There’s a certain comfort that comes from the sizzling sound of ground pork in a hot skillet, married perfectly with the vibrant crunch of fresh coleslaw. One evening, feeling a bit bored with takeout options, I reached for a bag of coleslaw mix and thought, “Why not transform this into a delicious meal?” Little did I know, this spontaneous idea would lead me to create a delightful dish that tastes just like an egg roll but without the fuss of deep-frying and wrappers.
What makes this Egg Roll in a Bowl so appealing is not just its ease but the incredible balance of flavors. With the warmth of garlic and ginger combined with the savory notes of coconut aminos and toasted sesame oil, every bite feels like a satisfying hug. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to various dietary needs, making it a win for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner.
So grab your skillet and let’s dive into this quick and scrumptious recipe that will surely leave you craving more than just another round of fast food!
Why You’ll Love This EGG ROLL IN A BOWL
Quick and Easy: This Egg Roll in a Bowl comes together in just 15-20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal when time is tight.
Flavor Explosion: The aromatic blend of garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame oil delivers a satisfying punch in every bite.
Healthy Twist: Packed with coleslaw, this dish is loaded with veggies, offering a guilt-free alternative to traditional egg rolls.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap out ground pork for beef or even a plant-based protein, allowing for endless variations to suit your taste.
No Frying Needed: Enjoy all the flavors of classic egg rolls without the mess of oil and deep-frying, making cleanup a breeze.
Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both adults and kids, ensuring everyone at the table will be asking for seconds!
Egg Roll in a Bowl Ingredients
For the Base
• Avocado oil – a heart-healthy option for sautéing that adds great flavor.
• Garlic (minced) – offers a fragrant kick that complements the pork beautifully.
• Fresh ginger (minced or grated) – provides warmth and zest, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor profile.
• Ground pork (or ground beef) – the star protein; feel free to substitute with your favorite plant-based option.
• Sea salt – essential for bringing out the flavors in the dish.
• Black pepper – add more for an extra punch of spice if desired.
For the Veggie Mix
• Shredded coleslaw mix – a convenient way to add a colorful crunch; you can also chop fresh cabbage and carrots.
• Coconut aminos – offers a soy sauce alternative that’s rich in umami; adjust the amount to your taste.
• Toasted sesame oil – a little goes a long way, imparting a nutty flavor that ties everything together.
• Green onions – add fresh brightness to the dish, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
For the Finishing Touch
• Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish) – sprinkle on top for an added crunch and decorative touch.
This delightful Egg Roll in a Bowl is bound to become a quick staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl
-
Heat the Oil: Warm the avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant and inviting.
-
Brown the Meat: Add the ground pork (or beef) to the skillet. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper, and use a spatula to break it apart. Cook for 7-10 minutes until it’s beautifully browned.
-
Add the Veggies: Reduce the heat to medium, and stir in the coleslaw mix along with the coconut aminos. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and vibrant.
-
Finish with Flavor: Remove the skillet from heat. Gently stir in the toasted sesame oil and sliced green onions. For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Optional: Top with extra green onions for a fresh crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
EGG ROLL IN A BOWL Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with this dish, tailoring it to your taste and dietary preferences!
- Pork-Free: Substitute ground pork with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Both are mild and absorb flavors beautifully.
- Beef Option: Swap ground pork for ground beef, which gives a richer taste. Ideal if you’re craving heartier flavors in your Egg Roll in a Bowl!
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground meat with a mixture of firm tofu or tempeh for a satisfying plant-based version. Add more veggies for a colorful bounty!
- Spicy Kick: Stir in some sriracha or red pepper flakes while cooking the ground meat for an extra layer of heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance!
- Nutty Flavor Boost: Add chopped peanuts or cashews during the last minute of cooking for a delightful crunch and nutty richness. Perfect for those who love textures!
- Zesty Twist: Mix in a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity. It’s a refreshing touch!
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to keep this dish gluten-free while still delivering those umami notes.
- Extra Veggie Power: Toss in additional veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas with the coleslaw for added nutrients and flavor diversity. Keep it vibrant!
Expert Tips for Egg Roll in a Bowl
-
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and ginger to enhance flavors. Dried spices won’t give the same aromatic punch as fresh ones.
