Description

Egg Roll in a Bowl is a delightful and modern twist on the classic egg roll, perfect for those who love the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine but want a healthier and quicker option. By substituting the deep-fried wrapper with a scrumptious, veggie-packed bowl, this dish is not only lighter but also quick to prepare. Featuring crispy wontons, tender cabbage, vibrant carrots, and savory ground pork, each bite is bursting with flavor and texture, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or casual gatherings. The essence of egg rolls is captured beautifully, allowing everyone to enjoy the delicious combination of flavors without the guilt of frying. Whether you're in a rush or looking to enjoy a comforting meal, this recipe provides the perfect solution.

Ingredients

• 8 oz ground pork
• 2 cups shredded green cabbage (about half a small head)
• 1 large carrot, julienned or peeled into strips
• 1/2 red bell pepper, julienned (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced, plus more for garnish
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 quarter cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp sake or rice wine (optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp white sugar
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 quarter tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 quarter tsp white pepper or black pepper
• 1/2 tsp ketchup
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch
• 3-4 wonton wrappers, cut into 1/4 inch strips
• 1 tsp vegetable oil

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F (approximately 180°C). The first step is to prepare the wonton wrappers. Take about three to four wonton wrappers and cut them into strips that are 1/4 inch wide. Once cut, drizzle a little vegetable oil over the strips and toss them gently to ensure they are well coated. Arrange the strips on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Once done, set the crispy wonton strips aside, as they will serve as the crunchy topping for your bowl.

While the wontons are baking, it's the perfect time to prep the vegetables. For the cabbage, slice it thinly across the leaves into shreds. If you like, you can skip this step and use a pre-shredded coleslaw mix to save time. Next, julienne the large carrot into matchstick-sized pieces, or use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips. If you opted for the red bell pepper, julienne it as well. Slice the green onions and set aside, and remember to mince the garlic as well.

After preparing the vegetables, it's time to make the sauce that will bring all your ingredients together. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sake or rice wine (if using), sesame oil, white sugar, freshly grated ginger, cayenne pepper, white pepper, ketchup, and cornstarch. This mixture will add a rich and tangy flavor to your meal, making every bite delightful.

Now, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it's hot, add the ground pork. Cook the pork, breaking it up with a spatula so that it browns evenly. This should take about five minutes. The pork should no longer be pink and will begin to form a lovely golden crust.

As the pork finishes cooking, it's time to add the prepared vegetables to the skillet. Toss in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, red bell pepper (if using), minced garlic, and sliced green onions. Stir-fry the mixture for about one to two minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some crunch. This not only preserves the freshness of the ingredients but also ensures that your dish has a delightful texture.

Once the vegetables are slightly tender, pour the prepared sauce over the mixture in the skillet. Stir well to ensure that everything is coated with the sauce. Allow it to cook for one more minute or until the sauce has thickened and everything is heated through. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible at this point, and it will surely entice everyone to gather around the dinner table.

The final step is to assemble your Egg Roll in a Bowl masterpiece. Take a generous portion of the pork and vegetable mixture and transfer it to a serving bowl. Top it with the crispy wonton strips and sprinkle with any remaining green onions for garnish. Present it beautifully and watch as everyone digs in, enjoying the wonderful blend of flavors and textures that this dish offers.

Tips and Conclusion

To save time in your busy schedule, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop vegetables and prepare the sauce up to three days before you plan to serve this dish. Store the chopped components in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and cook the pork just before you're ready to enjoy the meal for maximum freshness and deliciousness.

Another helpful tip is to use a mandoline slicer or food processor to quickly shred your cabbage and carrots. This reduces prep time significantly and ensures you get consistent vegetable pieces. If you want a more budget-friendly option for protein, consider using a blend of ground pork and chicken or turkey. This allows you to enjoy the flavors while making it a bit lighter.

If you are unable to find sake or rice wine, don’t worry. You can substitute these with mirin, dry sherry, or simply leave it out entirely. This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
Egg Roll in a Bowl is a fresh, flavorful adaptation of a beloved classic. Not only does it provide a lighter option packed with nutritious vegetables and protein, but it also brings the delightful flavors of traditional egg rolls to your table without the hassle of frying. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with friends and family. Incorporate it into your meal rotation, and enjoy the compliments that come your way as everyone savor your delicious creation.