Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Quick, Healthy

The crispy, savory goodness of egg rolls is beloved by all, but what if that satisfying crunch and rich umami flavor could be enjoyed without the deep-fried wrapper and carb-heavy coating? Welcome Egg Roll in a Bowl. This deconstructed take on a classic Asian-inspired appetizer turns it into a complete meal, with all the flavors of traditional egg rolls but without the wrapper (and often quicker to prepare). When cooking feels like an afterthought during busy weeknights or when you need something quick and easy to throw together for meal prep for the upcoming week, this dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish—faster than delivery! Whether you’re on a keto diet or cutting back on carbs, or just can’t get enough Asian-inspired flavors, this recipe is perfect for your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to add egg roll in a bowl to your meal rotation. Here’s why this recipe has gained such a devoted following:

Ready in 20 Minutes – In the time it would take to place and receive a takeout order, you can prepare this entire dish from start to finish. It’s the perfect solution for those evenings when hunger strikes and patience is in short supply. The prep work is minimal, especially if you use pre-shredded coleslaw mix.

Meal-Prep Friendly – Unlike traditional egg rolls that get soggy when stored, this deconstructed version maintains its integrity and flavor for days. Make a double batch on Sunday, portion it into containers, and enjoy hassle-free lunches throughout your busy week. It reheats beautifully without losing texture or taste.

Endlessly Customizable – Consider the recipe a starting point for your culinary creativity. Prefer chicken to pork? Make the switch! Watching sodium? Adjust the sauce. Need more spice? Add chili oil or sriracha. The framework accommodates countless variations to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Health Benefits Galore – This dish delivers impressive nutritional value, combining lean protein with fiber-rich vegetables. It’s high-protein, low-carb, and packed with nutrients. For those tracking macros or following specific eating plans like keto, paleo, or Whole30 (with appropriate sauce substitutions), it’s a dream come true.

Family-Friendly – Despite its “healthified” status, this dish doesn’t taste like diet food. The familiar flavors appeal to all ages, and it’s easy to adjust the spice level to accommodate sensitive palates. It’s a clever way to incorporate more vegetables into your family’s diet without complaints.

Budget-Conscious – With simple, accessible ingredients that won’t break the bank, this recipe is economical compared to takeout alternatives. Ground meat stretches further when combined with cabbage, making this a cost-effective option for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of egg roll in a bowl lies in its simple ingredient list. Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this flavorful dish to life:

For the Base:

• 1 pound ground pork – The traditional choice for authentic flavor, though ground chicken, turkey, or even plant-based alternatives work wonderfully
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil – For browning the meat and sautéing vegetables
• 1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix – This time-saving ingredient provides pre-shredded cabbage and carrots in perfect proportion
• 1 medium onion, finely diced – Yellow or white onions work well for their sweetness when cooked
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh is best for maximum flavor
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated – Provides essential aromatic quality; ground ginger can substitute in a pinch
• 4-5 green onions, sliced – Reserve some green parts for garnish

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce – Use coconut aminos for a gluten-free, lower-sodium alternative
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil – A little goes a long way; this provides distinctive nutty flavor
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – For brightness and acidity
• 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional) – Adjust according to your spice preference
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or substitute – Balances the savory elements; use monk fruit or erythritol for keto version

For Garnish:

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds – Adds visual appeal and subtle crunch
• Extra sliced green onions – For freshness and color
• Crispy wonton strips (optional) – If you’re not strictly following low-carb
• Sriracha or hoisin sauce – For serving on the side

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating this flavorful one-pan meal is remarkably straightforward. Follow these simple steps for egg roll in a bowl perfection:

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork (or your chosen protein) and break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is no longer pink and beginning to brown at the edges, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain some off, but leave a little for flavor.

Step 2: Add Aromatics and Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté for 2 minutes until beginning to soften. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic.

Now add the coleslaw mix and white parts of the green onions to the skillet. Stir to combine with the meat and aromatics. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften but still maintains some crunch.

Step 3: Add the Sauce

While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together all sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetable combination, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly reduces and the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the green onion tops. Transfer the mixture to serving bowls and garnish with remaining green onions, sesame seeds, and any optional toppings like crispy wonton strips. Serve immediately while hot.

The entire cooking process should take about 15-20 minutes from start to finish, making this the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without the wait.

Tips for the Best Egg Roll in a Bowl

Elevate your dish from good to great with these professional tips and tricks:

Balance Texture – The hallmark of a great egg roll in a bowl is the perfect balance of tenderness and crunch. Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should soften but still maintain some bite. This contrast in textures is what makes the dish so satisfying.

Use Pre-Shredded Coleslaw Mix – While you can certainly shred your own cabbage and carrots, the pre-mixed bags save valuable time without sacrificing quality. They typically contain the perfect proportion of green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots.

