Name: Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4
Ingredients: - 1 pound lean ground beef, pork, or turkey; - 1 teaspoon minced garlic; - 14-16 ounces coleslaw mix or 6 cups finely sliced cabbage; - ⅓ cup low sodium soy sauce or tamari; - 1 teaspoon hot sauce; - 1 teaspoon ground ginger; - ½ teaspoon onion powder; - pinch ground cloves (optional); - 1 ½ tablespoons sesame oil; - 3 green onions, sliced; - sesame seeds for serving (optional)

Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that offers all the savory satisfaction of an egg roll without the extra oil and calories. This dish is a vibrant explosion of flavors and textures, promising a quick, delicious meal that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare. It’s the ultimate comfort food reimagined, perfect for those nights when you crave something both familiar and fresh. The combination of spices, cabbage, and pork creates a medley that dances on your taste buds with every bite.

I remember a chilly evening when the aroma of ginger and garlic wafted through the air, wrapping me in warmth as I stirred the sizzling pork in the pan. The crunch of cabbage and the soy-infused steam rising around me created a cozy cocoon, filling my kitchen with an inviting sense of home. That first bite was pure contentment.

The story behind the Asian-inspired delight

Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl has become a darling of the culinary world, prized for its simplicity and flavor. Originally inspired by the traditional Chinese egg roll, this deconstructed version skips the wrapper but keeps all the taste. It’s evolved as a low-carb favorite, embracing vibrant veggies and savory pork or chicken. Many love its versatility, adding their own twists with spicy sauces or crunchy toppings. It’s unique for transforming a beloved appetizer into a quick, wholesome meal, honoring its roots while fitting modern dietary trends.

What’s in your bowl?

Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl brings to life all the flavors you love in an egg roll without the deep-frying. Each ingredient has its own part to play, making this dish both flavorful and nourishing. Let’s dive into these ingredients that come together beautifully.

Lean Ground Beef, Pork, or Turkey: 🍖 The choice of protein builds the hearty base for this dish. I like using turkey for a leaner option, but pork or beef adds richness. Look for grass-fed or organic if possible for the best flavor and health benefits.
Minced Garlic: 🧄 This little guy adds a fragrant punch that’s both spicy and sweet. Fresh garlic is always a winner in my book, but in a pinch, pre-minced or garlic powder will do the trick.
Coleslaw Mix or Cabbage: 🥬 Cabbage brings the crunch and soaks up all the savory goodness. Bagged coleslaw is a time-saver, but if you’re up for it, slicing fresh cabbage gives extra freshness.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce or Tamari: 🥢 This is where the umami magic happens, balancing salty and savory. Low sodium is my go-to to keep things heart-friendly, and tamari is a fantastic gluten-free swap.
Hot Sauce: 🌶️ It’s all about that kick! Add a splash for mild heat or go wild if you’re like me and love it spicy. Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce works great here.
Ground Ginger: 🌿 A warm, zesty note that pairs perfectly with garlic. Fresh ginger’s even zestier, but the ground version keeps it easy and still flavorful.
Onion Powder: 🧅 A subtle layer of flavor without the chopping. If I’m out, I sometimes use a finely chopped onion or shallot instead for a more pronounced taste.
Ground Cloves (Optional): 🌰 Just a pinch for an unexpected depth. Not everyone’s favorite, so feel free to skip—or experiment with a tiny amount to see if it tickles your taste buds.
Sesame Oil: 🥄 This aromatic oil finishes the dish with a nutty richness. Toasted sesame is my preference for its bold flavor. A little goes a long way, so use it sparingly.
Green Onions: 🌱 Fresh, crisp, and adds a lovely pop of color. Scallions are a great substitute, and they bring a similar mild onion flavor that’s less pungent.
Sesame Seeds (Optional): ⚪ They add a lovely crunch and are a great source of healthy fats. I love sprinkling some over the top—just a small touch to make it look and taste extra special.

This combination of ingredients creates a symphony of flavors that make Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl a delightful and easy weeknight meal. Enjoy the cooking adventure!

Must-have tools for your kitchen adventure🍽️

An efficient kitchen makes cooking a breeze and enhances your culinary adventures. With the right tools, even an egg roll in a bowl becomes a masterpiece.

Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet ensures even heat distribution, crucial for browning meat and softening vegetables. In the absence of a large skillet, a deep frying pan or a wok works wonders.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for breaking up ground meat without scratching your cookware. If a wooden spoon’s not handy, a silicone spatula is a great alternative.
Sharp Knife: Essential for slicing cabbage if not using a coleslaw mix. A chef’s knife is ideal, but a good-quality paring knife can suffice for smaller tasks.
Measuring Spoons: Precision is key to flavor, especially with potent ingredients like sesame oil and spices. If measuring spoons are missing, use a regular teaspoon as a rough guide.

