Craving the flavors of egg rolls but looking for a healthier, easier version that doesn’t require deep-frying? Egg Rolls in a Bowl are the perfect solution. This deconstructed version of your favorite appetizer combines all the delicious fillings of a traditional egg roll, including seasoned ground meat, cabbage, and vegetables, but without the fried wrapper. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for parties.
Whether you’re on a low-carb diet, trying to eat healthier, or just looking for a fun new twist on a classic, this recipe will satisfy your cravings without any of the guilt. Read on to learn how to make this delicious and nutritious dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love Egg Rolls in a Bowl
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a healthy meal without the hassle.
- Low-Carb and Healthy: Without the deep-fried wrapper, this recipe is a lighter alternative to traditional egg rolls while still packing in the flavor.
- Flavor-Packed: Ground meat, cabbage, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil combine to create a savory, satisfying meal.
- Customizable: You can swap in your favorite protein, add extra vegetables, or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this dish! The flavors are comforting and familiar, but with a healthy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this tasty and easy dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken, turkey, or beef)
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or another cooking oil of your choice)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Egg Rolls in a Bowl
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon, until fully cooked and browned. This will take about 5–7 minutes. Once the meat is cooked, remove any excess fat and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Then, add the shredded cabbage and carrot to the skillet. Stir well to combine, and cook for 5–7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but still has a slight crunch.
Step 3: Add the Seasoning
Once the vegetables are softened, add the cooked ground meat back into the skillet. Stir to combine with the cabbage and carrot. Add the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together well and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, transfer the egg roll mixture to serving bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a little extra crunch and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Egg Rolls in a Bowl
- Use Ground Pork for Authentic Flavor: Ground pork is traditionally used in egg rolls and gives the dish an authentic flavor. However, you can swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or beef if you prefer.
- Adjust the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the mix. This is a great way to incorporate more veggies into the dish.
- Make it Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. It has a similar flavor but is free from gluten and soy.
- Add Extra Heat: If you like spicy food, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha or chili sauce to the mixture for an extra kick.
- Make it Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep! You can cook the egg roll mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop when ready to eat.
Customizing Your Egg Rolls in a Bowl
One of the best parts about this recipe is how customizable it is. Here are some ways to make it your own:
- Change the Protein: If you prefer a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken. If you want more flavor, go for ground beef or even lamb.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in additional vegetables like snow peas, bell peppers, or baby corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Spicy Version: For an extra spicy kick, you can add some chopped fresh jalapeños or a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the mix.
Why Egg Rolls in a Bowl Are Perfect for You
- Healthy and Low-Carb: This dish is the perfect healthy alternative to deep-fried egg rolls. It’s low-carb, gluten-free (when using coconut aminos), and packed with vegetables, making it suitable for most diets.
- Satisfying and Flavorful: You get all the savory goodness of a traditional egg roll without the heavy, fried wrapper. The combination of meat, cabbage, and seasonings is hearty and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: In just 30 minutes, you can make this dish from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, whether you want to make it spicier, add more vegetables, or swap out the protein.
Conclusion
Egg Rolls in a Bowl are the perfect combination of comfort food and healthy eating. Packed with savory flavors from seasoned ground meat, crispy cabbage, and a hint of sesame oil, this dish delivers all the delicious flavors of traditional egg rolls without the deep-fried wrapper. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it the perfect meal for any occasion. Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a healthier take on your favorite appetizer!