The irresistible flavors of a classic egg roll come together in this easy, deconstructed version—Egg Roll in a Bowl! Packed with juicy ground pork, fragrant garlic and ginger, and crunchy cabbage, this dish is a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and umami. It’s a quick and healthy one-pan meal that satisfies cravings without the extra carbs.
Perfect for meal prep or a fast weeknight dinner, this dish delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free lifestyle, this Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deliciously wholesome option that everyone will love. Serve it as is or over cauliflower rice for an extra filling meal!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for Paleo)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14 oz) bag coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and diced onion, cooking until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (5-7 minutes). Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), and black pepper. Stir well to coat the meat.
- Add the coleslaw mix and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens but remains slightly crisp.
- Remove from heat and stir in sliced green onions.
- Garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy as is or with cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Origins and Inspiration
The Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of the popular Asian-American egg roll, offering all the signature flavors of the dish without the deep-fried wrapper. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Chinese cuisine while being adapted for modern dietary preferences, including low-carb, keto, paleo, and gluten-free lifestyles.
Egg rolls have been a staple in Chinese-American restaurants for decades, often filled with pork, cabbage, and seasonings before being wrapped in a wheat-based shell and deep-fried. While delicious, the traditional egg roll is high in refined carbs and oils. This recipe eliminates the wrapper and frying process, creating a lighter, healthier, and quicker alternative while maintaining the same bold, umami-rich flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes and made in a single pan.
- Healthy Alternative: Low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with fiber-rich vegetables.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated for easy meals throughout the week.
- Customizable: Works well with different proteins (ground turkey, chicken, or beef), additional vegetables, or extra spice.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, keto, paleo, and Whole30-compliant with a simple swap of soy sauce for coconut aminos.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Get the Best Texture:
- Don’t overcook the cabbage; keeping it slightly crisp adds texture.
- For extra crunch, top with shredded carrots or crushed roasted peanuts.
- Boost the Flavor:
- Toasted sesame oil adds a rich, nutty aroma—a little goes a long way.
- A drizzle of sriracha or chili crisp can enhance the heat.
- Fresh lime juice gives a bright, zesty contrast.
- Make It Your Own:
- Swap ground pork for ground turkey, chicken, or shrimp.
- Add shiitake mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded zucchini for more vegetables.
- Stir in scrambled eggs or tofu for an extra protein boost.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the cabbage may become mushy after thawing.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
While Egg Roll in a Bowl is delicious on its own, here are a few ways to enhance your meal:
- Cauliflower Rice: Keeps it low-carb while adding a rice-like texture.
- Jasmine or Brown Rice: If you prefer a heartier option.
- Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the mixture into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, crunchy bite.
- Toppings: Garnish with crushed peanuts, extra sesame seeds, or avocado slices for added texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground meat for crumbled tofu, tempeh, or chopped mushrooms.
2. Is this recipe spicy?
Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili oil for extra heat.
3. Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep and reheats well. Store in the fridge and enjoy within 4 days.
Nutritional Benefits
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: The ground pork (or chicken/turkey) provides a rich source of protein, which helps build and maintain muscle.
- Low in Carbs: Unlike traditional egg rolls, this dish is keto-friendly and paleo-approved due to the absence of the wheat-based wrapper.
- Rich in Fiber: The cabbage and coleslaw mix add dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and keeping you full longer.
- Healthy Fats: The use of sesame oil provides a boost of heart-healthy fats, essential for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins.
- Gluten-Free: When made with coconut aminos or gluten-free soy sauce, this dish is completely free from gluten.
This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a wholesome yet satisfying meal that aligns with various dietary goals.
Flavor Profile & Seasoning Adjustments
The flavors in this dish come from a balance of savory umami, mild sweetness, and a hint of spicy heat. Here’s how you can tweak the seasoning to match your personal preference:
- For a Sweeter Taste: Add 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (for Paleo) to balance the umami flavors.
- For a Spicier Kick: Increase the amount of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or chili oil.
- For More Depth: A splash of fish sauce or hoisin sauce adds complexity (but note that hoisin contains sugar).
- For an Extra Tangy Flavor: Squeeze in fresh lime juice before serving to brighten up the dish.
Best Cooking Methods for the Perfect Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Stir-Fry Technique: Cook over medium-high heat to allow the pork to brown nicely, developing deeper flavors.
- Layering Flavors: Sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger first to build a flavorful base before adding the protein.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Keep the cabbage slightly crisp for the best texture—overcooking can make it mushy.
- Use a Wok for Authentic Flavor: Cooking in a hot wok mimics traditional Asian stir-fry techniques, giving the dish a more authentic taste.
Substitutions & Variations
Make It Vegetarian/Vegan:
- Replace the ground meat with tofu crumbles, tempeh, or jackfruit for a plant-based version.
- Add more mushrooms and bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
Make It Whole30 Compliant:
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Ensure your sriracha is free from added sugars.
Change Up the Protein:
- Swap pork for ground turkey, chicken, or beef depending on your preference.
- Use shrimp for a seafood variation.
Increase the Crunch Factor:
- Add a handful of crushed peanuts, slivered almonds, or crispy fried shallots.
- Top with a few strips of baked wonton wrappers for an extra crunch (if not following a low-carb diet).
Pairing Suggestions & Side Dishes
This Egg Roll in a Bowl is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:
- With Cauliflower Rice: To keep it low-carb while adding extra texture.
- With Jasmine or Brown Rice: For a heartier, more traditional meal.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Scoop the mixture into butter lettuce or romaine leaves for a fresh, handheld meal.
- With a Side of Asian-Inspired Pickled Vegetables: A simple carrot and daikon pickle or kimchi complements the dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores, making it a great meal-prep option!
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: While possible, freezing may change the texture of the cabbage. If freezing, store for up to 2 months and reheat gently.
- Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water to refresh the sauce.
Fun Facts About Egg Rolls
- Egg rolls are not originally from China! They were created in the United States as a Chinese-American dish, evolving from spring rolls.
- Why is it called an egg roll? The origins of the name are debated, but some believe early versions contained egg in the wrapper.
- In China, crispy rolls are more commonly spring rolls, which have thinner wrappers and are lighter in texture compared to the American egg roll.
Conclusion
This Egg Roll in a Bowl is a game-changer for anyone craving the bold, savory flavors of traditional egg rolls without the extra carbs, gluten, or deep-frying. It’s a quick and easy one-pan meal that fits seamlessly into a low-carb, keto, paleo, and gluten-free lifestyle, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
With its rich umami taste, tender yet crispy vegetables, and endless customization options, this dish is a healthy and satisfying alternative to takeout. Whether you serve it on its own, over cauliflower rice, or in lettuce wraps, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy a deliciously simple, nutritious meal that you’ll want to make again and again!