If you love the flavors of a classic egg roll but want a simpler, lighter, and quicker version to enjoy any night of the week, this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It captures all those delicious notes of savory pork, crunchy cabbage, and that perfect kiss of garlic and ginger, without the hassle of wrappers or deep frying. This dish is packed with vibrant textures and bold flavors, offering a homey and satisfying meal that feels both comforting and fresh. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this recipe brings all the yum of an egg roll without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe plays a key role, from the fragrant sesame oil that gives warmth to the dish, to the crunchy cabbage adding freshness and texture. These simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor that are both rich and bright.
- Sesame oil: Adds an aromatic, nutty flavor that enhances the entire dish.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and a tender bite once sautéed, balancing savory elements.
- Ground pork: The protein base contributing juiciness and depth; can be swapped for other ground meats.
- Garlic: Infuses an irresistible pungency and warmth with every spoonful.
- Grated ginger: Brings a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
- Water chestnuts: Add a crisp, unexpected crunch contrasting the tender veggies.
- Rice wine vinegar: Offers a mild acidity that lifts and balances flavors.
- Soy sauce: Delivers savory umami depth for that signature egg roll taste.
- Hoisin sauce: Contributes a sweet, tangy glaze that rounds out the seasoning.
- Sriracha: Provides a comfortable heat level to keep things exciting.
- Coleslaw mix: Combines shredded cabbage and carrots for crunch and color.
- Grated carrots: Enhance sweetness and freshness to the mix.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to highlight all components.
- Black sesame seeds: Garnish that adds visual contrast and subtle nuttiness.
- Green onions: Fresh, sharp notes topping off the dish perfectly.
- Mayonnaise and extra sriracha: To make a creamy, spicy drizzle that elevates every bite.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook them until they become translucent and soft, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is critical because properly cooked onions release sweetness that forms the base of this dish’s delightful flavor.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Pork
Next, add the ground pork to the skillet. Stir frequently as it cooks until it is nicely browned and no longer pink. This even browning builds a rich, savory foundation while allowing you to drain any excess liquid for a perfect texture that’s not mushy.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Ginger, and Water Chestnuts
Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped water chestnuts, cooking everything together for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This quick step releases those bold and fresh aromatics while incorporating the signature crunch the water chestnuts bring.
Step 4: Mix in the Sauces
Pour in rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sriracha. Stir thoroughly to coat the meat and aromatics with the flavorful sauce blend. This mixture creates the signature savory, tangy, and slightly spicy taste that makes the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe stand out.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Add the coleslaw mix and grated carrots to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper, then cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to wilt the cabbage just enough for tenderness while preserving enough crunch to keep each mouthful exciting.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Garnish
Remove the skillet from heat and taste the dish. Add extra seasoning if needed. Top with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of black sesame seeds for that beautiful finishing touch and a pop of fresh color.
Step 7: Prepare the Sriracha Mayo Drizzle
Whisk together mayonnaise with 1 to 2 tablespoons of sriracha until smooth. Adjust the heat to your liking. Drizzle this spicy, creamy sauce over the finished dish to add an indulgent layer of flavor that ties everything together beautifully.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes are where you can really play around and personalize the dish. Thinly sliced green onions add a fresh bite, while black sesame seeds bring a subtle nuttiness and rustic look. A drizzle of the spicy sriracha mayo is an absolute game changer, turning every forkful into a flavor explosion.
Side Dishes
While this dish is fantastic on its own, pairing it with simple steamed rice or cauliflower rice can turn it into a more substantial meal. For those wanting an extra vegetable boost, a side of steamed broccoli or snap peas complements the warmth and spice beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to serve this at a party or just want a creative twist, present the Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe inside crisp lettuce cups. This creates a fun hand-held meal reminiscent of an egg roll bite, keeping things light and perfect for sharing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool the Egg Roll in a Bowl completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored properly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making it excellent for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well too—but with one caveat: the fresh cabbage might lose some crunch after thawing. To freeze, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a skillet on medium heat to maintain texture, adding a splash of water if the mixture feels dry. Alternatively, you can microwave it covered for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Top with fresh green onions and sriracha mayo again for best results.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is very versatile. Ground chicken or turkey work well and make it a bit leaner while still absorbing all those fantastic flavors.
How spicy is this dish by default?
It has a moderate heat level thanks to the sriracha in the sauce and the sriracha mayo drizzle, but you control the spice by adjusting the amount of sriracha to suit your taste.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your hoisin sauce is gluten-free as some varieties contain wheat.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground pork for crumbled tofu or finely chopped mushrooms to keep the satisfying texture and soak up the sauces beautifully.
What’s the best way to get crunch in this dish?
The chopped water chestnuts and coleslaw mix provide crisp texture. Avoid overcooking the cabbage to keep it from turning mushy, aiming for just wilted but still slightly crunchy.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the delicious flavors of a classic egg roll without the extra work and calories of the wrapper. It’s quick, comforting, and customizes perfectly to your preferences. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again—your new favorite weeknight dinner is just a skillet away.
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe transforms the classic egg roll into a quick, healthy, and delicious stir-fry bowl. Packed with ground pork, crunchy cabbage, and flavorful Asian-inspired seasonings, it’s a low-carb, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 lb. ground pork (can substitute with ground chicken, ground beef, or ground turkey)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 8 oz water chestnuts, chopped
- 1 Tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 Tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 Tablespoon sriracha
- 1 (16 ounce) bag coleslaw mix
- ½ cup grated or matchstick carrots
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Black sesame seeds, for garnish
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
Sriracha Mayo
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 Tablespoons sriracha
Instructions
- Cook onion: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Brown the meat: Add the ground pork (or your choice of meat) to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess liquid if needed to prevent sogginess.
- Add aromatics and chestnuts: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped water chestnuts. Cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant and well combined.
- Incorporate sauces: Pour in the rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sriracha. Mix everything thoroughly to coat the meat and vegetables evenly with the flavorful sauce.
- Add vegetables and season: Add the coleslaw mix and shredded carrots to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Finish and garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and taste to adjust seasoning if needed. Top with sliced green onions and sprinkle with black sesame seeds. Optionally drizzle with sriracha mayo before serving.
- Prepare sriracha mayo: In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with 1-2 tablespoons of sriracha sauce, adjusting the heat to your preference. Stir until smooth and well combined to use as a flavorful drizzle or dip.
Notes
- Ground meat substitutes like chicken, beef, or turkey work well if you prefer a different protein.
- Adjust sriracha amounts depending on your preferred spice level.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- To keep it low-carb, avoid serving with rice or noodles and enjoy as is.
- Water chestnuts add a pleasant crunch, but can be omitted if unavailable.
