Egg Roll In A Bowl Recipe

If you love the flavors of traditional egg rolls but want a healthier, low-carb option that skips the deep frying, you're going to love this Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe. It captures all the savory, satisfying flavors you expect, but in a quick and easy skillet meal! Whether you’re following a keto diet, or just looking for a nutritious dinner idea, this dish is perfect for you. Keep reading to discover how to make this delightful, nutrient-packed meal in under 30 minutes. You won’t want to miss these tips, substitutions, and variations to make it your own!

What is "Egg Roll in a Bowl"?

Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of a classic egg roll. Instead of wrapping the flavorful filling inside a fried shell, this dish focuses on the stir-fry mixture inside. It’s made of ground meat, cabbage, carrots, and a flavorful combination of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. This dish is packed with all the taste and texture of an egg roll, minus the carbs and the frying oil. It's perfect for meal prep, quick dinners, or when you’re craving something healthy and hearty.

Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground pork (or any ground meat of your choice)
• 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
• 1 large carrot, shredded
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any neutral oil for cooking)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Ingredients List for Variations and Substitutions

While the classic ingredients for Egg Roll in a Bowl are delicious as is, you can modify it based on your dietary needs or flavor preferences. Here’s a list of variations and possible substitutions:

• Ground chicken, turkey, or beef instead of pork: If you don’t eat pork or want a leaner option, ground chicken or turkey works perfectly. Ground beef can also be used for a richer flavor.
• Shredded broccoli slaw instead of cabbage: For a crunchier texture or different nutritional profile, consider using shredded broccoli slaw or a combination of both.
• Coconut aminos instead of soy sauce: For a soy-free and paleo-friendly version, use coconut aminos, which are slightly sweeter but work great in this dish.
• Sriracha or chili garlic sauce: If you love heat, add a drizzle of sriracha or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce during the cooking process.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the ground meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• Tamari for a gluten-free version: Make sure to use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce to make the dish gluten-free.

Substitutions and Variations

This versatile recipe is perfect for customization! Here are some ideas to make the dish your own:

1. Add more veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can add extra texture and flavor. Simply chop them and toss them in with the cabbage.
2. Use ground turkey or chicken: Opt for leaner proteins to lighten the dish. Both turkey and chicken make great substitutes for pork.
3. Make it spicier: If you like it hot, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dollop of your favorite hot sauce.
4. Keto-friendly variation: The original recipe is already low in carbs, but you can further reduce the carbs by eliminating the carrot and adding more green, non-starchy vegetables.
5. Vegetarian egg roll in a bowl: Swap the meat for tofu, tempeh, or mushrooms. You can also bulk up the meal with more veggies and add a protein-rich topping like a fried egg.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Egg Roll in a Bowl in just a few simple steps:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Begin by prepping your veggies. Shred the cabbage, carrots, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic and ginger. If you’re using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix, this step will be even quicker!
2. Cook the ground meat: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the olive oil and then add your ground pork (or meat of choice). Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Push the cooked meat to the side of the pan and add sesame oil to the empty side. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and diced onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the cabbage is wilted but still slightly crunchy.
5. Season: Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together so the flavors meld well.
6. Cook a few more minutes: Let everything cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cabbage is fully tender and the flavors are combined.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

Cooking Egg Roll in a Bowl is incredibly easy. To break it down:

1. Brown the meat: Cook your ground meat until it’s golden and crispy, ensuring all the fat is rendered for maximum flavor.
2. Add aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and onions should be lightly sautéed until they release their fragrance and soften.
3. Add vegetables: Cabbage and carrots provide the bulk of the dish, bringing both texture and nutrients.
4. Season generously: Soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar create a savory, slightly tangy, umami-packed sauce that ties the dish together.
5. Finish with garnishes: Don’t forget green onions and sesame seeds for that signature egg roll flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the cabbage: Cabbage should remain slightly crisp for the best texture. Don’t let it cook too long or it will become mushy.
2. Using too much oil: The meat will release some fat as it cooks, so you don’t need a lot of extra oil in the pan. Use it sparingly.
3. Forgetting to season properly: This dish relies on the balance of savory and tangy flavors, so make sure to adjust the seasonings to taste.
4. Not draining excess fat: If your meat releases a lot of fat, drain it before adding your veggies to avoid an overly greasy dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

For a beautifully presented Egg Roll in a Bowl, follow these tips:

1. Use a shallow bowl: This allows the vibrant colors of the cabbage and carrots to shine.
2. Top with garnishes: Fresh green onions and sesame seeds not only add flavor but make the dish look more appetizing.
3. Pair with a side: For a fuller meal, serve it over cauliflower rice or with a side of crispy wonton strips (if you’re not low-carb).

How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl

Serve this dish hot as a main course. It’s perfect on its own but also pairs well with:

• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
• Steamed jasmine rice for those who want more carbs
• Quinoa for a protein-rich alternative
• Noodles (like shirataki or zucchini noodles) for a fun twist

Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl

• Layered in glass bowls: Showcase the vibrant colors by layering the ingredients in clear bowls or jars.
• Served with chopsticks: For a fun and interactive experience, serve the dish with chopsticks.
• Family-style platter: Present it on a large serving platter, topped with garnishes, and let everyone dig in.

Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips

1. Meal prep friendly: This recipe stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days, making it ideal for meal prepping.
2. Double the recipe: This dish freezes well, so feel free to double it and freeze half for a quick future meal.
3. Adjust the seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust the soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to suit your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes! Simply replace the meat with tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies like mushrooms.
2. Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly?
   Absolutely. It’s naturally low in carbs, and you can skip the carrot if you want to lower the carb count even further.
3. Can I use pre-shredded veggies?
   Definitely! Using a pre-shredded coleslaw mix saves time and works just as well.
4. Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
   Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. How long does it last in the fridge?
   It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a great meal prep option.

Conclusion

Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect recipe for anyone who loves the taste of egg rolls but wants a quicker, healthier alternative. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a delicious weeknight meal, this dish checks all the boxes. With endless variations, it’s easy to customize to your taste preferences. Try it tonight and see why it’s become a favorite for so many!

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