Don’t Skip the Sesame Oil – This ingredient might seem optional, but it’s essential for authentic flavor. The distinctive nutty taste it provides cannot be replicated by other oils. Since it’s potent, a little goes a long way.

Season Your Meat Well – For maximum flavor, add a pinch of salt and pepper when browning your ground meat, even before adding the sauce. This builds layers of flavor throughout the dish.

Double the Sauce – If you prefer a saucier version (perfect for serving over rice), simply double the sauce ingredients. The extra sauce also helps the leftovers stay moist when reheated.

Create Crispy Elements – Since you’re missing the crunch of the fried wrapper, consider adding textural elements like toasted sliced almonds, crispy fried shallots, or wonton strips if not strictly following low-carb guidelines.

Grate Ginger When Frozen – Keep ginger root in your freezer and grate it while frozen—it’s easier to handle and you don’t need to peel it first.

Add an Egg (Optional) – For an authentic touch and protein boost, create a well in the center of your mixture towards the end of cooking, crack in an egg, and scramble it before incorporating it with the rest of the ingredients.

How to Store & Reheat

One of the many benefits of egg roll in a bowl is how well it keeps for future meals. Here’s how to store and reheat this versatile dish:

Refrigerator Storage: Once cooled, transfer leftovers to airtight containers. The dish will maintain its quality in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors often deepen and meld overnight, making day-two servings especially delicious.

Freezer Option: For longer storage, this dish freezes surprisingly well. Portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving slight headspace for expansion. It will keep for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without any crispy toppings, which can be added fresh after reheating.

Reheating Methods:

• Stovetop (Preferred): Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This method best preserves the texture.
• Microwave: For quick lunches, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. While convenient, this method may soften the vegetables further.
• From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using either method above for best results.

What to Serve With Egg Roll in a Bowl

While this dish stands perfectly well on its own as a complete meal, here are some complementary sides and accompaniments to round out your dining experience:

For Traditional Meals:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Simple vegetable soup
• Steamed edamame with sea salt

For Low-Carb Diets:

• Cauliflower rice
• Shirataki or zucchini noodles
• Simple cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing

Flavor Enhancers:

• Extra dipping sauce (mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey)
• Sriracha mayo (combine mayonnaise with sriracha to taste)
• Kimchi for a fermented flavor boost and probiotic benefits
• Avocado slices for healthy fat and creamy texture contrast

Conclusion

Egg roll in a bowl is more than just a trendy recipe—it’s a practical solution for anyone seeking quick, nutritious, and undeniably delicious meals. By deconstructing a beloved classic and focusing on its most flavorful elements, this dish delivers satisfaction without the fuss of wrapping and frying.

Whether you’re meal-prepping for a busy week ahead, following a specific dietary plan, or simply looking to incorporate more vegetables into your dinner rotation, this versatile recipe answers the call. The combination of savory ground meat, crisp-tender vegetables, and that signature sauce creates a crave-worthy meal that often becomes a regular request in households that try it.

Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Quick, Healthy

Course: Main DishCuisine: Asian-AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4-6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

15

minutes

Calories

280

kcal

Total time

25

minutes

This deconstructed Egg Roll in a Bowl delivers all the savory, satisfying flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout egg rolls without the wrapper! This healthy, one-pan wonder features seasoned ground pork, crisp cabbage, and aromatic vegetables stir-fried with classic Asian seasonings. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and works beautifully as a low-carb, keto-friendly meal. The combination of tender-crisp vegetables and savory meat creates a deliciously addictive dish that’s both nutritious and comforting.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken, turkey, or beef)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 medium onion, diced (about 1 cup)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)

• 2 medium carrots, julienned or shredded (about 1 cup)

• 3 green onions, sliced

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon sriracha or hot sauce (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)

• For Garnish:

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• Additional sliced green onions

• Lime wedges

Directions

• Prepare the vegetables: Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, julienne the carrots, and slice the green onions. Mince the garlic and ginger.
• Cook the meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove excess fat if needed.
• Add aromatics: Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan with the meat. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Cook the vegetables: Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the shredded carrots and cook for another 2 minutes.
• Add cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. It will seem like a lot, but it will cook down quickly. Stir frequently and cook for 4-5 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
• Season: Add soy sauce, rice vinegar, sriracha (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
• Finish and serve: Add sesame oil and sliced green onions. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry and stir for 1 minute. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed
• Garnish: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and additional green onions. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Notes

• Meat alternatives: Ground chicken, turkey, or beef work well as substitutes for pork
  Vegetarian option: Replace meat with crumbled firm tofu or tempeh
  Cabbage texture: Don’t overcook the cabbage – it should retain some crunch to mimic egg roll texture
  Make-ahead: This dish reheats well and can be meal prepped for up to 4 days
  Storage: Store in refrigerator for up to 4 days in airtight containers