Egg Roll Stir Fry, also known as “Egg Roll in a Bowl,” is a quick, flavorful dish that captures all the savory goodness of an egg roll—without the deep frying! Packed with tender ground meat, crunchy cabbage, and classic Asian seasonings, this low-carb meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
For the Stir Fry:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 pound ground pork, chicken, or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 (14-ounce) bag coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 3 green onions, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce or oyster sauce (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)
Optional Toppings:
- Sesame seeds
- Crispy wonton strips
- A fried or soft-boiled egg
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
- Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the coleslaw mix and bell pepper (if using).
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, and sriracha.
- Pour the sauce over the stir fry and toss to coat everything evenly.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Stir in sliced green onions and cook for an additional minute.
- Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and extra green onions.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving:
- Enjoy on its own for a low-carb option, or serve over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or noodles for a heartier meal.
- For extra protein, top with a fried egg or a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Helpful Notes
- Vegetable Variations: Swap the coleslaw mix for fresh shredded cabbage and carrots or add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or mushrooms.
- Protein Options: This recipe works well with ground beef, tofu, or shrimp.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Jet Tila: “To enhance the flavor, toast the sesame oil briefly in the pan before adding the meat.”
- Chef Ming Tsai: “Use freshly grated ginger for a bright, authentic taste—it makes a big difference!”
- Chef David Chang: “A splash of fish sauce can add depth and umami to the dish.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat instead of animal protein.
2. What can I use instead of coleslaw mix?
Fresh shredded cabbage and carrots work perfectly. You’ll need about 4 cups total.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and use gluten-free hoisin sauce if needed.
4. Is this keto-friendly?
It can be! Use a low-carb hoisin alternative or skip it, and avoid serving with rice or noodles.
5. How do I make it less salty?
Reduce the soy sauce or use a low-sodium version, then taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
6. Can I double the recipe?
Definitely! Use a larger skillet or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
7. What if I don’t have sesame oil?
Substitute with a neutral oil, like vegetable or avocado oil, though sesame oil provides a signature flavor.
8. How can I add more crunch?
Top with crispy wonton strips, chopped peanuts, or sliced water chestnuts.
9. Can I use fresh ginger instead of minced?
Yes! Grate about 1 inch of fresh ginger for a brighter flavor.
10. What’s the best side dish to serve with this?
Pair it with egg drop soup, dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad for a complete meal.