-
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Avoid adding too much ground pork at once; this can lower the pan’s temperature and lead to steaming instead of browning.
-
Taste as You Go: As you add coconut aminos and seasonings, taste for balance. Adjust the salt and pepper based on your preference for spice in this Egg Roll in a Bowl.
-
Perfect Texture: Stir the coleslaw mix just enough to coat; overcooking can lead to soggy veggies. Aim for a tender yet crisp finish.
-
Garnish for Appeal: Don’t skip the sesame seeds and green onions; they add beautiful color and a delightful crunch to the presentation.
-
Meal Prep Friendly: Double the recipe and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches. Just reheat for a satisfying meal anytime!
Make Ahead Options
These Egg Roll in a Bowl are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily sauté the ground pork (or beef) up to 3 days in advance, allowing you to save precious time on busy weeknights. Simply cook it as directed, season it with salt and pepper, and then refrigerate in an airtight container. The coleslaw mix can also be prepared ahead and stored separately for up to 24 hours to maintain its crunch and freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the pork mixture on the stove, add the coleslaw and coconut aminos, and cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through. You’ll have a quick, delicious meal that feels just as satisfying as when made fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl
Fridge: Store leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to freeze it, let the dish cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out for about 5-7 minutes.
Keep Separate: For best results, store the toppings (like sesame seeds) separately and add them fresh just before serving.
What to Serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Creating a delightful meal revolves around balancing flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully with your main dish.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The subtle sweetness of jasmine rice complements the savory notes of this dish, soaking up all the tasty juices.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic add a fresh crunch, enhancing the meal’s overall brightness.
Pairing these with your bowl can elevate the dining experience. Imagine crunchy, vibrant green beans alongside the warmth of ground pork and coleslaw—a match made in culinary heaven!
- Chili Garlic Edamame: These protein-packed pods offer a satisfying bite that mirrors the savory richness of the egg roll flavors.
- Cucumber Salad: A light and refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar balances the richness, offering a delightful palate cleanser.
For a fun twist, enjoy the cool crunch of the cucumber salad as a counterpoint to the warm egg roll bowl—a splash of warmth and refreshment in every bite.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat provides a silky finish to the meal, delighting your taste buds.
- Iced Green Tea: Cool and refreshing, iced green tea is the perfect drink to pair, enhancing the meal’s Asian flair while providing a light cleanse.
Each pairing brings out different elements of the Egg Roll in a Bowl, creating a meal that is both satisfying and memorable!
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe FAQs
What type of ground meat should I use for this dish?
Absolutely! While ground pork is recommended for its rich flavor, you can easily substitute it with ground beef, turkey, or a plant-based alternative like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that each protein will bring a unique taste to your Egg Roll in a Bowl.
How do I store leftover Egg Roll in a Bowl?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve the flavors and texture. If you find yourself with more than you can eat, consider freezing it (see the next question for instructions)!
Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. The Egg Roll in a Bowl will stay fresh for up to 2 months. Remember to label it with the date, so you know when to enjoy it! When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
My coleslaw mix seems soggy—what did I do wrong?
Not to worry! This is a common issue. To avoid soggy coleslaw, make sure not to overcook the vegetables. Keep an eye on them in the skillet; once they’re tender yet still crisp (about 5 minutes), it’s time to remove them from heat. Stirring just until combined can also help maintain that delightful crunch.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Very much so! If you’re catering to gluten-free diets, substitute the coconut aminos for tamari sauce, which is gluten-free. Always check labels to ensure the products you’re using meet your dietary requirements.
Is there a way to spice it up?
Absolutely! If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or sriracha to the skillet when cooking the meat. You can adjust the spice level to your preference, making it a perfect fit for you!
Delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl: Your Fast Homemade Fix
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Warm the avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground pork (or beef) to the skillet. Season generously with sea salt and black pepper, and cook for 7-10 minutes until browned.
- Reduce heat to medium, and stir in the coleslaw mix along with the coconut aminos. Cook for about 5 minutes, till tender.
- Remove from heat, stir in the toasted sesame oil and sliced green onions. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.