Ingredients

Ground Meat (1 pound): The foundation of our egg roll in a bowl is a pound of ground meat. For a healthier twist, we recommend using lean ground turkey or ground chicken breast. These options are lower in fat while still providing a substantial protein base. However, feel free to use ground pork or even ground beef if you prefer a richer flavor profile. For a vegetarian or vegan version, consider using crumbled firm tofu or plant-based ground meat substitutes.

Shredded Cabbage (1 bag, about 14-16 ounces): Cabbage is the star of the show, providing that signature egg roll crunch and a wealth of nutrients. A bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix is incredibly convenient and typically includes a mix of green and red cabbage, and sometimes carrots, adding visual appeal and textural variety. You can also shred your own cabbage if you prefer. Green cabbage is classic, but Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage would also work beautifully.

Carrots (1 cup, shredded or julienned): Carrots contribute sweetness, color, and an extra dose of vitamins to the dish. Pre-shredded carrots are a time-saver, or you can shred or julienne them yourself. If you’re using a coleslaw mix that already includes carrots, you might want to adjust the amount you add separately to avoid overpowering the other flavors.

Onion (1 medium, chopped): Onion forms the aromatic base of our recipe, adding depth and savory notes. Yellow or white onions are excellent choices. Dice the onion into small pieces so it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the dish.

Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-minced garlic, but fresh garlic will always provide a brighter, more pungent aroma and taste.

Ginger (1 tablespoon, grated or minced): Fresh ginger adds a warm, zesty, and slightly spicy kick that is essential to the authentic egg roll flavor. Peel and grate or finely mince fresh ginger for the best results. If you don’t have fresh ginger, you can use ground ginger, but start with a smaller amount (about ½ teaspoon) as ground ginger can be more potent.

Soy Sauce (or Coconut Aminos) (1/4 cup): Soy sauce provides the umami-rich, salty base for the sauce. For a healthier option or if you are following a gluten-free or soy-free diet, coconut aminos are an excellent substitute. They offer a similar savory flavor with a touch of sweetness and are lower in sodium than traditional soy sauce. Low-sodium soy sauce is another good option if you want to reduce sodium intake.

Rice Vinegar (2 tablespoons): Rice vinegar adds a subtle tang and acidity that balances the richness of the other flavors. It brightens the dish and prevents it from being too heavy. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar as substitutes, but rice vinegar provides the most authentic flavor profile.

Sesame Oil (1 tablespoon): Sesame oil lends a distinctive nutty aroma and flavor that is characteristic of Asian cuisine and essential for that authentic egg roll taste. A little goes a long way, so one tablespoon is usually sufficient. Toasted sesame oil is preferred for its richer flavor.

Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor and Customization:
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
- Sesame Seeds (for garnish): Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty crunch and visual appeal as a garnish.
- Green Onions (for garnish): Sliced green onions provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
- Water Chestnuts (canned, sliced, drained – 1/2 cup): For added crunch and texture, consider incorporating sliced water chestnuts.
- Bamboo Shoots (canned, sliced, drained – 1/2 cup): Similar to water chestnuts, bamboo shoots add a subtle crunch and mild flavor.
- Mushrooms (sliced – 1 cup): Sliced mushrooms, such as shiitake, cremini, or white button mushrooms, can add an earthy flavor and meaty texture to the dish.
- Bean Sprouts (1 cup): For a fresh, crunchy element, bean sprouts can be added towards the end of cooking.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients (Mise en Place)

Before you even turn on the stove, taking a few minutes to prepare your ingredients will streamline the cooking process and ensure everything comes together smoothly. This culinary principle, known as “mise en place,” is key to efficient and enjoyable cooking.

Chop the onion: Dice the onion into small, even pieces.

Mince the garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves.

Grate or mince the ginger: Peel and grate or finely mince the fresh ginger.

Shred the carrots (if not using pre-shredded): If you are using whole carrots, shred or julienne them.

Open and prepare any optional additions: If you are using water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, or mushrooms, drain and slice them as needed. Have your sesame seeds and green onions ready for garnish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Meat

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add your ground meat (turkey, chicken, pork, or beef).

Break up the meat: Use a spatula or spoon to break the meat into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Cook until browned: Cook the ground meat until it is fully browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the type of meat and the heat of your skillet.

Drain excess fat (optional but recommended for leaner versions): If you are using ground beef or pork, you may want to drain off any excess fat after browning the meat to keep the dish healthier. Ground turkey and chicken breast are typically leaner and may not require draining.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

Once the meat is browned, push it to one side of the skillet or remove it temporarily and set aside. Add the chopped onion to the skillet.

Sauté onion: Cook the onion over medium heat until it becomes softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add garlic and ginger: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet with the onions. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Incorporate carrots (and optional mushrooms): Add the shredded carrots (and sliced mushrooms, if using) to the skillet. Cook for a few more minutes until the carrots are slightly softened but still have a bit of crunch.

Step 4: Add Cabbage and Cook Until Tender-Crisp

Add the shredded cabbage (coleslaw mix) to the skillet.

Stir and combine: Stir everything together to combine the cabbage with the meat, onions, garlic, ginger, and carrots.

Cook until cabbage wilts and softens: Cook, stirring frequently, until the cabbage wilts down and becomes tender-crisp. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Avoid overcooking the cabbage; you want it to retain some texture and not become mushy.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Simmer

Pour in the soy sauce (or coconut aminos), rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add red pepper flakes if using.

Stir to coat: Stir well to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed and coats all the ingredients.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to slightly thicken. If you want a thicker sauce, you can simmer for a bit longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons cold water) and cook until thickened.

Step 6: Add Optional Crunchy Elements (Water Chestnuts, Bamboo Shoots, Bean Sprouts)

If you are using water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, or bean sprouts, add them now.

Stir in and heat through: Stir in the water chestnuts and/or bamboo shoots and cook for just a minute or two to heat them through. If using bean sprouts, add them right at the very end and cook for only about 30 seconds, just until they are slightly wilted but still retain their crispness.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the Egg Roll in a Bowl and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Add more soy sauce or salt: If you prefer a saltier flavor, add a little more soy sauce or a pinch of salt.

Add more rice vinegar: For more tang, add a splash more rice vinegar.

Add more red pepper flakes: If you want more heat, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha or chili garlic sauce.

Add a touch of sweetness (optional): If you prefer a slightly sweeter flavor, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Remove the Healthy Egg Roll in a Bowl from the heat and prepare to serve.

Garnish: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Serve hot: Serve immediately while hot and flavorful.

Nutrition

Serving Size: one normal portion
Calories: 250-350
Sugar: 5-8 grams
Sodium: 500-800 mg
Fat: 10-20 grams
Saturated Fat: 2-5 grams
Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
Fiber: 3-5 grams
Protein: 25-35 grams