Equipping your kitchen with these essentials makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

How to whip up your egg roll bowl👩‍🍳

Step 1: Warm Up the Skillet and Begin Browning the Meat
Grab your trusty large, heavy-bottomed skillet and place it over medium heat. Once it’s warmed up, toss in your choice of lean ground beef, pork, or turkey. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks; you’re aiming for a lovely browned color. This is the foundation for all those delicious flavors to come.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
After the meat is nicely browned, drain off any excess grease to keep things light. Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 to 60 seconds. You’ll know it’s ready by that glorious aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Mix in the Cabbage
Now it’s time to bring in the coleslaw mix or your own finely sliced cabbage. Add it to the skillet and give everything a good mix so the cabbage is evenly combined with the meaty, garlicky goodness.
Step 4: Season the Dish
Pour the low sodium soy sauce or tamari over your mixture and make sure every bit of cabbage and meat gets evenly coated. Add the hot sauce, ground ginger, onion powder, and a pinch of cloves if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir everything together until the spices are well-distributed.
Step 5: Soften the Cabbage
Cover the skillet with a lid to keep in the moisture and let the cabbage steam until it softens, about 2 to 5 minutes. If you don’t have a lid, no worries—just add a splash of water to prevent sticking. Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook and become mushy.
Step 6: Finish with Sesame Oil
Once your cabbage is cooked just right, slide the skillet off the heat. Drizzle the toasted sesame oil over the top and toss everything to combine. This step adds a nutty depth that ties the dish together beautifully.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
Before you serve, have a taste and see if it needs a little more salt or an extra kick of hot sauce. This is your chance to tweak the flavors to your liking.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Spoon the mixture into bowls and sprinkle with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy your inside-out egg roll adventure!

Creative twists and tasty tweaks

For a gluten-free twist, I swapped the soy sauce for tamari, and it worked perfectly! The flavors melded beautifully, and my gluten-sensitive friend was over the moon. If you’re aiming for a vegan version, try using crumbled tofu instead of meat. I was pleasantly surprised by how well the tofu absorbed the flavors, making it a hit even among the non-vegans. For a low-carb delight, I reduced the coleslaw mix a bit and added spiralized zucchini, which gave it a fresh, crunchy texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, incorporate a splash of coconut milk and curry powder for a Thai-inspired spin—it was a delightful, warming surprise!

Creative ways to serve with flair!

Imagine serving your Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl in sleek, shallow bowls that showcase the vibrant colors of the dish. Add a dash of green with a sprinkle of freshly chopped scallions or cilantro on top. A few sesame seeds can give it that extra bit of flair, catching the light just right in a way that makes everyone hungry. Pair this delightful main with a side of steamed jasmine rice or crispy wonton strips for some textural crunch. How about a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar on the side? It’s refreshing and bright, balancing the hearty, savory notes of your main dish beautifully.

Perfect sips for your egg roll bowl

Whipping up an Inside Out Egg Roll in a Bowl can be a real treat, and when it comes to drink pairings, I have a few favorites. A crisp, chilled green tea always hits the spot, balancing out the savory flavors with its gentle astringency. It’s like a mini Zen moment in a cup. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more refreshing, a bubbly ginger ale is your go-to. The fizz and slight spice dance perfectly with the dish, making me think of a cheerful little party in my mouth. Who wouldn’t love that?

Keeping flavors fresh: storage and reheating tips

To store your Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl, pop leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It’ll stay fresh for up to four days. When you’re ready to reheat, the microwave is your best friend—just a minute or two, stirring halfway through. If you’re using the stove, heat it gently over medium, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Always ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to keep things safe. Remember, freezing can alter the texture, so enjoy it fresh if you can!

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Navigating the kitchen can be an adventure, especially with this Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe! One common misstep is overcooking the cabbage. It can quickly turn from crisp to limp. Aim to watch it closely as it wilts, leaving it slightly crunchy to keep that delightful texture.

Another hiccup? Skipping the step of draining excess grease from the meat. This can leave your dish too oily, which might overpower the flavors. Simply tilt the skillet and spoon out the extra liquid.

Some also forget to adjust the salt and spices at the end. Everyone’s taste buds are different, so take a moment to taste and tweak.

And lastly, don’t be shy with the sesame oil; it adds a wonderful depth of flavor. Happy cooking!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! This dish is quite versatile. You can easily swap out the ground beef for pork or turkey, or even go for a plant-based option if that suits your diet better.
What if I don’t have a lid for my skillet?
No worries at all. In this case, simply add about ¼ to ⅓ cup of water to prevent the cabbage from sticking to the pan, and let it steam until it’s the texture you prefer.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is quite mild with just a teaspoon of hot sauce, but you can always adjust it to your taste. Feel free to add more if you crave a little extra heat or leave it out entirely if you prefer.
Can I substitute the coleslaw mix with fresh cabbage?
Definitely! A coleslaw mix is just a convenience factor. If you have fresh cabbage, thinly slice about 6 cups, and you’re good to go.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Oh yes, it is perfect for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for a few days. Just be sure to let it cool before sealing it in an airtight container, and you’ll have a delicious, ready-to-eat meal for the week.

Wrapping it up with inside out flavor🎉

You’re all set to whip up a dish that’s not only delicious but also adaptable to however you’re feeling at the moment! Give the Inside Out Egg Roll In A Bowl a whirl, and don’t be shy—tweak it to suit your taste buds. Add a sprinkle of extra spice, or throw in some unique veggies to jazz it up. It’s all about making it your own and having fun in the process. So go ahead, dive in, and enjoy creating a culinary masterpiece that’s as unique as you are! Bon appétit!