Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
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Looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? This Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe brings all the beloved flavors of a classic egg roll without the wrapper and carbs. It’s a quick, one-pan dish that masterfully balances savory ground pork, crunchy cabbage, and a zingy, garlicky sauce—a dish that’s as comforting as it is guilt-free. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this recipe will soon become your go-to when you crave that distinctive Asian-inspired taste with a low-carb twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to this dish’s incredible taste and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the richness of the ground pork to the crispness of the cabbage and the savory punch of soy sauce, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
- Ground pork (1 lb): Adds juicy richness and the perfect meaty base for the bowl.
- Olive oil or sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Used for browning the pork, it adds a subtle, toasty flavor.
- Diced onion (1/2 medium): Brings sweetness and depth to the sautéed mixture.
- Minced garlic (2 cloves): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and zest.
- Grated ginger (1 tablespoon, optional): Provides a fresh, slightly spicy undertone that lifts the dish.
- Coleslaw mix (4 cups): A blend of shredded cabbage and carrots that adds crunch and vibrant color.
- Soy sauce or tamari (3 tablespoons): Brings umami and saltiness, ensuring the flavors marry perfectly.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang that brightens the overall flavor profile.
- Sesame oil (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Boosts nutty aroma and adds depth.
- Ground black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle heat and seasoning.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a little kick to spice things up.
- Chopped green onions (2): Fresh garnish that adds a crisp bite and color contrast.
- Sesame seeds (1 tablespoon, optional): For a toasty crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Pork
Start by heating the olive or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground pork and break it up with a spoon, cooking it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. This step builds a savory, caramelized foundation that infuses the entire dish with meaty goodness.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
To the browned pork, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger if you’re using it. Cook together for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the onion softening and the kitchen filling with an inviting fragrance—this is where the dish really starts waking up.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Next, stir in the coleslaw mix, which is the perfect low-carb substitute for noodles or rice. Cook everything for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage wilts and becomes tender but still has a slight crunch. Stir frequently to keep everything cooking evenly without sogginess.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, optional sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Stir thoroughly so that the sauce evenly coats the pork and vegetables. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully together.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from the heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds. These garnishes add the perfect fresh crunch and visual appeal to your bowl. Serve immediately and get ready to enjoy a comforting, healthy feast!
How to Serve Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishing, chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds work wonders, adding brightness and a little texture contrast. You can also add a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish stands well on its own, but if you want to accompany it with sides, consider a light cucumber salad, a simple miso soup, or steamed edamame. These dishes keep the meal low-carb while complementing the savory components of the bowl.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the egg roll bowl in individual lettuce cups, turning it into easy handheld bites. Alternatively, layer it atop cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles for added texture and variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s perfect for quick lunches or dinner when you don’t want to cook from scratch.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Before freezing, let it cool completely to maintain the best texture upon thawing.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the dish overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it up in a skillet over medium heat to keep the cabbage crisp and the pork juicy. Microwaving works too, but this helps maintain the best flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are great lean alternatives that work perfectly in this recipe, providing protein while keeping it light and low carb.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even snap peas. Just adjust cooking times so everything stays tender-crisp.
How spicy is this dish?
The base recipe has a mild warmth. You can control the heat by adjusting or omitting the red pepper flakes and adding sriracha or chili paste if you want more kick.
What if I don’t have sesame oil?
Sesame oil adds a distinctive nutty flavor, but if you don’t have it, you can skip it or use a light drizzle of toasted oil after cooking to mimic some of that aroma.
Final Thoughts
If you want a fuss-free, healthy meal that tastes like a restaurant classic, this Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is your new best friend. It’s packed with flavor, quick to make, and endlessly customizable—plus, it hits that satisfying comfort food spot without the carb overload. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone looking to spice up their weeknight dinners or meal prep routine with something delicious and nourishing.
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Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A quick and flavorful Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe that combines ground pork, fresh cabbage, and savory seasonings. This skillet-cooked dish offers all the delicious flavors of an egg roll without the wrapper, making it a perfect low-carb, easy-to-make weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken/turkey)
Vegetables
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Oils and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Pork: In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil or sesame oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger (if using) to the skillet with the cooked pork. Stir occasionally and cook until the onion becomes soft and fragrant, around 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the coleslaw mix, which includes shredded cabbage and carrots. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage wilts and softens evenly.
- Season the Dish: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (optional). Mix thoroughly to coat the pork and vegetables, then cook for another 2 to 3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the dish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this low-carb, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for pork to lighten the dish.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spiciness or omit if you prefer a milder meal.
- Optional grated ginger adds a fresh, zesty flavor but can be left out if unavailable.
- This recipe cooks quickly, so prepare all ingredients before starting to ensure smooth cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
