Craving the delicious flavors of egg rolls but want to skip the hassle of deep frying? Enter Egg Roll in a Bowl, a quick and healthy one-pan meal that gives you all the savory goodness of a traditional egg roll without the carbs or calories from the wrapper. This low-carb, keto-friendly dish is packed with ground pork (or your choice of protein), crunchy cabbage, carrots, and a savory Asian-inspired sauce that will make it an instant favorite. Keep reading to learn how to make this easy weeknight dinner, along with tips, substitutions, and serving ideas!
What is Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a deconstructed version of a classic Chinese takeout egg roll. Instead of wrapping all the flavorful fillings inside a crispy wrapper, everything is cooked together in one pan, making it quicker to prepare and healthier. This dish typically includes ground pork, shredded cabbage, carrots, and green onions, all sautéed in a soy sauce-based sauce with ginger and garlic. It’s a great meal for those on low-carb, paleo, or keto diets, but it’s so tasty that anyone can enjoy it.
Ingredients List for Egg Roll in a Bowl
To make Egg Roll in a Bowl, you’ll need the following simple and affordable ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken, turkey, or beef): Pork is the traditional choice, but you can easily substitute it with other proteins.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for the savory base of the dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (grated): Adds a fresh, zesty kick.
- 4 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a medium head): This forms the bulk of the dish and gives it the classic egg roll crunch.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
- 3 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari: The base of the sauce that adds saltiness and umami.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty, aromatic flavor.
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar: Balances out the richness with a hint of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional): For those who love a spicy kick.
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced): For garnish and extra flavor.
- Sesame seeds (optional): A finishing touch that adds a bit of texture and nuttiness.
Optional Toppings:
- Fried eggs: For extra protein and richness.
- Sliced avocado: A creamy, keto-friendly addition.
- Chili flakes or extra sriracha: For more heat.
- Crushed peanuts or cashews: Adds crunch and a touch of nuttiness.
Substitutions and Variations
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some common substitutions and variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground pork for crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Different Protein Options: Ground turkey, chicken, or even shrimp can be used in place of pork for a leaner version.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use a low-sodium soy sauce or tamari.
- Cabbage Varieties: You can use Napa cabbage, purple cabbage, or a pre-shredded coleslaw mix if you want a different texture or to save time.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Peanut Butter Sauce: For a creamy, nutty twist, add a spoonful of peanut butter or peanut sauce to the dish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s how to cook it step by step.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Pork
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-8 minutes, or until browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it, leaving a small amount to sauté the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Ginger
Once the pork is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet. Add the diced onion to the other side and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Then, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring to combine everything. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Carrots
Next, add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened but still slightly crunchy. You want the cabbage to retain some of its texture, similar to an actual egg roll filling.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, and sriracha (if using). Pour the sauce over the pork and vegetables and stir to coat everything evenly. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the mixture is well-combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sliced green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot, optionally topped with a fried egg or sliced avocado for extra richness.
How to Cook Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the Ground Meat: Begin by browning your ground pork or preferred protein in a large skillet. Cook until no longer pink, ensuring you break it up into small pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add garlic, onion, and ginger for that classic egg roll flavor base. These aromatics bring warmth and depth to the dish.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in your shredded cabbage and carrots. Stir-fry them until tender but still crisp.
- Pour in the Sauce: Mix the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar in a bowl, then pour over the cabbage and meat mixture.
- Stir and Garnish: Stir everything until well-coated. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a perfect finishing touch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While Egg Roll in a Bowl is a simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes you can avoid to ensure it turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the Cabbage: You want the cabbage to still have a slight crunch to mimic the texture of an egg roll. Overcooking can make it soggy.
- Not Draining Fat: If using a fattier ground meat like pork, be sure to drain the excess fat before adding the vegetables, or the dish might turn out greasy.
- Using Low-Quality Soy Sauce: Since soy sauce is a key ingredient in this recipe, using a high-quality brand will greatly improve the overall flavor of the dish.
- Not Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the dish as you go! Depending on the brand of soy sauce or your personal taste, you may want to add more or less seasoning.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Egg Roll in a Bowl is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some ideas on how to serve and present this dish:
How to Serve Egg Roll in a Bowl
- On its Own: This dish is hearty enough to be served as a standalone meal, especially if you’re following a low-carb or keto diet.
- Over Rice: For a more filling option, serve the egg roll filling over a bowl of steamed white or brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
- With Lettuce Wraps: Serve the mixture with large lettuce leaves on the side for a fun DIY lettuce wrap experience.
- With Fried Eggs: Top your bowl with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness. The runny yolk adds a velvety texture to the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Bento Box Style: For a fun, visual twist, serve the components separately in a bento box or on a divided plate, allowing everyone to mix their own bowl.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds makes the dish look as fresh as it tastes. Add a few chili flakes or a drizzle of extra sriracha for some heat.
- Serve in Bowls: For a cozy, comforting presentation, serve this dish in deep bowls with chopsticks on the side.
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe Tips
- Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. It reheats well, making it a great option for weekday lunches.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
- Make it Saucy: If you prefer a saucier dish, simply double the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil amounts to ensure everything is well-coated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze Egg Roll in a Bowl?
A: Yes! Egg Roll in a Bowl freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Q: Is Egg Roll in a Bowl keto-friendly?
A: Absolutely. This dish is naturally low in carbs, especially if you use soy sauce or tamari and skip
the rice or other carb-heavy sides.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and simply reheat it when you're ready to eat.
Q: Can I use coleslaw mix instead of shredding my own cabbage?
A: Yes, using a pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a great shortcut that will save you time. Just make sure it doesn’t contain any added dressings.
Conclusion
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With its rich combination of ground pork, crunchy cabbage, and a savory soy sauce-based dressing, it captures the essence of a traditional egg roll without the deep frying or carbs. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this recipe can easily be adapted to suit your needs. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy this easy, satisfying meal!
Print
Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a quick, low-carb meal packed with flavors of traditional egg rolls without the wrapper. Made with ground pork, cabbage, carrots, and a savory blend of soy sauce and sesame oil, this dish offers a healthy, one-pan solution for busy weeknights. Perfect for those following keto, paleo, or gluten-free diets.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: sliced green onions, sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground pork over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in shredded cabbage, carrots, soy sauce, sesame oil, ground ginger, and rice vinegar. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Notes
- Substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey for a leaner version.
- For added spice, drizzle with sriracha or add red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
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