If you love the flavors of egg rolls but want a healthier, quicker option without the hassle of wrapping and frying, this Egg Roll Stir-Fry is the perfect solution. This dish captures the savory goodness of egg rolls in a simple, one-pan meal that’s ready in minutes. Packed with ground pork (or your choice of ground chicken or turkey), crisp cabbage, carrots, and a tangy soy-based sauce, this stir-fry delivers all the deliciousness you crave in a lighter, stir-fried form. It’s an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you want something tasty, nutritious, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken or turkey)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 4 cups shredded cabbage (about 1 small head or 1 pre-shredded bag)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions (scallions)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (for a touch of sweetness, if desired)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Meat:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add 1 pound of ground pork (or chicken or turkey). Cook the meat, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Once cooked, remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of shredded carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-5 minutes, until they are just tender but still have a bit of crunch. Add 1/2 cup of sliced green onions, reserving a small portion for garnish if desired.
- Combine and Season:
- Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in 1/4 cup of soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option), 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce (if using). Stir everything together, ensuring that the meat and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Finish with Sesame Oil:
- Drizzle 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the stir-fry and give it one final stir. This adds a rich, nutty flavor that’s characteristic of traditional egg rolls.
- Serve:
- When everything is evenly mixed and fully heated, take the skillet off the burner.
- Transfer the Egg Roll Stir-Fry to serving plates or bowls. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and the reserved green onions for an extra pop of flavor and texture.
- Optional Serving Suggestions:
- This Egg Roll Stir-Fry can be enjoyed on its own or served over a bed of steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a more substantial meal. You can also add a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion:
Egg Roll Stir-Fry is a delicious and innovative way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic egg roll without the extra work. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for those nights when you want something comforting and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of savory ground meat, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy, umami-rich sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Give this Egg Roll Stir-Fry a try, and enjoy a tasty, deconstructed version of your favorite takeout dish right at home.