Deconstructed Egg Roll Bowl

This easy egg roll stir fry captures all the delicious flavors of your favorite Chinese appetizer in a quick, one-pan meal. I created this recipe when I was craving egg rolls but wanted something lighter and faster than the deep-fried version.

My family requests this at least twice a month. What started as a quick dinner solution has become one of our most beloved comfort foods that satisfies cravings without the guilt.

Ingredients

• Ground meat: Chicken, turkey, or pork creates the hearty base. Try using dark meat for more flavor.
• Vegetable oil: With its neutral flavor, it lets the other ingredients shine.
• Medium onion: Chopped, adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic cloves: Minced, provides essential aromatic foundation.
• Grated ginger: Brings that authentic Asian flavor profile. Use fresh for best results.
• Green cabbage: Thinly sliced, offers the classic egg roll crunch and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Medium carrots: Shredded, adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• Soy sauce: Creates the savory umami foundation. Low sodium works well too.
• Sesame oil: A small amount delivers maximum nutty flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Balances the dish with subtle acidity.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, adds a gentle heat that builds.
• Green onions: Sliced, provides fresh flavor contrast and visual appeal.
• Optional sesame seeds: For garnish, adds texture and presentation.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the meat:

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ground meat of choice and cook for about 5–7 minutes until well browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for even cooking. Proper browning creates deeper flavor, so resist stirring too frequently. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add aromatics:

Introduce chopped onion, garlic, and ginger to the cooked meat. Stir frequently for 2–3 minutes until the onion begins to soften and become translucent and the kitchen fills with a fragrant aroma. This aromatic base is crucial for authentic flavor.

Incorporate vegetables:

Add thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrots to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring the vegetables get coated with the flavors from the meat and aromatics. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should soften while maintaining a slight crispness. Overcooking will make them mushy.

Create the sauce:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes, if using, until well combined. This simple sauce delivers maximum flavor. Pour the mixture evenly over the contents of the skillet and mix thoroughly to coat everything.

Finish cooking:

Allow the stir fry to cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This final cooking time lets the sauce permeate the ingredients and allows flavors to meld together. The cabbage should be tender but still have some texture.

Garnish and serve:

Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately while hot, either on its own for a low-carb meal or over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a more substantial dinner.

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The sesame oil is my secret weapon in this recipe. Just a tablespoon transforms this simple stir fry into something that truly tastes like an egg roll. I once made this for my mother-in-law who claims to dislike cabbage, and she asked for seconds. The cooking process makes the cabbage so sweet and flavorful even cabbage skeptics approve.

Make Ahead and Storage

This egg roll stir fry is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it completely and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. When reheating, use a microwave for 1–2 minutes or quickly reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to refresh the texture. The dish also freezes well for up to 3 months, though the vegetables may become slightly softer when thawed.

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Variations to Try

While the basic recipe is delicious, there are endless ways to customize this egg roll stir fry. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with crumbled tofu or tempeh, adding an extra tablespoon of soy sauce for flavor. Mushrooms, particularly shiitake, make an excellent addition for umami depth. For a spicier version, add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce mixture. You can also introduce bean sprouts, water chestnuts, or bamboo shoots for additional texture and authenticity.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish works beautifully in many serving styles. For a low-carb meal, serve it in lettuce cups using butter lettuce or romaine hearts as edible vessels. For a more substantial meal, pair with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice. Add a drizzle of sweet chili sauce or duck sauce on top for a flavor reminiscent of the dipping sauce typically served with egg rolls. For an interactive family meal, set out various toppings like chopped peanuts, cilantro, lime wedges, and hot sauces so everyone can customize their bowl.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's the best meat to use for egg roll stir fry?

Ground pork offers the most authentic egg roll flavor, but ground chicken and turkey work excellently as leaner alternatives. Ground beef can also be used for a heartier version. For vegetarian options, crumbled tofu or plant-based ground meat substitutes blend perfectly with the Asian-inspired seasonings.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Beyond the suggested red pepper flakes, try adding sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the soy sauce mixture. Fresh minced Thai chilies or a drizzle of chili oil at serving time will also increase the heat. For a more complex spice profile, add a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sambal oelek.

→ Can I prepare any components ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop all vegetables up to 2-3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce ingredients can be mixed and stored separately. You can even cook the ground meat ahead of time, then simply reheat and add the remaining ingredients when ready to serve for an extremely quick meal.

→ What vegetables can I add or substitute?

This stir fry is incredibly versatile. Try adding thinly sliced bell peppers, snow peas, mushrooms, bean sprouts, or water chestnuts for added texture and nutrition. You can also substitute napa cabbage for green cabbage, or add shredded brussels sprouts for a different flavor profile. The key is cutting everything into similarly sized pieces for even cooking.

→ How do I serve egg roll stir fry?

This dish is traditionally served over steamed white rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. For a fun presentation, serve in lettuce cups as wraps. It also pairs well with simple sides like steamed edamame or a cucumber salad. For extra flavor, drizzle with additional soy sauce, hoisin, duck sauce, or sweet chili sauce at the table.

→ How long will leftovers keep?

Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, leftovers will keep for 3-4 days. The flavors often intensify overnight, making this dish excellent for meal prep. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months, though the vegetables may soften slightly upon thawing.