Sometimes the craving for takeout hits hard—but what if you could enjoy all the flavors of your favorite egg roll without the grease, wrapping, or waiting? That’s where Egg Roll in a Bowl comes in. This dish delivers everything you love about the classic appetizer—savory meat, crisp vegetables, and that signature umami kick—deconstructed into a wholesome, one-pan meal that’s ready in minutes. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or just want a flavorful dinner that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction, this recipe is a total game-changer. Fast, filling, and full of bold flavor, it’s proof that comfort food can also be clean and simple.
Why You’ll Love This Egg Roll in a Bowl
This Egg Roll in a Bowl is a game-changer for busy nights! It’s not just quick to make, but it’s also packed with flavor that will make your taste buds dance. In just 25 minutes, you can serve a wholesome meal that feels indulgent yet is low in carbs. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to picky eaters, making it a family favorite. What’s not to love?
Ingredients for Egg Roll in a Bowl
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Pork (or Ground Turkey): This is the star of the dish, providing a savory base. You can also use ground chicken for a lighter option.
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle of this fragrant oil adds a nutty flavor that’s essential for that authentic Asian taste.
Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth to the dish. It caramelizes beautifully when sautéed.
Garlic: Minced garlic adds a punch of flavor. It’s a must-have for any savory dish!
Fresh Ginger: Grated ginger gives a warm, spicy kick that elevates the overall taste.
Coleslaw Mix: This convenient mix of shredded cabbage and carrots is not only time-saving but also adds crunch and color.
Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce brings umami and saltiness, tying all the flavors together.
Rice Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the meat.
Sriracha (optional): If you like a bit of heat, a dash of sriracha will spice things up!
Green Onions: Sliced green onions add freshness and a pop of color when sprinkled on top.
Sesame Seeds: These are perfect for garnishing, adding a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
For those looking for alternatives, you can substitute the ground meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Feel free to toss in extra veggies like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and crunch!
Exact quantities for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delightful Egg Roll in a Bowl! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Start by heating a tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This oil is key to achieving that authentic flavor. Once it’s shimmering, you’re ready for the next step!
Step 2: Cook the Ground Meat
Add one pound of ground pork (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You want it browned and crumbly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and trust me, it’s heavenly!
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté these for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your Egg Roll in a Bowl. The combination of these ingredients is simply irresistible!
Step 4: Add the Coleslaw Mix
Now, stir in the coleslaw mix along with the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha if you’re feeling adventurous. Cook everything together for another 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch. This is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Final Touches
Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the sliced green onions for a fresh finish. Serve your Egg Roll in a Bowl hot, garnished with sesame seeds for that extra flair. Enjoy every bite of this quick and tasty dinner delight!
Tips for Success
Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Don’t skip the sesame oil; it’s essential for that authentic flavor.
Feel free to adjust the sriracha to your heat preference—start small!
For extra crunch, add some chopped water chestnuts or bell peppers.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days—perfect for lunch!
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Spatula: A wooden or silicone spatula is perfect for breaking up the meat.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping your veggies.
Measuring Spoons: Handy for measuring out sauces and oils.
Variations
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add more sriracha or toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra spicy version.
Colorful Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and vibrant colors.
Low Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
Gluten-Free: Opt for tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Egg Roll in a Bowl with steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Serve with a side of crispy spring rolls for that authentic touch.
For drinks, try a refreshing iced green tea or a light Asian beer.
Garnish with extra green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Egg Roll in a Bowl
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Egg Roll in a Bowl, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you along the way.
Can I make Egg Roll in a Bowl ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
What can I substitute for ground pork?
If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, crumbled tofu or tempeh is a fantastic choice that still packs a protein punch.
Is Egg Roll in a Bowl suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. Just remember to keep the garnishes separate until you’re ready to eat.
Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to add more sriracha or even some chopped jalapeños. You can also sprinkle in red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick!
Final Thoughts
Cooking Egg Roll in a Bowl is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy amidst the chaos of daily life. This dish brings together vibrant flavors and comforting textures, making it a delightful experience for both the cook and the family. I love how it transforms a simple weeknight dinner into something special, all while being quick and easy. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or savoring leftovers for lunch, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Give it a try, and let the deliciousness unfold!
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick and tasty dinner delight that combines the flavors of traditional egg rolls without the wrapper.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground pork (or ground turkey)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
2 green onions, sliced
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium heat.
Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the coleslaw mix, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Remove from heat and stir in the sliced green onions.
Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh.
Add additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition.