Craving the satisfying crunch and flavorful goodness of egg rolls but want a healthier, lighter option? Then you've come to the right place! This vegetarian Egg Roll in a Bowl recipe delivers all the deliciousness of your favorite takeout without the guilt. It's packed with fresh vegetables, savory spices, and a vibrant, umami-rich sauce – all ready in under 30 minutes! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies into your diet. Get ready to experience a delicious and healthy homemade meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shredded cabbage (green or Napa)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
- Cooked brown rice or quinoa, for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add the shredded carrots, cabbage, sliced mushrooms, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 3: Create the Savory Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat, and let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the egg roll in a bowl over a bed of cooked brown rice or quinoa. Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Egg Roll in a Bowl:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.
- Adjust the spices to your liking: Feel free to add more or less ginger, red pepper flakes, or soy sauce based on your preference.
- Add protein: For a heartier meal, add cooked tofu, chickpeas, or edamame.
- Make it ahead: This recipe is great for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for several days.
Delicious Variations:
- Peanut Sauce: Substitute the soy sauce mixture with your favorite peanut sauce for a completely different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
- More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy, such as broccoli florets, snow peas, or zucchini.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size. A general estimate is around 300-350 calories, with a good source of fiber and vitamins. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredient quantities.
This easy and delicious vegetarian egg roll in a bowl recipe is a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. It's a satisfying, flavorful, and quick dinner solution perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and let us know what you think!