Oh my goodness, let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite weeknight meals – Egg Roll in a Bowl! This dish is a dazzling fusion of flavors that packs all the goodness of an egg roll but without the fuss of actually rolling anything up. You know those nights when you want something hearty and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? That’s exactly when I whip this up!
I have to admit, I stumbled upon this gem during a last-minute dinner crisis. I had a pound of ground pork lurking in the fridge and some forgotten veggies in the crisper drawer. I mean, who doesn’t have a bag of coleslaw mix just begging to be used up? A few quick turns around the pantry, and voilà! Dinner is served! This recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s not only super easy but also incredibly delicious. Let’s dive into the details!
What’s in Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Ground Pork: While I love ground pork for its flavor and juiciness, you can absolutely use ground beef or chicken too. Just make sure to cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked.
Coleslaw Mix: The star of the show! This blend of shredded cabbage and carrots adds crunch and color. It’s perfect for a quick meal and makes the prep so easy – no chopping required!
Sesame Oil: A little drizzle of this fragrant oil brings that delightful nutty flavor reminiscent of your favorite Asian dishes.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger are the dynamic duo that will make your taste buds sing. They add warmth and depth that you just can’t get from powder.
Soy Sauce: This is the umami bomb that ties everything together. I prefer low-sodium soy sauce – no one wants a salt lick for dinner!
Rice Vinegar: Just the right amount of tanginess to balance out the richness of the meat.
Sriracha: Optional, but if you like a little kick, I say go for it! Spice lovers unite!
Green Onions: Chopped and tossed in at the end for freshness and a bit of crunch.
Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the entire dish.
Sesame Seeds: These little beauties not only make everything look pretty but also add a lovely crunch.
Is Egg Roll in a Bowl Good for You?
Oh yes, my friend, it absolutely can be!
Ground Pork: Packed with protein, it keeps you full and satisfied for longer. Just remember, leaner cuts will be lighter on calories.
Coleslaw Mix: Cabbage is a powerhouse of nutrients and fiber, which is great for digestion. Plus, you’ll get a dose of vitamin K!
Garlic and Ginger: Both are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can give your immune system a nice little boost.
That said, like all things, moderation is key. If you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the soy sauce and Sriracha, but you can always adjust to taste!
What You’ll Need
– 1 pound ground pork (or ground beef/chicken)
– 1 bag (14 oz) coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
– 3 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional, for heat)
– 3 green onions, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 hearty portions, perfect for family dinner or lunch leftovers.
How to Make Egg Roll in a Bowl?
1. Start by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
2. Once it’s hot, toss in your ground pork (or beef/chicken) and cook until it’s nice and browned, breaking it up as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Now, stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until that heavenly aroma fills your kitchen.
4. Next, add in the coleslaw mix and stir it up. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and Sriracha if you’re feeling fiery. Mix everything well and let it all meld together for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
6. Finally, remove the pan from heat and gently fold in the sliced green onions.
7. Serve hot, topping each bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds if you’d like. Enjoy your delicious Egg Roll in a Bowl!
Little Extras to Level Up Your Bowl
If you want to get a little creative, here are some fun ideas!
– Try adding some diced bell peppers or snap peas for an extra pop of color and crunch.
– For a vegetarian version, swap the meat for tofu or tempeh and make sure you use soy sauce that’s labeled vegetarian.
– Serve it over cooked rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
– Add a drizzle of hoisin sauce or a sprinkle of chili flakes for an added flavor boost.
– Don’t forget to serve it with some egg rolls on the side if you really want to stay true to the name!
I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. If you give it a whirl, let me know how it goes and what your favorite twist was! Happy cooking!
