ULTIMATE EGG ROLL IN A BOWL

I remember the first time I ever had an egg roll; it was at a little street fair, and I was mesmerized by the crispy shell and savory filling. While I love the traditional version, sometimes I crave that flavor without all the fuss (and the deep frying!). That’s where this amazing Egg Roll In A Bowl recipe comes in – it captures all the deliciousness of an egg roll in a quick, easy, and healthy one-bowl meal that I promise you’ll absolutely adore.

Deconstructing Deliciousness: What is Egg Roll In A Bowl?

Let’s face it, we all love the satisfying crunch and flavorful filling of egg rolls, but making them from scratch can be a bit of a project. Egg Roll In A Bowl is essentially all the good stuff *inside* an egg roll, without the wrapper. It’s a deconstructed version that’s faster to prepare, healthier (since it’s not deep-fried), and just as satisfying. Think of it as a complete meal packed with protein, veggies, and incredible flavor – perfect for busy weeknights!

Why This Recipe is a Weeknight Winner

I’ve made a lot of variations of this recipe over the years, tweaking it until it’s absolutely perfect. Here’s why I think you’ll love it:

• Speed & Simplicity: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver when you’re short on time.
• Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with lean protein and tons of vegetables, it’s a guilt-free way to enjoy a flavorful meal. It’s also easily adaptable to various dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are generally affordable and readily available.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win!

The Secret to the Best Egg Roll In A Bowl: Ingredient Breakdown

Let’s talk ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will significantly impact the final flavor, so choose wisely!

• Ground Meat: I typically use ground pork or turkey, but ground chicken or even beef works well too. For a vegetarian option, consider using crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat.
• Cabbage: The heart of our egg roll! I prefer using shredded green cabbage, but you can also use a coleslaw mix for added convenience.
• Carrots: Adds sweetness and a vibrant color. Shredded carrots are easiest, but you can also dice them finely.
• Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics for a flavorful base.
• Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a warm, spicy kick that elevates the dish.
• Soy Sauce (or Tamari): Provides the umami flavor. Use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty aroma and flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy balance to the savory flavors.
• Sriracha (Optional): For a touch of heat!
• Toppings: Sesame seeds, green onions, and crispy wonton strips (optional) add texture and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step: Mastering the Egg Roll In A Bowl Technique

Ready to get cooking? Here’s a detailed guide to making the perfect Egg Roll In A Bowl:

1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet or wok, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease. This is a crucial step for developing flavor, so don’t rush it!
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Add the Veggies: Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcook the cabbage, you want it to retain some crunch.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using).
5. Combine & Simmer: Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Serve & Garnish: Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, and crispy wonton strips (if using).

Tips & Tricks for Egg Roll In A Bowl Perfection

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Egg Roll In A Bowl is a resounding success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a large batch, cook the meat and vegetables in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding can lower the temperature and prevent browning.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Make it Ahead: This dish is great for meal prepping! You can cook it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like chopped peanuts, bean sprouts, or a drizzle of hoisin sauce.

Variations to Keep Things Exciting

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few variations to try:

• Shrimp Egg Roll In A Bowl: Substitute the ground meat with cooked shrimp.
• Vegetarian Egg Roll In A Bowl: Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or water chestnuts.
• Spicy Peanut Egg Roll In A Bowl: Add a tablespoon of peanut butter and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Keto Egg Roll In A Bowl: Omit the carrots or use a very small amount. Focus on low-carb vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions: Completing the Meal

While Egg Roll In A Bowl is a complete meal on its own, here are a few serving suggestions to round out your dinner:

• Cauliflower Rice: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Brown Rice: Serve over brown rice for a heartier meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Add a side of steamed broccoli for extra vegetables.
• Asian-Inspired Salad: Pair it with a simple Asian-inspired salad with a sesame ginger dressing.

Egg Roll In A Bowl: A Delicious Solution for Dietary Needs

This recipe seamlessly fits into various dietary lifestyles. Looking for Gluten Free Dinners Easy Healthy? Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. It’s also a fantastic option for those seeking Dinner Ideas Cabbage, offering a flavorful and exciting way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. And for busy individuals or couples, it’s a go-to for Healthy Weeknight Meals For Two, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal without hours in the kitchen.

Exploring Similar Flavor Profiles

If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also like these other quick and easy dishes. For another cabbage-centric dish, try a Sausage And Cabbage Stir Fry. Craving Asian-inspired flavors? The Thai Chicken Cabbage Skillet is another fantastic option. And if you’re in the mood for soup, the Thai Soup is a must-try. You could also enjoy Chicken Zucchini Stir Fry. The Egg Roll In A Bowl is a standout that you will keep going back to!

Storing and Reheating Your Culinary Creation

Leftovers are your friend! Store your Egg Roll In A Bowl in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you have a few options:

• Microwave: This is the quickest method. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

While freezing is possible, the texture of the cabbage may change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, be sure to use an airtight container and consume within 2-3 months.

Cabbage Rolls Bowl: A Close Cousin

If you love the concept of deconstructed dishes, you might also enjoy a Cabbage Rolls Bowl. This dish takes all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls – ground meat, rice, tomatoes, and spices – and combines them in a bowl for a quick and easy meal. It’s another great way to enjoy cabbage in a flavorful and satisfying way.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Egg Roll In A Bowl Revolution

So there you have it! My ultimate guide to making the perfect Egg Roll In A Bowl. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and discover the joy of quick, healthy, and delicious meals. Remember, cooking should be fun, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

ULTIMATE EGG ROLL IN A BOWL

Alice Yowell

This Ultimate Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe captures all the deliciousness of a traditional egg roll without the wrapper. It’s a quick, easy, and healthy one-bowl meal packed with protein, veggies, and incredible flavor, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian

Servings 4

Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

• Large Skillet or Wok
• Spoon
• Small bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound ground pork or turkey
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, freshly grated
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sriracha optional
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
• Crispy wonton strips, for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• In a large skillet or wok, brown the ground meat over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using).
• Pour the sauce over the cabbage mixture and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
• Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds, green onions, and crispy wonton strips (if using).

Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the meat. Adjust sweetness with honey or maple syrup. Spice it up with more sriracha or red pepper flakes. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Experiment with different toppings like chopped peanuts, bean sprouts, or a drizzle of hoisin sauce. For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.