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Egg roll in a bowl is my favorite busy night dinner solution when I crave something cozy without all the prep. It comes together fast in one skillet while filling the kitchen with the comforting aromas of ginger and garlic. This version is lighter than traditional fried egg rolls but still delivers all the flavors you love. Cleanup is finished in a snap and everyone leaves the table full and happy
The first time I made this was after a long workday and I was amazed at how it felt like takeout but a little healthier. Now it is in our regular dinner rotation and even picky eaters love it
Ingredients
- Mazola corn oil or other neutral oil: helps everything cook evenly and adds a little richness
- Small yellow onion, diced: for sweet flavor as the base layer choose one that feels heavy for its size
- Fresh ginger, minced: gives the signature warmth use a piece with thin skin for maximum freshness
- Garlic, minced: deepens the savory flavor and adds a punch taste your garlic before using to make sure it is mild and fresh
- Ground turkey: lean but still tender and perfect for soaking up flavors select ground dark meat for extra juiciness
- Bagged coleslaw mix: saves time and adds crunch look for one with a mix of green and purple cabbage plus carrots
- Soy sauce: brings salty umami complexity opt for low sodium if you prefer to control the salt level
- Green onions, chopped: for a pop of color and lightness pick ones with crisp white bulbs and deep green tops
- Salt and pepper to taste: always taste before adding since soy sauce is already salty
- Optional duck sauce or cauliflower rice: gives you restaurant flair without extra work
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Skillet
- Pour the oil into a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Add half of the ginger half of the garlic and the diced onion. Cook for about four minutes stirring from time to time until the onion is soft and golden. This slow build gives your whole dish a flavor foundation that cannot be rushed
- Brown the Turkey
- Add the ground turkey directly to the aromatics. Use a sturdy spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Keep stirring and scraping the bottom so the meat browns evenly. Continue until the turkey is fully cooked with no pink spots left
- Add the Veggies and Sauce
- Pour the coleslaw mix into the skillet along with the remaining ginger garlic and soy sauce. Mix everything well so the veggies mingle with the savory turkey. Let it cook over medium low heat stirring every minute or so for several minutes until the cabbage is tender but still a little snappy
- Finish and Serve
- Taste your mixture to check seasoning. Add another splash of soy sauce if it needs a boost. Scatter chopped green onions over the top for freshness. Serve right away over cauliflower rice if you love extra veggies and add a drizzle of duck sauce for that classic egg roll flavor
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My favorite part is always the green onion topping since it wakes up the whole dish with a mild bite. The first time my family tried this we ended up eating straight from the skillet because we could not resist the steam and smell
Storage Tips
This meal stores beautifully in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it in a skillet over low heat to keep the veggies from getting mushy. You can also freeze portions for up to one month but leave off the green onions until serving for best results
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground chicken or pork both work well in place of turkey depending on what you have. Coconut aminos can swap for soy sauce if you prefer gluten free. If you do not have a coleslaw mix slice your own cabbage and carrots thinly—just use about six cups total
Serving Suggestions
Spoon your egg roll bowl over steamed cauliflower rice white rice or brown rice for a heartier dinner. Add a side of spicy chili crisp or quick pickled cucumbers for a fun twist. It is also delicious scooped into lettuce cups for light handheld bites
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A Taste of Tradition
Egg roll in a bowl is inspired by classic Chinese American egg rolls but skips the wrappers and deep frying. It is a great way to enjoy those nostalgic flavors in a lighter form. Dishes like this show how much comfort food can evolve to fit our busy lives without sacrificing taste
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I substitute ground turkey with another protein?
Yes, ground chicken, beef, or even firm tofu work well for this dish and add their own unique flavor.
- → How can I make this meal vegetarian?
Swap ground turkey for crumbled firm tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian soy sauce for a meatless option.
- → What sides pair well with this skillet meal?
Cauliflower rice, steamed jasmine rice, or even lettuce cups all pair nicely and balance the flavors.
- → Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! It reheats well and flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for lunches or next-day dinners.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Certainly! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded carrots are delicious additions for extra color and nutrition.