Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a brilliantly simple, deconstructed take on the beloved Asian-inspired classic egg roll. Instead of being wrapped and deep-fried, all the signature fillings like ground pork or turkey, crisp cabbage, shredded carrots, and savory Asian flavors are stir-fried together in one bowl.
This dish delivers the familiar tastes and textures of a traditional egg roll while saving you time and unnecessary calories. The Egg Roll in a Bowl concept emerged from low-carb and Paleo communities seeking ways to enjoy their favorite takeout flavors without unhealthy oils or added carbs.
Today, it's a staple for anyone seeking a balanced, high-protein, and quick weeknight dinner. Not only is Egg Roll in a Bowl packed with taste, but it's also customizable to suit personal preferences.
Whether you follow a gluten-free, keto, paleo, or Whole30 lifestyle or just want a fast, satisfying meal, Egg Roll in a Bowl is for you. Its popularity lies in being both healthy and comforting, while still being versatile enough for a variety of diets.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn how to make Egg Roll in a Bowl, the key ingredients, nutrition facts, serving tips, and answers to common questions, ensuring you can create this dish effortlessly at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground turkey/chicken as desired)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 5 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 2 cups shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons sriracha or chili garlic sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of oil, as needed
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Add the ground pork (or chosen meat) and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until fully browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the pan. Stir well to combine with the meat and aromatics.
- Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), and black pepper. Mix thoroughly so the vegetables and meat are evenly coated.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more soy sauce or sriracha if desired.
- Remove from heat. Scatter sliced green onions and sesame seeds on top for garnish.
- Serve hot, directly in bowls. Enjoy immediately or store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Nutritional Information
Egg Roll in a Bowl is an excellent choice for those seeking a healthier meal option without sacrificing flavor. One serving (about one-fourth of the prepared recipe) provides approximately 250-300 calories, making it suitable for weight management or light dinners.
The dish is naturally high in protein, with an average of 20-25 grams per serving depending on the meat used, supporting muscle health and satiety.
The abundant cabbage and carrots supply essential vitamins like vitamin C, vitamin K, and beta-carotene, while also providing dietary fiber—aiding in digestion and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Sesame oil and optional toasted sesame seeds add healthy fats, which help in nutrient absorption and contribute a satisfying mouthfeel.
Unlike traditional egg rolls that are deep-fried and often high in sodium, this version controls both fat and sodium by using lean meats and low-sodium soy sauce. If you choose ground turkey or chicken, the fat content is even lower.
The lack of fried wrappers drastically reduces carbohydrates, making Egg Roll in a Bowl a popular option for keto and low-carb diets, with net carbs per serving often under 10 grams.
This recipe is free from added sugars and can be gluten-free if tamari or coconut aminos replace the soy sauce. Its balanced macronutrient content and rich micronutrient profile make Egg Roll in a Bowl a wholesome dish for varied diets.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Egg Roll in a Bowl pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For an alcoholic option, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish’s savory, aromatic profile without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Those who prefer beer will enjoy a light lager or wheat beer, which can balance the umami and spice from the sriracha.
Non-alcoholic choices include an unsweetened iced green tea, which helps cleanse the palate between bites and echoes the Asian inspiration of the dish, or a sparkling water with fresh lemon or cucumber slices for a refreshing, clean contrast.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To perfect your Egg Roll in a Bowl, use the freshest cabbage and carrots available for a crisp texture that mimics the experience of biting into a real egg roll.
Prep all vegetables in advance to streamline your cooking process, and consider using a food processor with a shredding blade for fast, uniform cuts. If you desire a vegetarian variation, skip the ground meat and substitute with firm tofu or plant-based crumbles for equally robust protein.
You can also add mushrooms or bean sprouts to enhance the umami and volume, making the bowl more filling. For a richer flavor, experiment with a drizzle of hoisin sauce or a sprinkle of Chinese five-spice, but use sparingly to keep the dish light.
If you like your meal extra saucy, double the soy sauce and rice vinegar, or add a splash of chicken broth as the vegetables cook. Spice lovers can stir in extra sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Don't overlook the garnishes—they add not only flavor but also color and crunch. Toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and a dash of fresh lime juice really elevate the final dish.
Finally, for the most even cooking, don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary, especially if doubling the recipe for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Egg Roll in a Bowl can be served as either a main course or as part of a family-style spread. It shines hot and fresh out of the pan, but also holds up well as leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping.
To make the meal more substantial, serve it with steamed Jasmine or brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. For a fun twist, spoon some of the mixture into crisp, butter lettuce leaves for easy lettuce wraps, creating a handheld appetizer experience perfect for parties.
Top with additional sliced green onions, a scattering of cilantro, or extra sriracha for those who crave a kick.
If you’re hosting guests, arrange the Egg Roll in a Bowl in a large serving dish and let everyone customize their bowl with a selection of garnishes like shredded purple cabbage, crunchy wonton strips, or toasted peanuts.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is equally at home as a light lunch or hearty dinner, fitting seamlessly into any meal plan. When packing for lunch, keep sauces and garnishes separate until ready to eat to preserve freshness and texture.
Health Benefits
Egg Roll in a Bowl is celebrated for its impressive health benefits. With a base of cabbage and carrots, it is high in dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and helping maintain cholesterol levels. Cabbage also provides a significant dose of vitamins K and C, promoting immune function and bone health.
The inclusion of lean ground meats, like turkey or chicken, enhances the protein content while keeping saturated fat low. Healthy fats from sesame oil and seeds supply essential fatty acids necessary for heart health and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
By eliminating the deep-fried wrapper, this dish is much lower in calories and unhealthy fats than traditional egg rolls, making it suitable for those managing cholesterol or calorie intake.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if paired with cauliflower rice, appealing to keto, paleo, and diabetic diets. It is easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by swapping soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
This versatility, combined with nutrient density and low processed ingredient content, makes Egg Roll in a Bowl an excellent addition to any well-balanced, health-conscious eating plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! Simply replace the ground meat with extra-firm tofu, crumbled tempeh, or a plant-based protein alternative. Use coconut aminos or tamari to keep the dish vegan and gluten-free if needed.
Egg Roll in a Bowl stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Yes, it’s a meal prep favorite because it retains its flavor and texture even after a few days in the fridge. Keep garnishes and sauces separate until serving to maintain freshness.
The dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cabbage may soften further upon thawing. For best results, cool it quickly, pack in airtight containers, and use within one month.
Ground turkey, chicken, shrimp, or beef can all be used in place of ground pork, and firm tofu or plant-based grounds are excellent vegetarian options.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect dish for those who crave the flavors of a traditional egg roll without the extra calories, carbs, or mess of frying. By combining lean proteins with earthy vegetables, and vibrant Asian seasonings, this quick, one-pan masterpiece satisfies even the busiest of schedules or pickiest of eaters. Its incredible flexibility means your whole family can enjoy their own variation, from meat-lovers to vegetarians and everyone in between. Whip up Egg Roll in a Bowl for busy weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings, and enjoy a wholesome, hearty meal designed for both health and happiness. Let this recipe become a staple in your weekly rotation and delight in a dish that’s just as easy to make as it is enjoyable to eat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
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1Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
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2Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
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3Stir in the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
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4Add the shredded cabbage and carrots, and pour in the soy sauce. Stir and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
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5Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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