Step 3: Stir in the Vegetables
Next comes the colorful crunch—add the shredded cabbage and carrots. Toss everything together to combine, letting the vegetables soften while still retaining a little bite. This usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes, so keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The veggies add freshness, texture, and vibrant color to your dish.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you’re using it. These ingredients bring that delicious tangy and savory punch perfectly balancing the richness of the pork. Stir everything well to coat all the ingredients in the sauce, then cook together for another 2 minutes so those flavors soak in beautifully.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving Prep
Season with salt and pepper as desired, remembering that soy sauce already adds some saltiness, so taste before adding more. Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle the sliced green onions on top for a fresh, slightly sharp finish that makes every bite pop.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions give that classic fresh crunch and mild onion flavor that lifts the whole dish. For extra flair, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of extra sriracha sauce can really amp up the presentation and taste. Some people love adding a few fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of herbal brightness, too.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully adaptable on the side—try pairing it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal or serve alongside steamed jasmine rice if you want a more filling comfort food vibe. A light cucumber salad or simple miso soup also complements the flavors beautifully without overpowering the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get playful, serve the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe in individual lettuce cups to mimic the hand-held fun of traditional egg rolls but skip the wrappers. Another idea is topping it with a fried egg for an extra dose of protein and richness. It can also be a fantastic filling for rice paper rolls for a fresh take.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the flavors bright and the vegetables crisp-tender.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish to enjoy later—place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing, but the flavor will remain just as delicious.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to retain the savory juiciness and avoid sogginess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to revitalize the flavors and textures nicely.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work wonderfully in this recipe and provide a leaner protein option. Adjust cooking times slightly as these meats tend to cook a bit faster and can dry out if overcooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this dish is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of sriracha or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste. You could also serve it with a side of chili garlic sauce or fresh sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, bell peppers, or snap peas to add more color and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to maintain the right texture and prevent overcooking.
What’s the best way to eat this dish low-carb?
Serve the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe over cauliflower rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a satisfying low-carb meal without losing the essence of those delicious egg roll flavors.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an incredibly flavorful, easy-to-make meal that brings the essence of takeout without the fuss, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is something you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s quick, nourishing, and endlessly customizable, making it a go-to for busy nights or whenever you crave that classic Asian-inspired comfort without the guilt. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner!
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
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a flavorful and healthy stir-fry dish inspired by the classic egg roll, without the wrapper. Featuring ground pork, shredded cabbage, and carrots sautéed with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, this recipe is a quick and easy low-carb, gluten-free meal perfect for busy weeknights. It delivers all the deliciousness of an egg roll filling in a simple bowl.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound ground pork
Vegetables
- 4 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
Seasonings & Sauces
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil and cook pork: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks to ensure even cooking and crumbly texture.
- Add aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, allowing the flavors to meld with the pork.
- Cook vegetables: Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Season the dish: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Final seasoning and serving: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving hot.
Notes
- For a low-carb option, serve the egg roll mixture over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of pork for a lighter protein alternative.
- Adjust the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely to control the spiciness of the dish according to your preference.
