If you’re craving all the satisfying flavors of a classic egg roll without the deep-fried wrapper and extra carbs, this Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a vibrant, hearty twist on a takeout favorite that’s packed with savory ground pork, crisp cabbage, and just the right touch of seasoning, all coming together in a one-pan wonder. This dish is a perfect way to indulge those egg roll cravings while keeping things light, fresh, and incredibly flavorful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping it simple is the secret here. Each ingredient plays a vital role—bringing layers of flavor, crunch, and that beautiful balance of savory and tangy that makes this dish truly shine. You don’t need a long grocery list, but every item contributes something important to the final taste and texture.
- 1 lb ground pork: The hearty protein base that brings richness and a satisfying bite, though ground chicken or turkey work great for a leaner option.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil): Used for sautéing, this adds a subtle fruitiness or a toasted nuttiness depending on your choice.
- 1/2 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings that unmistakable pungent kick that pairs perfectly with pork.
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional): Adds a hint of warmth and zest that brightens every bite.
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots): The crunchy, fresh component that simulates the egg roll filling without the wrapper.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): The essential umami punch that ties everything flavor-wise together.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds an addictive tang that balances the richness of the pork.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional): A small drizzle elevates the dish with a warm, toasted aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and earthiness.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little spicy kick.
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, vibrant pop of green and mild onion flavor to finish the dish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a delicate crunch and an attractive finishing touch.
How to Make Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Pork
Start by heating your olive or sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground pork and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want to achieve a beautiful golden-brown color all around—this caramelization is where much of the flavor starts to develop! It typically takes about 6 to 8 minutes until the pork is cooked through and wonderfully fragrant.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger if you’re using it. Stir and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soften, and the garlic and ginger release their irresistible, fragrant aroma. This step infuses the pork with extra flavor and builds that warm, savory base.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Carrots
Now it’s time to add the coleslaw mix, which gives the dish its signature crunch and color. Stir it all in and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage softens but still holds a little crispness. Make sure to stir frequently to cook evenly and keep everything from sticking to the pan.
Step 4: Season the Bowl
Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and optional sesame oil, then sprinkle in the black pepper and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Stir well to coat all your ingredients in the flavorful sauce. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to mingle with the pork and cabbage so every bite is tasty and cohesive.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the mixture is cooked and perfectly saucy, remove the pan from heat. Top with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful, flavorful finish that adds freshness and texture. Serve this Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe while it’s steaming hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of a beloved classic, reinvented.
How to Serve Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is your chance to personalize this dish. Chopped green onions add a pop of color and mild oniony flavor, while toasted sesame seeds bring a subtle crunch. For those who like a bit of zing, a small drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkling of extra red pepper flakes works beautifully. Fresh cilantro leaves also make a lovely, fragrant addition if you want to mix things up.
Side Dishes
Though this recipe is complete on its own, you can turn it into a full feast by pairing it with a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli tossed with garlic. Cauliflower rice is another fantastic low-carb companion, keeping the theme light while adding more texture and vegetable goodness to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe inside lettuce cups for hand-held mini “egg roll” bites. You can also serve it over a bed of zoodles or spiralized vegetables for extra veggies and an elegant presentation. Either way, this dish is colorful, inviting, and perfect for casual dinners or meal prep lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this dish keep really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making for even tastier next-day meals. Just give it a good stir before reheating to redistribute the sauce.
Freezing
While you can freeze portions of this dish, keep in mind that the cabbage’s texture may soften slightly upon thawing. If you’re okay with that, freeze in meal-sized containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s still a convenient, nutritious option when you need a quick meal.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely to retain moisture. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating helps keep the cabbage tender and the pork juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey work wonderfully if you prefer a leaner option, and even ground beef can be used. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, as long as you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. That way, you get all the umami flavor without any gluten worries.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to mix in shredded carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for extra color, nutrition, and crunch. Just be mindful of your cooking time so the veggies don’t get too soft.
What if I don’t have rice vinegar?
If you’re out of rice vinegar, a splash of apple cider vinegar or white vinegar with a pinch of sugar can work as substitutes. They’ll provide the necessary acidity to balance the dish’s richness.
How spicy is the recipe?
The recipe is mild by default, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes—or even some freshly chopped chili—to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe is truly a game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors and crave-worthy meals without the carb overload. It’s quick, easy, and packed with fresh ingredients that feel homemade and nourishing. Give it a try tonight—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Low Carb Egg Roll in a Bowl is a healthier, quick, and flavorful twist on the classic egg roll, featuring ground pork and a vibrant mix of cabbage and carrots cooked in savory soy sauce and aromatic seasonings. Perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein and Oil
- 1 lb ground pork (or ground chicken/turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or sesame oil)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger (optional)
- 4 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 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 break it up with a spoon, cooking for about 6-8 minutes until fully browned and cooked through.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger if using to the skillet with the pork. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the coleslaw mix of shredded cabbage and carrots. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the cabbage wilts and softens evenly.
- Season the Dish: Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, optional sesame oil, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Stir thoroughly to coat the cabbage and pork. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes more to allow the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve the dish hot and enjoy your low-carb egg roll in a bowl.
Notes
- Feel free to substitute ground pork with ground chicken or turkey as preferred.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
- If you want some heat, don’t skip the red pepper flakes.
- Omitting the sesame oil will reduce the nutty aroma but keep the core flavors intact.
- This dish pairs well with cauliflower rice or can be enjoyed on its own for a low-carb meal.
