Background and History
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a modern, deconstructed version of the classic egg roll, capturing all its flavors without the deep-frying. This dish has become popular among health-conscious eaters and those following low-carb, keto, or paleo diets. By eliminating the egg roll wrapper and focusing on the savory filling, this recipe offers a quick and nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare. The dish draws inspiration from traditional Chinese cuisine but has been adapted to suit contemporary dietary preferences and busy lifestyles.
Serves: 4
Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground pork or turkey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Sriracha or hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic and fresh ginger if using.
- Shred the cabbage and grate the carrots.
- Chop the green onions.
Cook the Meat
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground pork or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Cook the Aromatics
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and grated carrots.
- Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
Season the Dish
- Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
- Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
Finish and Serve
- Sprinkle the chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using) over the top.
- Serve hot, with sriracha or hot sauce on the side if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
Notes
- Variations: You can substitute ground chicken or beef for the pork or turkey. For extra flavor, add a splash of fish sauce or a teaspoon of hoisin sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Use crumbled tofu or a meat substitute instead of ground meat.
- Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Allergy Warning
- Soy Sauce: Contains soy and gluten. Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Sesame Oil and Seeds: Contains sesame, which is a common allergen. Omit if you have a sesame allergy.
- Cross-Contamination: Be cautious of cross-contamination if preparing for someone with food allergies. Ensure all utensils and cooking surfaces are clean.
Why is it called egg roll in a bowl?
It’s called Egg Roll in a Bowl because it deconstructs the traditional egg roll, serving all the flavorful filling ingredients without the crispy wrapper, in a convenient bowl format.
What goes well with egg rolls?
Egg rolls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as sweet and sour, soy sauce, or spicy mustard. They also complement side dishes like fried rice, lo mein, or a simple Asian-inspired salad.
Who made the first egg roll?
The exact origin of the first egg roll is unclear, but it is generally believed to have been created by Chinese American chefs in the early 20th century as a variation of traditional spring rolls.
What is an egg roll made of?
An egg roll is typically made of a savory filling that includes ingredients like cabbage, carrots, pork, and seasonings, all wrapped in a wheat flour wrapper and deep-fried until crispy.
Do egg rolls contain onions?
Yes, egg rolls often contain onions as part of their filling, contributing to the overall flavor profile along with other vegetables and meats.
What is egg roll paper called?
Egg roll paper is called a wrapper. These wrappers are made from wheat flour and are specifically designed to hold the filling and become crispy when fried.
Why are egg rolls good?
Egg rolls are good because they offer a delightful combination of crunchy texture and savory, flavorful filling. Their versatility in fillings and dipping sauces also makes them a popular appetizer or snack.
Where does egg rolling come from?
Egg rolling, a different concept from egg rolls, traditionally refers to a game played during Easter where eggs are rolled down hills or slopes. This practice is most commonly associated with European and American Easter traditions.
What country is known for egg rolls?
The United States, particularly Chinese American communities, is known for popularizing the egg roll as it is commonly enjoyed today.
Why are egg rolls lucky?
Egg rolls are considered lucky in some cultures because they are often served during Lunar New Year celebrations, symbolizing wealth and prosperity due to their golden, bar-like appearance.
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