Egg Roll in a Bowl with Frozen Coleslaw Mix
A budget-friendly take on egg rolls that's just as delicious without all the fuss.
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
25 mins
Servings
4
Difficulty
Easy
Nutrition Facts
250
Calories
18g
Protein
10g
Carbs
14g
Fat
Ingredients
- 8 oz ground pork (or turkey for leaner option)
- 1 cup frozen coleslaw mix (thawed and drained)
- 1/2 cup canned water chestnuts, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (for thickening)
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
- 1
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as you go.
- 2
Once the pork is cooked through, remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- 3
In the same pan, add onions and garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes or until fragrant and slightly softened.
- 4
Add the thawed coleslaw mix to the pan and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 5
Return the pork to the pan along with water chestnuts (if using), soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch mixture. Stir everything together until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- 6
Taste and add hot sauce if desired.
- 7
Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions.
So you're craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. And what better way to satisfy that egg roll craving without all the hassle of rolling and frying? Enter this Egg Roll in a Bowl with Frozen Coleslaw Mix! It’s like a shortcut straight from your favorite takeout menu, right into your belly.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Let's break it down: It’s idiot-proof—I mean, you just cook the pork, mix everything together, and serve. The end. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly because you’re using frozen coleslaw mix instead of buying all those veggies individually (and who has time for that?). And hey, if you’re trying to feed a family on a tight budget, this is your go-to dish. It's packed with protein and veggie goodness without breaking the bank.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not thawing your coleslaw mix—you’ll end up with a watery mess. Let it sit for 10 minutes or pat dry if you’re in a rush.
- Skipping the water chestnuts—they add that crunch and texture you love in egg rolls. If you skip them, your bowl won’t quite hit those spots.
- Using too much hot sauce—start with a little and taste as you go. You can always add more but it’s hard to take away once it’s there.
Alternatives & Substitutions
No ground pork? Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, slightly milder flavor.
No coleslaw mix? Use shredded cabbage and carrots instead. You can even add some bell peppers if you’re feeling adventurous.
Tofu instead of meat? Crumble it up and cook until golden before adding the rest of your ingredients. Perfect for a vegetarian version!
Not enough sauce? Mix more soy sauce with a little water to get that perfect tangy, savory flavor.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use margarine instead of butter in this recipe? Well, technically yes—but why hurt your soul like that when real butter makes everything taste better?
How long can I keep leftovers? If you have any (which is doubtful given how good it tastes), store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
Can I freeze this meal ahead of time? Absolutely! Once cooled, place portions in freezer-safe containers and defrost when needed. It’s great for those busy weeknights where cooking sounds like torture.
Final Thoughts
Look, I get it—sometimes you just want that taste of takeout without the price tag or guilt. This Egg Roll in a Bowl does exactly that. And hey, if you have kids (or a partner who thinks egg rolls are the epitome of dinner), this is an easy way to feed them something they’ll love and won’t know you didn’t slave over a stove for hours.
Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You've earned it!