There’s something profoundly joyful about recreating the flavors of your favorite takeout dish right in your own kitchen. I remember the first time I encountered the concept of "Egg Roll in a Bowl." It was during a casual dinner party with friends, the kind where everyone brings a dish and we all gather around the table, swapping stories and savouring food. Someone had made this deconstructed egg roll masterpiece, and as I scooped up a bite—crunchy cabbage, tender pork, and a drizzle of soy sauce—I felt like the traditional takeout experience was forever changed.
Not only was it packed with flavor, but it also had a delightful nod to the classic egg roll we all know and love. The best part? It takes just one skillet and can be whipped up in a matter of minutes! Whether you’re busy or just looking for a fun and easy dish to wow your family and friends, this is the recipe for you.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 15 minutes
- Total Duration: 25 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 320
- Protein: 22 grams
- Carbs: 12 grams
- Fats: 20 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Sugars: 5 grams
- Sodium: 680 mg
Why You’ll Love This Egg Roll in a Bowl
This Egg Roll in a Bowl is everything you love about the classic egg roll without the fuss of deep frying and wrapping. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner packed with protein, fiber, and a rainbow of veggies. Plus, it’s highly customizable—go ahead and throw in your favorite vegetables or swap the ground pork for chicken or tofu based on your dietary preferences. It’s also a fantastic way to get your veggies in, making it a nutritious option that feels indulgent!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Let’s embark on this culinary adventure that promises big flavors with a few simple steps. You just need a large skillet and some fresh ingredients to craft this weeknight wonder.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Method:
### Step 1: Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. This fragrant oil will be our base and adds a wonderful nuttiness to the dish.
### Step 2: Brown the Pork
Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. You’ll want to hear that sizzle, which means you’re on the right path to developing amazing flavors!
### Step 3: Aromatics in Action
Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant. This step is crucial; it’s where your kitchen will awaken with those delightful, comforting smells.
### Step 4: Veggie Time
Add the shredded carrots and coleslaw mix, stirring to combine and cooking until the vegetables are tender. The vibrant colors of the carrots and cabbage make this dish as beautiful to look at as it is to eat.
### Step 5: The Flavor Boost
Pour in the soy sauce, stirring to incorporate all ingredients. This will give everything a lovely sheen and enhance those savory flavors!
### Step 6: Season to Perfection
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add, but you can’t take back, so start with a little and adjust to your preference.
### Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds that extra touch of flavor and flair, making your dish look as good as it tastes!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Egg Roll in a Bowl is delicious on its own, but consider serving it alongside steamed jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. A refreshing cucumber salad with a light dressing pairs beautifully, balancing the savory flavors of the bowl. If you’re feeling adventurous, whip up a batch of homemade spring rolls for a fun appetizer!
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you have leftovers (if you can manage that!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to revive the lovely texture.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The fresher the ingredients, the better the flavors.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re doubling this recipe, do it in batches for better browning.
- Customize to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to add different vegetables or proteins based on what you have at home!
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feeling spicy? Add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes to the pork mixture! For a vegetarian version, replace the ground pork with crumbled tofu or tempeh. You may also introduce bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra volume and flavor.
Reader Questions & Solutions
-
Can I use something other than pork?
Yes! Ground chicken, ground turkey, or tofu make great substitutes. -
How can I make this dish plant-based?
Simply swap the ground pork for crumbled tofu and use a vegan soy sauce. -
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
You can use olive oil instead, but the nutty flavor will be less pronounced. -
Can I freeze leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Yes! Freeze it in an airtight container for up to two months. Freeze before adding green onions and sesame seeds for the best texture. -
What should I do if it tastes bland?
Always taste before serving! Adjust any seasonings, and try adding a splash more soy sauce or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Wrapping Up
Now that you have this quick and easy Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the delicious aromas fill your home. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a warm, comforting meal. I hope it brings you as much joy as it has to me! Happy cooking! 🌟
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A deconstructed egg roll packed with flavor, using ground pork and fresh vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground pork to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
- Add the shredded carrots and coleslaw mix, stirring to combine and cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour in the soy sauce, stirring to incorporate all ingredients.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
Customize with your favorite vegetables or swap ground pork for chicken or tofu. Perfect with steamed jasmine or cauliflower rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
