If you love the flavors of a classic egg roll but want something quick, low-carb, and without the hassle of wrapping, you are going to adore this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe. It captures every delicious note of the original appetizer—savory pork, crunchy cabbage, garlic punch, and that perfect soy-sesame sauce—without any frying or extra carbs. In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a vibrant, satisfying meal that feels like comfort food but comes together faster than you’d expect. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a total winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe come alive, you don’t need a long list of ingredients, just simple staples that bring bold flavor and wonderful texture. Each component plays a key role, from the juicy ground pork to the crisp coleslaw mix that gives that lovely crunch and volume.
- Vegetable oil: Used to sear the meat and develop delicious browning without overpowering flavors.
- Ground pork: The star protein that adds richness and a meaty base; chicken or beef also works well.
- Small onion: Thinly sliced for a subtle sweetness and added texture as it softens.
- Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the dish with aromatic warmth and depth.
- Bag of coleslaw mix: This shredded cabbage blend is the perfect crunchy veggie, quick to cook and chock-full of color.
- Soy sauce: The salty, umami backbone of the dish, bringing all the flavors together perfectly.
- Toasted sesame oil: Just a touch adds incredible nutty aroma and richness.
- Sugar: Balances the savoriness with a subtle hint of sweetness for harmony.
- Green onions: Optional garnish that adds freshness and a pop of color at the end.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pork
Start by heating your pan over medium-high heat and adding the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the ground pork and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart into small pieces as it browns evenly. This step is where the dish builds its savory foundation, so getting a nice caramelization on the meat is key to that irresistible flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, stir in the thinly sliced onion and minced garlic. Cook them together with the pork for a couple more minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent, releasing their natural sweetness and blending seamlessly with the meat’s richness.
Step 3: Add the Coleslaw Mix
Toss in the coleslaw mix and continue cooking, stirring frequently. The cabbage will soften while still retaining just enough crunch to keep things interesting. If your pan releases extra moisture during this step, crank up the heat a bit to help it evaporate and keep your dish from getting soggy.
Step 4: Season It Up
Now comes the magic touch. Add the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and sugar to the pan. Stir everything together well, letting the flavors meld as the sauce thickens slightly and envelopes the meat and veggies in its savory-sweet goodness.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Remove your Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe from the heat, and if you like, sprinkle with fresh green onions for an inviting burst of color and mild onion flavor. This final flourish makes the dish feel complete and ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions are a classic and easy way to finish off the dish, but you can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch or a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like cilantro add a refreshing twist if you want to experiment.
Side Dishes
This recipe works well as a standalone meal given its balance of protein and veggies, but if you want a little more on the side, steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice are fantastic options. A simple miso soup or quick cucumber salad also pairs beautifully, rounding out an Asian-inspired dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
To change things up, serve the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe over lettuce leaves for a DIY wrap experience, or use it as a filling in warm tortillas for a playful fusion taco. You can even top a baked sweet potato for a hearty, nourishing bowl that’s as fun as it is tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers should be cooled completely, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe keeps really well for up to 3 days, making it a great candidate for quick lunches or extra dinners during busy weeks.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish well in advance, it freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. When properly stored, it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For the best flavor, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the pork juicy and the cabbage crisp. You can also microwave it, but be sure to stir occasionally to avoid hot spots and dryness.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are fantastic leaner alternatives that still soak up the flavors beautifully. Just be mindful to cook them thoroughly and adjust seasoning to your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe can be gluten-free if you choose tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Regular soy sauce usually contains wheat, so swapping it out is key for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I add other vegetables to the bowl?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even baby spinach to sneak in extra nutrients and color. Just add them in with the coleslaw so they cook along evenly.
How spicy is Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe?
The basic recipe is mild and friendly for most palates. If you love heat, adding a dash of chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce is an easy way to turn up the spice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap the ground pork for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat substitute, and use a soy sauce that fits your dietary needs. The flavors still come through deliciously.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe has quickly become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m excited for you to give it a try. It takes all the things we love about egg rolls and transforms them into a tasty, fuss-free, family-friendly dish that fits right into busy schedules. Once you see how easy it is to make and enjoy, it might just become your new go-to meal as well!
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Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick and flavorful skillet dish that captures the classic taste of an egg roll without the wrapper. Ground pork, cabbage, and aromatic seasonings come together in a sautéed mixture, making it a perfect low-carb, gluten-free meal that’s ready in just 20 minutes.
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound ground pork (or chicken or beef)
Vegetables
- 1/2 small onion (thinly sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage)
- 1 tablespoon green onions (optional for garnish)
Oils and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3–4 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Others
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large pan over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to coat the surface.
- Cook the Pork: Add the ground pork to the pan and cook, stirring and breaking into small pieces with a spatula, until no longer pink, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the thinly sliced onions and minced garlic to the pork and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Cook the Cabbage: Mix in the coleslaw mix or shredded cabbage, stirring frequently and cooking for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage softens. If there is excess moisture, increase the heat to high to evaporate it faster.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and sugar. Combine thoroughly and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pan from heat and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your easy egg roll in a bowl!
Notes
- Ground chicken or beef can be used instead of pork if preferred.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to taste, especially if you want a lower sodium option.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or sriracha during the seasoning step.
- Using a bagged coleslaw mix saves prep time but shredded cabbage works just as well.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the soy sauce used is gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free