Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick and easy dish that brings all the delicious flavors of an egg roll without the need for frying. This recipe is perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free, or keto-friendly meal, and it’s packed with protein, vegetables, and savory seasonings. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own Egg Roll in a Bowl at home.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork (or ground beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 small green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Sriracha or hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
- In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground pork (or your choice of ground meat) to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 7-8 minutes.
- Season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove it from the skillet and set it aside, leaving some of the rendered fat in the skillet.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all the flavors.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the meat and vegetables evenly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped green onions.
- Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve the Egg Roll in a Bowl hot, with a drizzle of Sriracha or hot sauce on top for an extra kick.
Cook’s Notes
- Ground Meat: Ground pork is traditional, but ground beef, chicken, or turkey can be used depending on your preference.
- Cabbage: Green cabbage is standard, but you can use napa cabbage or a mix of cabbage varieties for added texture.
- Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor to the dish; however, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil if you prefer a milder taste.
Variations
Vegetarian Egg Roll in a Bowl
Replace the ground meat with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Spicy Egg Roll in a Bowl
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes and add a tablespoon of chili paste or Sriracha to the sauce for a spicier dish.
Low-Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl
Skip the carrots and use more cabbage or add other low-carb vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli.
Peanut Butter Egg Roll in a Bowl
Stir in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter with the soy sauce for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the savory ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Egg Roll in a Bowl is a great meal prep option. Cook the dish as directed, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
3. Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl?
This dish is great on its own, but you can also serve it with cauliflower rice, regular rice, or noodles for a more substantial meal.
5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms to the mix for added texture and flavor.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a flavorful, healthy, and quick meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its savory ground meat, tender cabbage, and aromatic seasonings, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for takeout in a much lighter way. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, this meal is easy to make and full of flavor. Enjoy your Egg Roll in a Bowl!
