If you love the irresistible flavors of an egg roll but prefer a quicker, lighter option, the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is an absolute game changer. It captures all the savory goodness and crunch you adore from a classic egg roll, without the hassle of rolling or frying. This dish combines tender ground pork, crisp cabbage, and a medley of flavorful seasonings for a colorful, satisfying stir fry that comes together in just about 25 minutes. It’s perfect when you want dinner on the table fast but still crave those bold Asian-inspired tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are all easy to find and play distinct roles, from adding texture to bringing deep, savory notes. Each one works in harmony to create a dish that’s as balanced as it is delicious.
- Ground pork (1 pound): Provides the rich, meaty base with great flavor and protein; you can swap for chicken or turkey for a lighter touch.
- Sesame oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a nutty aroma and helps to cook ingredients evenly while infusing every bite with a subtle depth.
- Small onion, diced: Offers sweetness and a bit of crunch, rounding out the savory profile.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Crucial for that fragrant punch that wakes up the palate.
- Freshly grated ginger (1 tablespoon): Brings a zesty warmth that brightens the entire dish.
- Bag of coleslaw mix (14 oz): Combines shredded cabbage and carrots for crispness and vibrant color.
- Low-sodium soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Adds salty umami, anchoring all the flavors perfectly.
- Rice vinegar (1 tablespoon): Balances the savory with a mild tang, lifting the taste to the next level.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): Offers a touch of sweetness and complexity if you want an extra flavor punch.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (½ teaspoon, optional): For a little heat to warm things up, tailor to your liking.
- Salt and black pepper: Season to taste, enhancing all the natural ingredients.
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds: Perfect garnish that adds freshness and subtle crunch with each bite.
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground pork and cook it until nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a spoon to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring every bite is tender and full of flavor. This step creates the savory base of your stir fry and releases those mouthwatering aromas.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, toss in the diced onion, garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Stir and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until everything softens and fills your kitchen with that inviting fragrance. These aromatics add layers of flavor that make the dish so irresistible.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Pour in the coleslaw mix and cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage and carrots to get tender but still maintain a bit of crispness—that perfect bite that mimics the texture of an egg roll filling but healthier and fresher.
Step 4: Add Sauces and Seasoning
Mix in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce if using, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together and let it heat through so the flavors meld perfectly. Taste the stir fry and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This step really brings that signature egg roll flavor alive in stir fry form.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove your skillet from heat and sprinkle the stir fry with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. This final touch adds color, crunch, and freshness, making each forkful visually appealing and delightfully textured.
How to Serve Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds are classic garnishes that brighten each bite with sharpness and subtle nuttiness. You can also add thinly sliced fresh chili or a drizzle of sriracha if you love extra heat that contrasts the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
This dish stands beautifully on its own for a low-carb meal. However, pairing it with steamed jasmine rice, cauliflower rice, or even simple egg noodles will transform it into a filling feast. A crunchy Asian slaw or cucumber salad on the side adds a refreshing balance to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe in lettuce cups for a hands-on experience that mimics the feel of an egg roll without the wrapper. You can also spoon it over rice paper wraps or use it as a hearty filling for bao buns if you’re feeling adventurous.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to settle, making it taste even better the next day. Just be sure to cool it before storing to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for later. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat your Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe gently in a skillet over medium heat to revive the textures and flavors. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels dry, and stir until warmed thoroughly. Microwave works too, but a quick toss in a pan ensures the crispness stays intact.
FAQs
Can I make this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground pork for firm tofu or a mix of mushrooms for an earthy, vegetarian-friendly protein. Just make sure to crumble or chop tofu finely so it mixes well with the veggies and sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make it gluten-free by replacing soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. This switch keeps all the flavor while making it safe for gluten sensitivities.
What other proteins work well in this stir fry?
Ground chicken, turkey, or even finely chopped shrimp work wonderfully as alternatives. Each provides a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment according to your preferences.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is mild by default since red pepper flakes are optional and used sparingly. You can dial it up by adding more flakes or some fresh chilies, or tone it down by leaving the pepper out entirely.
Can I prepare part of this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can chop the vegetables and prep the aromatics a day ahead to save time during cooking. The ground meat is best cooked fresh to retain juiciness, but the rest will speed up your weeknight dinner preparation significantly.
Final Thoughts
Making the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe at home is like inviting a little joy and comfort straight to your dinner table with minimal fuss. It’s flavorful, adaptable, and fresh—a perfect go-to when you want something quick but totally satisfying. Give it a try and watch it become one of your favorite easy meals that everyone will ask for time and again!
