Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe: A Flavorful and Healthy Twist on a Classic
If you're a fan of egg rolls but want a healthier, low-carb alternative that's just as tasty, then you're in for a treat! This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a deconstructed version of the beloved Asian dish, featuring all the delicious flavors of an egg roll without the deep-fried wrapper. Packed with veggies, ground meat, and savory seasonings, this dish is quick to prepare, nutritious, and perfect for meal prepping. Stick around to discover how to make this delicious meal with easy-to-follow steps, helpful substitutions, and tips for perfecting your egg roll in a bowl!
What is "Egg Roll in a Bowl"?
"Egg Roll in a Bowl" is essentially a stir-fry version of a traditional egg roll without the crispy outer shell. It takes all the yummy ingredients found inside a typical egg roll—like ground meat, cabbage, carrots, and soy sauce—and turns them into a flavorful, hearty dish that's low in carbs and high in protein. It’s a perfect option for those who follow keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets, or anyone who just loves tasty, easy-to-make meals.
Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl
The great thing about this recipe is that it requires simple, easy-to-find ingredients, and you can adjust it to your taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground pork (or ground beef, turkey, or chicken)
- 4 cups green cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or shredded
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free option)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions and Variations
One of the beauties of this dish is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences. Here are a few substitutions and variations to consider:
- Ground Meat: Pork is traditional for egg rolls, but you can use ground chicken, beef, or turkey if you prefer a different flavor or are avoiding pork. You can even make this vegetarian by using tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.
- Vegetables: While cabbage and carrots are staples, feel free to add or swap other veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Use a coleslaw mix for a time-saving shortcut.
- Soy Sauce Substitute: If you're on a gluten-free diet, opt for tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. Both provide a similar salty, umami flavor without gluten.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat to your liking. If you prefer mild flavors, omit the sriracha or red pepper flakes. If you love spice, feel free to increase the amount or even add a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: To keep this dish low-carb, avoid adding sugar or sweetened sauces. Stick with fresh vegetables, protein, and minimal oil.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process! This recipe is simple and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the ground meat in the same skillet. Break the meat apart with a spatula or spoon, cooking it until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Sauté the vegetables with the meat until the cabbage softens, around 5-6 minutes. The cabbage should be wilted but still have a slight crunch to it.
- Pour in the soy sauce and rice vinegar and stir to combine all the flavors. If you're using sriracha or red pepper flakes, add them at this point for a spicy kick.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to absorb the sauce. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and garnish your egg roll in a bowl with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
How to Cook "Egg Roll in a Bowl": A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preparation: Start by prepping all your ingredients—dice the onion, mince the garlic and ginger, shred the cabbage and carrots, and gather your seasonings. This will ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat up your sesame oil, then add onion, garlic, and ginger. These are the core flavors that will give your dish that authentic egg roll taste.
- Cook the Meat: Add your choice of ground meat and cook it thoroughly. Be sure to break up the meat into small pieces so it evenly disperses throughout the dish.
- Add the Vegetables: Once your meat is fully browned, stir in the cabbage and carrots. These will bring color and crunch to your meal.
- Flavor it Up: The soy sauce and vinegar add depth to the dish, while the sesame oil brings that nutty flavor we all love. Add heat with sriracha if you're a spice lover.
- Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with sesame seeds and green onions for a pop of color and texture. Now you’re ready to serve!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Cabbage: The key to the perfect texture is keeping the cabbage slightly crisp. If overcooked, it becomes mushy, losing its pleasant crunch.
- Not Draining the Meat: If you’re using a fattier ground meat like pork, make sure to drain any excess grease after browning the meat. Too much grease can make the dish feel heavy.
- Skipping the Garnish: Green onions and sesame seeds aren’t just for looks—they add a fresh burst of flavor and crunch that complement the richness of the cooked ingredients.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When it comes to serving Egg Roll in a Bowl, think of it as a hearty, satisfying meal that looks just as good as it tastes. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, a little attention to presentation goes a long way.
- How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl: This dish is a meal on its own, but you can pair it with a side of steamed rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or a simple green salad. You could also serve it inside lettuce wraps for a fun twist!
- Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl: For a visually appealing dish, serve it in shallow bowls, allowing the colorful veggies and garnishes to shine. Sprinkle extra sesame seeds or drizzle a bit of sesame oil on top for that polished look. Serve with chopsticks for an authentic Asian-inspired experience.
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Simply divide it into containers, and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Double the Recipe: If you're cooking for a family or want leftovers, consider doubling the recipe. It’s just as easy to cook in a larger batch, and you'll thank yourself later when you have quick meals ready to go.
- Reheat Gently: To maintain the texture of the vegetables, reheat the egg roll in a bowl on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Egg Roll in a Bowl vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply swap out the ground meat for tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables to make it even more filling.
Q: How long will Egg Roll in a Bowl last in the fridge?
A: It can last up to 4 days in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s perfect for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.
Q: Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
A: Yes! This dish freezes well. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?
A: You can add or substitute vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas to mix things up and add more color and texture to your dish.
Q: Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low-carb and high in protein, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet. Just be sure to use a low-carb soy sauce alternative like coconut aminos if needed.
Conclusion
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick, delicious, and healthy alternative to traditional egg rolls, offering all the flavors you love without the extra carbs and calories. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you're looking for a low-carb meal, something to fit your keto diet, or just a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and enjoy the savory, crunchy goodness with every bite!
PrintEgg Roll In A Bowl Recipe
Enjoy a quick and healthy version of a classic takeout favorite with this Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe. Packed with ground pork, cabbage, and carrots, this dish offers all the flavors of an egg roll without the added carbs. Perfect for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground pork until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add shredded cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Stir well to combine.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Remove from heat, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and serve.
Notes
- For a keto-friendly version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- You can substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner option.
- Serve as-is or over cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700 mg
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