A quick and healthy deconstructed egg roll dish packed with cabbage, carrots, ground meat, and bold Asian-inspired flavors. This recipe delivers all the taste of a traditional egg roll without the extra effort or carbs from the wrapper.
FULL RECIPE:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground meat (chicken, turkey, or pork)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: sesame seeds, for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, garlic, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and the onion softens.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the cabbage and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Combine and Serve: Pour the sauce over the stir fry and mix well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 433
- Total Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 76mg
- Sodium: 1392mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 29g
Why Egg Roll Stir Fry is a Must-Try Dish
Egg Roll Stir Fry is a delicious, deconstructed version of the traditional egg roll. It offers all the flavors of a classic egg roll but without the deep-fried wrapper, making it a much healthier alternative. This dish is packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a fantastic option for those looking to enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal. Whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free diet, this dish is an excellent choice. One of the main reasons why Egg Roll Stir Fry is so popular is its versatility. You can easily swap out ingredients to fit dietary preferences and customize it to your taste. It can be made with different types of protein, such as ground turkey, chicken, pork, or beef. Additionally, vegetarians can enjoy it by using tofu or plant-based meat substitutes. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and aromatics such as garlic and ginger gives this dish a rich, satisfying taste without the need for complicated ingredients.
Health Benefits of Egg Roll Stir Fry
Egg Roll Stir Fry is not just delicious it’s also incredibly nutritious. The combination of lean protein and fresh vegetables provides essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients necessary for a balanced diet. Below are some of the top health benefits of this dish:
- Rich in Protein: Protein is essential for muscle repair and growth. The ground meat in this dish provides a great source of high-quality protein, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
- Low in Carbs: Unlike traditional egg rolls, which have a high-carb wrapper, this stir fry is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent option for keto and low-carb diets.
- High in Fiber: Cabbage and carrots are packed with fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
- Loaded with Antioxidants: Garlic, ginger, and cabbage are rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect the body from harmful free radicals.
- Heart-Healthy: The use of sesame oil and lean meats ensures that this dish contains healthy fats that support heart health.
Variations and Customizations
One of the best things about Egg Roll Stir Fry is how adaptable it is. You can modify the recipe based on dietary needs, personal preferences, or available ingredients. Here are some variations to try:
- Vegetarian/Vegan Option: Swap the ground meat for tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add mushrooms to enhance the umami flavor.
- Spicy Version: If you love heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chili paste to amp up the spice.
- Different Proteins: Instead of ground pork, try using ground chicken, turkey, shrimp, or even thinly sliced beef.
- Extra Crunch: Top the dish with chopped peanuts, cashews, or crispy fried onions for added texture.
- Sauce Variations: Try experimenting with coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a soy-free option, or add a splash of hoisin sauce for a touch of sweetness.
How to Store and Reheat Egg Roll Stir Fry
Egg Roll Stir Fry is an excellent meal prep option because it stores well and can be easily reheated. If you make a large batch, follow these tips to keep it fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the stir fry to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in 30-second increments, stirring between each round.
Serving Suggestions
Egg Roll Stir Fry is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with other dishes for a complete meal. Here are some serving ideas:
- Over Rice: Serve it over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- With Noodles: Toss it with cooked noodles such as rice noodles, soba, or zucchini noodles for a different twist.
- As a Lettuce Wrap: Spoon the stir fry into crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh and crunchy way to enjoy it.
- With a Side Salad: A simple cucumber salad with sesame dressing pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Lifestyles
One of the biggest challenges of maintaining a healthy diet is finding meals that are both nutritious and easy to prepare. Egg Roll Stir Fry is the perfect solution because it comes together in just 30 minutes and requires minimal effort. For those who work long hours or have busy schedules, this dish is a lifesaver. It requires only one pan, which means fewer dishes to clean. Plus, the ingredients are budget-friendly and widely available, making it an excellent option for meal planning. Additionally, this recipe is great for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering, Egg Roll Stir Fry is sure to be a hit. You can easily double the recipe and adjust the seasoning to accommodate different preferences.
Conclusion
Egg Roll Stir Fry is a flavorful, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that has become a favorite in many households. With its high protein content, low-carb ingredients, and customizable nature, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep staple, or a healthier alternative to takeout, this recipe delivers both convenience and taste.