Pin it
This Egg Roll in a Bowl transforms the classic Asian appetizer into a satisfying one-skillet meal without the wrapper. The dish combines tender ground meat with crisp vegetables and savory Asian seasonings to create a delicious dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you crave those familiar egg roll flavors but want something lighter than deep-fried appetizers.
I first tried this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something substantial yet quick. The simplicity amazed me, but what truly won me over was how it satisfied my craving for takeout without leaving me feeling sluggish afterward.
Essential Ingredients Explained
- Ground turkey: Serves as an excellent lean protein base, providing substantial texture without excessive fat.
- Sweet onion: Adds natural sweetness that balances the savory elements throughout the dish.
- Shredded cabbage: Provides the classic egg roll texture and absorbs all the delicious flavors in the skillet.
- Fresh garlic and ginger: Create an aromatic foundation that gives this dish its authentic Asian flavor profile.
- Soy sauce: Delivers umami depth that permeates every bite of this satisfying dish.
- Toasted sesame oil: Finishes the dish with a nutty aroma that elevates the entire flavor experience.
I recommend seeking out fresh ginger root rather than powdered for this recipe. The bright, zesty notes make a remarkable difference in the final dish.
Cooking Method
- Heat Skillet:
- Begin by warming olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add ground turkey and break it into small pieces while it browns, continuing until no pink remains and edges turn slightly golden.
- Prepare Aromatics:
- Push cooked meat to one side of the pan to create space. Add diced sweet onion with remaining oil and cook until translucent and slightly soft. Incorporate shredded carrots, minced garlic, and ginger, allowing them to release their fragrance for about two minutes before pouring in chicken broth to loosen any browned bits from the pan bottom.
- Combine Everything:
- Add shredded cabbage in batches if necessary, stirring frequently as it begins to wilt. Pour in soy sauce and rice vinegar while sprinkling salt and pepper throughout. Cover the skillet to trap steam, reducing heat to medium-low and allowing everything to cook together until cabbage softens completely but retains some pleasant texture.
- Final Touches:
- Remove the skillet from heat once cabbage reaches desired tenderness. Drizzle toasted sesame oil over everything and gently fold it through the mixture to distribute the nutty flavor throughout. Let stand for two minutes before serving to allow flavors to fully develop.
Pin it
During my childhood, cabbage rarely appeared on our family table except in coleslaw. This recipe completely transformed my appreciation for this humble vegetable. The way it absorbs all the savory Asian flavors while maintaining a slight crunch makes it the perfect star ingredient rather than just a supporting player.
Perfect Pairing Options
Serve this versatile dish over fluffy white rice for a more substantial meal that allows the savory sauce to infuse every grain. For a lighter option, present it in lettuce cups with additional sriracha for an appetizer-style presentation. Consider serving alongside simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar for a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory main dish.
Creative Alternatives
Transform this basic recipe by incorporating different protein options like ground pork for more authentic egg roll flavor or crumbled tofu for a vegetarian version. Add unexpected vegetables such as diced water chestnuts for additional texture or shredded brussels sprouts for a twist on the traditional cabbage. Consider introducing various sauces like hoisin or sweet chili to create entirely different flavor profiles while maintaining the quick and easy preparation method.
Leftover Solutions
Store any remaining portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator where they will keep beautifully for up to four days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and prevent drying out. Avoid freezing this dish as the cabbage textures significantly deteriorate upon thawing, resulting in an unpleasantly watery consistency that ruins the experience.
Pin it
This Egg Roll in a Bowl represents everything I love about home cooking. The way it transforms simple ingredients into something genuinely crave-worthy while keeping preparation uncomplicated reminds me why cooking from scratch brings such satisfaction. The combination of healthful ingredients with deeply satisfying flavors makes this a recipe worth keeping in regular rotation for those nights when you want something special without special effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use ground pork instead of turkey in this egg roll bowl?
- Absolutely! Ground pork is a great substitute and actually more traditional for egg roll filling. You can also use ground chicken or even ground beef if you prefer.
- → Is this egg roll in a bowl recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, it is gluten-free if you use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
- → How can I make this egg roll bowl vegetarian?
- To make it vegetarian, simply replace the ground turkey with crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You'll also need to swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- → What's the best way to shred cabbage for this recipe?
- For the freshest flavor, use a sharp knife to thinly slice cabbage. For convenience, pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix works perfectly too - you'll need about 2 bags.
- → Can I meal prep this egg roll in a bowl?
- Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Store portions in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For best results, reheat in a skillet rather than microwave to maintain texture.