Egg Roll Soup is a creative twist on the classic egg roll, transforming its essential ingredients into a comforting and flavorful soup. This dish offers all the delicious flavors of an egg roll in a warm, hearty bowl, making it a perfect meal for cold weather or any time you’re craving something savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground pork: The base of the soup, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and ground pork, adding depth to the dish.
- 1 yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and savory foundation to the soup.
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and color.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the soup a fragrant, aromatic base.
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated: Fresh ginger adds a warm, slightly spicy note that pairs well with the pork.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sesame oil: Adds a nutty, toasty flavor that’s essential in many Asian-inspired dishes.
- 1 small green cabbage, thinly sliced: This is the main vegetable component, giving the soup its egg roll essence.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth: The broth serves as the soup’s base, providing a savory backdrop for the other ingredients.
- 1/3 cup green onion, finely chopped, plus more for garnish: Green onions add freshness and a mild, sharp flavor to the soup.
Instructions
- Brown the Pork:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the cooked pork to a plate, leaving any rendered fat in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the finely chopped yellow onion and carrots.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage:
- Stir in the thinly sliced cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 3-4 minutes.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season the Soup:
- Add the cooked ground pork back into the pot, along with the sesame oil.
- Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes to warm the pork through.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional finely chopped green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this deconstructed egg roll.
Tips and Variations
- Customize the Protein: While ground pork is traditional, you can substitute ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a lighter version.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to give the soup a bit of heat.
- Add Crunch: Top each bowl with crispy wonton strips or fried egg roll wrappers for an added crunchy texture.
- Make it Heartier: For a more filling meal, stir in cooked rice or noodles just before serving.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the pork and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh for extra protein.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving. If freezing, leave out the cabbage and add it fresh when reheating to avoid it becoming overly soft.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 280 per serving
- Total Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 20g
Egg Roll Soup is not just a meal, but an experience. It captures the essence of a beloved takeout dish and turns it into a nourishing and comforting soup that you can enjoy any time. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the delightful flavors and warmth that this dish brings to your table!
