Name: Egg Roll In A Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4
Ingredients: - 2 tablespoons olive oil; - 1 pound ground turkey; - 1 small sweet onion; - 1 cup shredded carrots; - 3 garlic cloves; - 1 teaspoon fresh ginger; - ¼ cup chicken broth; - 1 small head cabbage; - 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari; - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; - ¾ teaspoon salt; - ½ teaspoon black pepper; - 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; - Cooked white rice (optional); - Green onions (optional); - Toasted sesame seeds (optional); - Sriracha Mayo (optional)

Imagine a dish that’s as comforting as your favorite takeout but only takes a fraction of the time to make. This Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe is just that—a quick, delightful adventure for your taste buds with all the flavors of an egg roll, minus the fuss of wrapping and frying. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel accomplished in the kitchen and leaves you with a smile after every bite.

One evening while the winter chill settled in, I found myself craving the warmth of my favorite takeout. Unable to brave the cold, I tossed together what I had at home—cabbage, pork, and a few key spices. The kitchen filled with the savory aroma as I recreated the familiar flavors, turning a simple night into an unexpected culinary triumph.

The roots of egg roll in a bowl

Egg Roll In A Bowl is a modern twist on the classic Chinese-American egg roll, ditching the deep-fried wrapper for a lighter, quicker dish. It captured hearts for being both a healthy alternative and a time-saver, fitting perfectly into low-carb and keto lifestyles. Over the years, cooks have added their own flair, incorporating varied proteins and seasonings. Its charm lies in its simplicity and adaptability, making it a go-to for busy weeknights while still holding onto the flavorful essence of the beloved original egg roll.

What goes into this scrumptious bowl?

Cooking up an “Egg Roll in a Bowl” is like welcoming a flavorful friend to your table. Each ingredient brings its own unique charm, ensuring a delightful culinary adventure. Let’s explore these elements and see how they contribute to this delectable dish, while keeping things light and breezy.

Olive Oil 🫒: The foundation of flavor, olive oil helps everything sizzle to perfection. I sometimes swap it with avocado oil, which works just as well! Look for a good-quality extra virgin option for that rich taste and heart-healthy benefits.
Ground Turkey 🍗: Lean and protein-packed, ground turkey makes this dish hearty without the guilt. If turkey isn’t your favorite, ground chicken is a great stand-in. Choose fresh, pinkish meat for the best results.
Sweet Onion 🧅: This finely diced gem adds a natural sweetness and depth. I’ve used yellow onions in a pinch, but sweet onions really enhance the flavor. A crisp, firm onion usually has the best taste.
Shredded Carrots 🥕: Bright and crunchy, carrots add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. Baby carrots work too, just shred them finely. They’re a great source of beta-carotene, and they keep things vibrant.
Garlic 🧄: This aromatic powerhouse elevates the overall taste. Fresh garlic is best, but if you’re in a bind, garlic powder will do. Choose firm cloves for that robust flavor that’s also heart-healthy.
Fresh Ginger 🍃: A zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds. If fresh ginger isn’t handy, a pinch of ground ginger works, though the fresh kind has more zing. Pick plump and smooth roots for the freshest taste.
Chicken Broth 🍲: Adds a savory depth and keeps everything juicy. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter taste. Opt for low-sodium options to control the saltiness while enhancing flavors.
Cabbage 🥬: The main component, cabbage brings bulk and crunch. Napa cabbage is a fun twist if you like it softer. Look for tightly packed leaves to ensure freshness, and enjoy its fiber benefits.
Soy Sauce/Tamari 🥢: This salty splash ties everything together. Tamari is a great gluten-free alternative. Always go for low-sodium versions to keep things balanced.
Rice Vinegar 🍶: It adds a subtle tang that brightens the dish. If you don’t have rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a decent second choice. A good rice vinegar should have a light, delicate aroma.
Salt & Black Pepper 🧂: These timeless classics enhance flavors. I sometimes use pink Himalayan salt and freshly cracked pepper for an extra touch. They add taste without overpowering.
Toasted Sesame Oil 🌿: A nutty finish that rounds off the flavors beautifully. If unavailable, a sprinkle of sesame seeds can mimic the taste. Just a few drops of good quality oil transform the dish.
Cooked White Rice (Optional) 🍚: A soft bed for serving, making it more filling. Brown rice can be a healthier choice with more fiber. Ideally, use slightly cooled rice for the best texture.
Green Onions (Optional) 🌱: For a fresh, zesty garnish. Chives are a good alternative if you want a milder flavor. Crisp, green stalks are the freshest and most flavorful.
Toasted Sesame Seeds (Optional) 🌰: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor. Black or white seeds work, but toasting them always elevates the taste. They’re tiny nutritional powerhouses with healthy fats.
Sriracha Mayo (Optional) 🌶️: A creamy, spicy finish for those who like a kick. Regular mayo with a splash of hot sauce works too. A little goes a long way to add a creamy, spicy note.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the turkey and cook until almost cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
Push the turkey to one side of the pan and add onion and the remaining tablespoon of oil. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add shredded carrots, garlic, and ginger and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the cabbage, tamari or soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cover.
Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until the cabbage has reached your desired tenderness.
Remove from the heat and add toasted sesame oil.
Serve egg roll in a bowl over white rice, if using, and top with green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and sriracha mayo, if desired.

