If you're craving the delicious flavors of an egg roll but want to skip the extra calories and hassle of deep-frying, you've come to the right place. This Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe gives you everything you love about egg rolls without the fuss. It's a quick, low-carb, and healthy meal option that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. From perfecting the right blend of ingredients to serving and presenting it beautifully, this article will guide you through every step of the way. So read on to learn how to make this tasty, hassle-free dish!

What is “Egg Roll in a Bowl”?
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of the classic egg roll, minus the wrapper. It combines all the flavorful ingredients typically found in an egg roll—like cabbage, ground meat, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce—cooked together in a skillet. This low-carb, high-protein dish is not only easy to make but also loaded with nutrients, making it a great option for meal preps, quick dinners, and even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl
Here are the basic ingredients you'll need for a classic Egg Roll in a Bowl:
- Ground Meat (1 lb): Traditionally, ground pork is used, but you can also use ground chicken, turkey, or beef.
- Shredded Cabbage or Coleslaw Mix (4 cups): This serves as the main vegetable, providing a nice crunch and absorbing the sauce.
- Carrots (½ cup, shredded): Adds color and a touch of sweetness.
- Onion (1 small, finely diced): Enhances the savory flavor.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Brings an aromatic, punchy flavor.
- Ginger (1 tsp, minced): Fresh ginger is ideal, but you can use powdered if necessary.
- Soy Sauce (¼ cup): This salty, umami-rich sauce forms the base of the dish.
- Sesame Oil (1 tbsp): Adds a nutty richness that’s essential for Asian-inspired dishes.
- Green Onions (2, chopped): Used as a garnish for added color and freshness.
- Sesame Seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a nice crunch and a touch of elegance.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor
- Sriracha or Chili Paste (1-2 tsp): For a spicy kick.
- Rice Vinegar (1 tbsp): Adds a tangy balance to the savory flavors.
- Hoisin Sauce (1 tbsp): Optional, but adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- Bean Sprouts (½ cup): Provides extra crunch and freshness.
- Cilantro (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbal note.
Substitutions and Variations
Egg Roll in a Bowl is versatile, and you can easily adapt the recipe based on dietary needs and personal preference. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Protein Options: Substitute ground pork with ground chicken, turkey, or beef for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you can use crumbled tofu or tempeh.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use a low-sodium soy sauce or replace it with coconut aminos.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Sauce Variations: Add a splash of teriyaki sauce for sweetness, or replace soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, omit the sriracha. Alternatively, add more for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now, let's dive into the process of making this delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl. Follow these steps for a perfectly balanced, savory meal.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Chop the onion, mince the garlic and ginger, and shred the carrots if they aren’t pre-shredded. Have all your ingredients ready to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Step 2: Cook the Meat
In a large skillet, heat a little sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Once the meat is cooked, add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic and ginger are fragrant.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Add the shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix) and carrots to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still has some crunch.
Step 5: Season and Flavor
Pour the soy sauce and a bit more sesame oil over the mixture. Add sriracha or chili paste if you want some heat. Toss everything well to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well-mixed and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and optional cilantro. Your Egg Roll in a Bowl is ready to serve!
How to Cook Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Heat Skillet and Brown Meat: Begin by heating your skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground meat of your choice.
- Sauté Aromatics: Once the meat is cooked, add the aromatics (onion, garlic, ginger) to the skillet.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir and cook until tender.
- Season Well: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and any additional sauces or spices.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with green onions and sesame seeds for a final touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: This can make your ingredients steam instead of sauté, leading to soggy veggies. Use a large skillet or cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the Cabbage: The cabbage should still have a bit of crunch. Overcooking it can make the dish mushy.
- Skipping the Sesame Oil: Sesame oil adds an essential nutty flavor. Don’t skip it if you want that authentic egg roll taste.
- Not Adjusting for Saltiness: Soy sauce is quite salty. Taste the dish before adding more salt.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation can make this simple dish feel like a gourmet experience. Here are a few tips to elevate your Egg Roll in a Bowl:
- Serve in Individual Bowls: Instead of serving from the skillet, divide the dish into individual bowls for a restaurant-style experience.
- Top with Fresh Garnishes: Green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha look beautiful and add extra flavor.
- Serve with a Lime Wedge: A squeeze of lime juice adds brightness and complements the savory flavors.
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a complete dish on its own, but you can serve it in various ways:
- With Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- In Lettuce Wraps: Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves for a low-carb, hand-held option.
- With Noodles: Serve over noodles, such as rice noodles, for a more indulgent twist.
Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Layered Look: For a more elegant presentation, serve the meat and cabbage mixture over a bed of cauliflower rice and top with garnishes.
- Add a Rainbow of Vegetables: Incorporate colorful vegetables like red bell peppers and carrots for a visually appealing dish.
- Bento-Style Bowl: Present it in a bento-style container with sections for toppings and sides, adding a unique and aesthetic touch.
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips
- Make it Ahead: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: Egg Roll in a Bowl freezes well, too. Portion it into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding five-spice powder or fish sauce for additional depth of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh to make a vegetarian Egg Roll in a Bowl.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q: Can I use fresh cabbage instead of coleslaw mix? A: Absolutely! Freshly shredded cabbage works great and gives you more control over the texture.
Q: Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly? A: Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for a keto diet.
Q: What can I serve with Egg Roll in a Bowl? A: You can serve it with steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even over noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a fantastic recipe for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and low-carb meal packed with flavor. With its blend of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors, this dish captures everything you love about traditional egg rolls, minus the wrapper. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a delicious, guilt-free meal. Happy cooking!
PrintEgg Roll In A Bowl Recipe
This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is a quick, low-carb dish full of flavors from ground pork, cabbage, carrots, and a touch of ginger and soy sauce. Perfect for a healthy dinner or meal prep, this bowl brings all the taste of a classic egg roll without the extra carbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 4 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking up meat as it cooks.
- Add garlic and ginger to the pan, sautéing for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add cabbage and carrots; stir-fry for about 5–7 minutes, until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Pour in soy sauce and rice vinegar, stirring to combine. Add red pepper flakes if desired for a little heat.
- Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, until everything is well mixed and heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For a keto-friendly version, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Customize by adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or even water chestnuts for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800 mg
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