If you are looking for a fresh and exciting way to enjoy the classic flavors of your favorite appetizer, this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is a true game-changer. Bursting with colorful vegetables, savory ground meat, and that unmistakable blend of soy and sesame, it brings the delicious essence of an egg roll to your dinner plate without the hassle of frying or wrapping. Simple, quick, and packed with flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something comforting yet vibrant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe plays an important role in building a balanced and mouthwatering dish. From the tender, protein-packed ground meat to the crisp fresh veggies and the bold, umami-rich sauces, every component is essential for that perfect combo of colors, textures, and flavors.
- 1 pound ground meat: Choose chicken, turkey, or pork for juicy, flavorful protein that forms the base of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Needed for sautéing your ingredients evenly and keeping everything from sticking.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, softening nicely when cooked.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a fragrant kick that wakes up all the other flavors.
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger: Adds a warm, slightly spicy brightness to complement the garlic.
- 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced: Provides a satisfying crunch and fresh, mild flavor.
- 2 medium carrots, shredded: Adds a pop of color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- ¼ cup soy sauce: The salty, savory backbone that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Offers a rich, nutty aroma that elevates the dish’s authenticity.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: Brings a subtle tang to balance the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat that adds complexity without overpowering.
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Fresh, mildly sharp notes to finish with a pop of color.
- Optional: sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds texture and extra visual appeal.
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat of your choice and cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart into crumbles as it browns. This step is crucial because browning the meat develops rich, savory flavors that form the hearty foundation of your stir fry. Once done, remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside to make room for the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté it for 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes until their fragrances fill your kitchen. This combination infuses the dish with aromatic notes that perfectly balance the protein.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Carrots
Next, add the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrots to the skillet. Cook them together for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently. You want the veggies to soften a bit but still retain a satisfying crunch, which adds a refreshing bite and gorgeous color contrast to the dish.
Step 4: Combine Meat and Sauce
Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet and pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and if you like a little heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together thoroughly so each bite is bursting with flavor. Let the mixture cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce is well absorbed and the stir fry is heated through completely.
Step 5: Final Touches
To finish, remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle sliced green onions on top along with a few sesame seeds if using. These garnishes add a fresh crunch and a lovely visual appeal that make this simple Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe feel extra special and inviting.
How to Serve Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions and sesame seeds are perfect finishing touches, lending freshness and nuttiness. You can also add a drizzle of extra sesame oil or a squeeze of lime for an added zing. These small details bring extra layers of flavor and texture, making your stir fry truly shine.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up all those delicious juices. For a lower-carb option, try serving it alongside cauliflower rice or even wrapped in lettuce leaves for hand-held bites reminiscent of egg roll wraps.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe in crispy wonton cups or over a bed of crunchy noodles for added texture. You can even use it as a filling for lettuce wraps or tortilla wraps, turning the flavors of a classic appetizer into a fresh, customizable meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Egg Roll Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or quick lunches during busy days.
Freezing
This stir fry freezes quite well. Allow it to cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, so you have a tasty homemade meal ready whenever you need it.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftover or frozen Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe, reheat thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry to help restore moisture and stir frequently for even warming without losing the texture of the vegetables.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground chicken, turkey, or pork are fantastic choices, you can also experiment with ground beef or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking times as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional soy sauce contains gluten, but you can easily substitute it with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce to make the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to the stir fry?
Yes! Feel free to include bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or bean sprouts to add more variety and nutrition. Just be mindful of cooking times to keep the vegetables crisp-tender.
How spicy is this dish?
The level of heat depends on whether you add crushed red pepper flakes, which you can adjust or omit according to your spice preference. The dish is mild by default but has plenty of room for a little kick if you like.
What can I serve this with to make it a complete meal?
Pairing the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe with cooked rice, noodles, or fresh lettuce wraps makes for a satisfying, balanced meal. Adding a simple soup or a light salad on the side also complements the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about the familiar flavors of an egg roll without the fuss of frying or making dough. This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is a lovely, easy way to bring those enticing tastes to your table in a fresh, wholesome format. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how quickly it can become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Egg Roll Stir Fry is a quick and flavorful skillet dish inspired by classic egg roll fillings. Ground meat is cooked with aromatics and combined with crisp, shredded cabbage and carrots, all tossed in a savory soy-based sauce with a touch of sesame oil and rice vinegar. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that brings the beloved flavors of egg rolls to your dinner plate without the fuss of wrapping or frying.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound ground meat (chicken, turkey, or pork)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 medium carrots, shredded
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauce and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Optional: sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes. Once fully cooked and no longer pink, remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage and Carrots: Stir in the shredded carrots and sliced cabbage. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables have softened but still maintain a slight crunch, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Meat and Sauce: Return the cooked ground meat to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat. Garnish the stir fry with sliced green onions and optional sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground meat with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to control spice level or omit if you prefer no heat.
- Serve the stir fry over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews as garnish.
- Make sure not to overcook cabbage to retain some crunch.