Must-have tools for your egg roll dish🍽️

In your culinary journey, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide for essentials you might find handy.

Large Skillet: A spacious skillet is crucial for recipes like Egg Roll in a Bowl, allowing all ingredients to cook evenly. If you’re short on space, a wide enough saucepan can work in a pinch.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: A good knife effortlessly tackles vegetables and meats, saving time and avoiding frustration. If you’re on a budget, a well-maintained utility knife is a versatile alternative.
Cutting Board: Protect your surfaces and ensure safety while chopping. A large wooden or thick plastic board provides stability, but a smaller version can suffice if space is limited.
Measuring Spoons and Cups: Precision in cooking can elevate dishes. While you can eyeball measurements, using proper tools helps consistently achieve the desired flavor balance.
Garlic Press: Efficiently mincing garlic enhances flavor without hassle. If unavailable, finely chopping with a knife or grating with a microplane are great substitutes.

Investing in these essentials can enhance your cooking experience, making meal prep quicker and more enjoyable.

Crafting your culinary masterpiece👩‍🍳

Step 1: Sizzle the Skillet with Flavor
Warm up a large skillet on medium heat and pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, letting it shimmer like a summer mirage. Introduce the ground turkey, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. You’ll notice the meat begin to brown and release its savory aroma after about 5 to 6 minutes, signaling it’s almost ready for the next step.
Step 2: Onions Take Center Stage
Nudge that turkey over to make room for the onion’s grand entrance. Splash in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then scatter the finely diced sweet onion into the pan. Stir occasionally to ensure it softens and sweetens, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. This gives the turkey a chance to mingle with the onion’s sweetness.
Step 3: Carrots and Aromatics Delight
Introduce a burst of color and aroma with the shredded carrots, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir the mixture frequently for about 2 minutes, enjoying the way these fragrant ingredients combine to create a welcoming, layered aroma. This step sets the stage for the broth infusion.
Step 4: Add a Splash of Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, using your spatula to gently coax any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. This deglazing step is where you capture all those lovely flavors that might otherwise stick to the pan. Allow the broth to reduce slightly as it mingles with the other ingredients.
Step 5: Cabbage Commotion and Seasoning Symphony
It’s time for the cabbage to join the party. Toss in the shredded cabbage along with tamari or soy sauce, rice vinegar, salt, and a dash of black pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the cabbage is well-coated with the seasonings. Cover the skillet to let the flavors meld and the cabbage to soften. This gentle steam bath should last about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on how tender you like your cabbage.
Step 6: Finish with a Toasty Twist
Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the top, gently stirring to disperse its nutty, aromatic essence throughout the dish. This final flourish is what transforms the dish from good to irresistible.
Step 7: Serve and Customize Your Creation
Spoon your flavorful creation over a bed of cooked white rice, if that’s your preference. For a pop of color and extra flavor, garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. If you fancy a bit of heat, a drizzle of sriracha mayo will do the trick. Enjoy your egg roll in a bowl, a delightful, deconstructed take on a classic favorite.

