Egg Roll In A Bowl Recipe

Looking for a low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Look no further than the ever-popular Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe. It's a deconstructed version of the traditional egg roll but without the deep-fried wrapper, making it a healthier and faster option to prepare. This dish is loaded with savory ingredients like ground pork, crisp vegetables, and a delicious soy-ginger sauce. Keep reading to learn how to create this irresistible meal with simple ingredients and easy steps that you can follow, even if you're new to the kitchen!

this Recipe

What is "Egg Roll in a Bowl"?

"Egg Roll in a Bowl" is a simplified, healthier version of the beloved egg roll, but without the deep-fried exterior. It brings together the same flavors and ingredients you'd find in an egg roll filling, but it’s served as a one-pan stir-fry. With its savory pork, crunchy cabbage, and a punchy soy-ginger sauce, it's a flavorful, satisfying meal that can be on the table in under 30 minutes. Best of all, it’s low in carbs and perfect for those following keto or paleo diets!

Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl

To make a delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl, you'll need the following basic ingredients. These are pantry-friendly and can easily be swapped for alternatives if needed:

• 1 pound ground pork (or substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 4 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix (for that classic egg roll crunch)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce (optional for heat)
• 2-3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional garnish)

Optional Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl

Want to add some extra flair to your Egg Roll in a Bowl? Here are some optional ingredients you can include to elevate the flavor:

• Mushrooms: Adds a meaty texture and umami flavor.
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or shredded for color and natural sweetness.
• Red bell pepper: For crunch and a pop of vibrant color.
• Water chestnuts: For extra texture.
• Bamboo shoots: To add a classic Asian touch.
• Toasted peanuts or cashews: For crunch and richness.
• Chili flakes: For an extra kick of heat.

Substitutions and Variations

The beauty of Egg Roll in a Bowl lies in its flexibility. You can easily substitute ingredients or add variations based on your preferences or dietary needs:

• Meat Substitutes: Ground pork is the traditional choice, but ground turkey, chicken, or even beef work well too. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute.
• Cabbage Alternatives: While cabbage is the star vegetable in this dish, you can use Brussels sprouts, bok choy, or even kale if you’re looking to switch it up.
• Sauce Variations: Swap the soy sauce for coconut aminos for a soy-free and gluten-free alternative. You can also play with the heat level by adding more or less Sriracha, or leave it out entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Low-Sodium Option: For a lower sodium version, opt for reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
• Add More Veggies: This dish is a great way to clean out your fridge. Add zucchini, spinach, or snap peas for extra nutrition and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your Egg Roll in a Bowl a success:

1. Cook the Pork: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add ground pork (or your choice of protein) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Add Aromatics: Once the pork is fully cooked, push it to the side of the skillet. In the same pan, add sesame oil, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix). Stir everything together and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to wilt but still retains some crunch.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha (if using). Pour this mixture over the pork and vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Simmer: Allow everything to cook together for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld.
6. Garnish: Turn off the heat and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a nice finishing touch.

How to Cook Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you need more details, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to cook this meal with extra tips:

1. Brown the Meat: When cooking the ground pork (or your preferred protein), be sure to break it up into small crumbles using a spatula or wooden spoon. This ensures it cooks evenly and gets nicely browned.
2. Boost the Flavor with Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and grated ginger add so much depth to this dish. Sautéing them in the fat from the pork (or a little sesame oil) before adding the vegetables helps release their flavors.
3. Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: The cabbage (or coleslaw mix) should remain slightly crisp for the best texture. Avoid overcooking it to the point where it becomes too soft or mushy.
4. Adjust to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and sauce to your taste. Add more soy sauce if you prefer it saltier, or increase the Sriracha for a spicier kick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Egg Roll in a Bowl turns out perfect every time, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the Cabbage: One of the best things about this dish is the texture contrast. Don’t cook the cabbage until it’s mushy—aim for a slight crunch.
• Not Draining the Fat: Depending on the fat content of your meat, you may need to drain some of the grease to avoid a greasy final dish.
• Skipping the Aromatics: Garlic and ginger are essential for that authentic egg roll flavor. Don’t skip them, and use fresh ingredients if possible for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Now that your Egg Roll in a Bowl is ready, it's time to think about how to serve and present it. This dish is super versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other sides.

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl

• On Its Own: Since this is a low-carb dish, many people enjoy it as a complete meal. It’s flavorful, filling, and full of vegetables and protein.
• With Cauliflower Rice: For an even more filling, low-carb meal, serve it over cauliflower rice. This also adds more fiber and veggies to your plate.
• With White or Brown Rice: If you're not following a low-carb diet, you can serve it over steamed white or brown rice for a more traditional meal.
• As a Wrap: Spoon the mixture into large lettuce leaves for a healthy, low-carb wrap.

Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl

• Garnish with Green Onions and Sesame Seeds: For a pop of color and texture, garnish your bowl with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
• Use a Large Serving Bowl: Serve the dish family-style in a large bowl or platter. This way, everyone can help themselves and customize their portions.
• Add Chili Oil Drizzle: For a vibrant finish, drizzle a little chili oil or extra sesame oil on top before serving.

Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips

• Make It Ahead: This dish is great for meal prepping. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors deepen as it sits.
• Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so over medium heat to avoid overcooking the vegetables.
• Double the Recipe: If you're cooking for a crowd, simply double the recipe. Just make sure you use a large enough skillet or wok to accommodate everything.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use pre-packaged coleslaw mix? A: Absolutely! Using a bagged coleslaw mix is a convenient way to save time and effort without sacrificing flavor.

Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes, Egg Roll in a Bowl is naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto lifestyle, especially if served without rice.

Q: Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl? A: While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked mixture. However, the vegetables might lose some of their crunch when reheated.

Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian? A: Simply replace the ground pork with tofu or another plant-based protein. The flavors will still be delicious!

Conclusion

Egg Roll in a Bowl is a healthy, fast, and incredibly satisfying dish that captures all the flavors of a traditional egg roll without the extra carbs or fuss. With minimal ingredients and a simple cooking process, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. Give it a try and customize it to your tastes—you’ll soon have a new go-to meal in your recipe rotation!

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