Mix it up: fun twists and tasty tweaks

Transforming this dish to suit different palates is quite fun. For a gluten-free option, swap the soy sauce for tamari, and skip the sriracha mayo or make it gluten-free. The flavors remain rich and satisfying. For vegans, substitute the turkey with crumbled tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth. It’s lighter yet equally delightful. When fall arrives, I toss in some diced butternut squash, which adds a sweet earthiness. A touch of curry powder introduces a dash of Indian flair, and surprisingly, the spices marry well with the traditional Asian elements. Each twist brings its own delightful surprise.

Creative ways to plate your egg roll in a bowl

Imagine your Egg Roll In A Bowl nestled in elegant, shallow white bowls, the contrasting colors making the dish pop. Sprinkle a dash of sesame seeds on top for a bit of crunch and a pinch of green onions for a burst of freshness. Why not add a playful twist with a lime wedge on the side? It’s like a tropical vacation for your taste buds! Complement this with a side of jasmine rice or crispy spring rolls. And for a splash of color, a simple cucumber salad brightens the whole table.

Perfect sips for your egg roll in a bowl?

When savoring an Egg Roll In A Bowl, I find a refreshing glass of iced green tea to be just the ticket. Its subtle earthy notes and a hint of sweet balance the savory umami flavors of the dish perfectly. If you’re feeling like something with a little more zest, a tangy ginger lemonade can be just as delightful—adding a zingy contrast that dances on the taste buds. And for those cozy evenings, a classic jasmine tea, its floral aroma wrapping around you like a warm hug, makes for an ideal pairing. Cheers to delicious choices!

Keeping it fresh and tasty: storage secrets

Egg Roll In A Bowl is perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days to maintain freshness. When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. To prevent any food safety issues, ensure it’s piping hot before digging in. If you freeze it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just a tip: add a splash of soy sauce or a dash of sesame oil when reheating to revive those vibrant flavors!

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Whipping up this crowd-pleaser might seem straightforward, but a few pitfalls can sneak up on even the most seasoned cooks.

First on the list is overcooking the turkey. No one wants dry, rubbery meat! Keep an eye on it until just about done, then move it aside to make room for those lovely sweet onions.

Another common hiccup is underestimating the time it takes for cabbage to soften. Covering it after adding the liquid is key. This allows the cabbage to steam and absorb all those delicious flavors.

And don’t forget that toasted sesame oil at the end! It’s a game-changer in terms of aroma and taste, so make sure it doesn’t slip your mind.

Enjoy your culinary adventure and watch out for these simple but effective tips!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What can I use as a substitute for ground turkey?
You can easily swap the ground turkey for ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based crumbles to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the meat and add more veggies like mushrooms or tofu for extra texture. You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added depth.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Egg Roll in a Bowl is perfect for meal prep. Make it a day or two in advance, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To kick up the spice level, add some chili flakes during cooking or include more sriracha in the sriracha mayo. Adjust according to your heat tolerance!
What can I serve alongside Egg Roll in a Bowl?
While it’s hearty on its own, you could add a side of steamed dumplings or an Asian-inspired salad to complement the flavors. A refreshing cucumber salad might be a perfect pairing.

Why you’ll love this easy egg roll dish🎉

Why not dive into the delightful simplicity of the Egg Roll In A Bowl? It’s a dish begging for your own flair. Try it once, and you might just find yourself whipping it up on the regular. Add a sprinkle of your favorite spice, or toss in some extra veggies. It’s like a blank canvas just waiting for your culinary masterpiece. So, grab your spatula and give it a whirl. You never know, this might become your new go-to comfort food. Go ahead, unleash your inner chef!