If you love the crispy, savory goodness of egg rolls but want a quicker, lighter twist, you’re going to adore this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe. It captures all the classic flavors you expect—juicy ground pork, crunchy cabbage, vibrant peppers, and that irresistible garlicky, ginger-infused sauce—all tossed together in one colorful skillet meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends with a delicious homemade dish, this stir fry brings together the heart of egg roll flavors without the fuss of wrapping and frying. Trust me, it’s pure comfort and freshness all in one pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the taste and texture just right in the Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe starts with a few simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the smoky sesame oil that brings nuttiness, to the crisp crunch of cabbage and the sweet hint of hoisin sauce that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- Ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef): The hearty protein base that absorbs the sauce and keeps the dish satisfying.
- Sesame oil: Adds an irresistible, toasty aroma that defines the stir fry’s character.
- Onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with pungent warmth and essential flavor.
- Shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix): Offers crunch and fresh green goodness that echoes classic egg rolls.
- Carrot, julienned or shredded: Brings a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- Bell pepper, sliced: Adds vibrant color and slight crispness—choose your favorite color.
- Soy sauce (or tamari): The savory umami that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Rice vinegar: Provides a bright tang to balance the richness.
- Hoisin sauce (optional): A touch of natural sweetness that elevates the dish.
- Ground ginger: Adds warmth and a hint of spice reminiscent of takeout favorites.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle heat kick if you like a little spice.
- Green onions, chopped: Fresh garnish to finish with a sharp, fresh bite.
- Sesame seeds (optional): A beautiful, nutty touch for topping.
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat
Begin by heating the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat—this aroma will get your kitchen buzzing with anticipation. Add the ground pork (or your choice of meat) and cook it thoroughly, breaking it up into small, bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. Once it’s nicely browned and no pink remains, drain any excess fat to keep your dish from becoming greasy and to let the fresh flavors shine.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the cooked meat. Stir these aromatics for 2 to 3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step is essential as it releases their natural sweetness and layers more complexity into the stir fry’s base.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables for a Crunchy Bite
Now, toss in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes, making sure the vegetables are tender but still hold a satisfying crunch. This contrast of textures brings the dish to life and gives it that classic egg roll crunch without frying.
Step 4: Whisk and Pour the Flavorful Sauce
While the vegetables are cooking, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl. Pour this vibrant mixture over the stir fry, tossing everything so each piece is evenly coated. Let it simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes to meld all those mouthwatering flavors together beautifully.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe by scattering chopped green onions and optional sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and burst of color. Serve it immediately, ideally over a bed of steamed rice or your favorite noodles, to soak up every last drop of that savory sauce. You’re in for a dish that’s fast, fresh, and bursting with all the flavors of your favorite appetizer in an easy, weeknight-friendly form.
How to Serve Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds not only elevate the look of your stir fry but add a subtle crunch and burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors. For a little extra zing, you might even add a drizzle of sriracha or a squeeze of lime on top.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs beautifully with simple steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. For something different, try serving it alongside garlic noodles or crispy wonton chips to keep that playful egg roll vibe going.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve the stir fry in lettuce cups or on a bed of crispy rice noodles for extra texture. You could also pack it into warm steamed bao buns, turning this quick meal into a handheld treat that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen, making it an excellent choice for next-day lunches or easy dinners.
Freezing
If you want to meal prep or save portions for later, freeze the cooled stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just avoid freezing with fresh garnishes so they stay crisp and fresh when you reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the stir fry gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method keeps the vegetables crispier than the microwave, which can sometimes make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins in this Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or beef are all fantastic substitutions that work just as well and give you the freedom to tailor the dish to your taste or dietary needs.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by swapping soy sauce with tamari and ensuring your hoisin sauce is gluten-free or omitted. This way, you keep all the flavor without worry.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth or a splash of water if needed when cooking to keep the flavors vibrant and rich. Adding mushrooms can also introduce an earthy depth.
How spicy is this stir fry?
It’s mild by default, but the crushed red pepper flakes allow you to add just the right hint of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount or omit it entirely for a kid-friendly version.
What’s the best way to shred cabbage quickly?
Using a food processor with a shredding blade speeds things up dramatically, but if you don’t have one, a sharp knife and a steady hand work just as well. The key is to keep the shreds thin so they cook evenly and maintain that delightful crunch.
Final Thoughts
This Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe is truly one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making again and again. It’s quick, packed with flavor, and effortlessly versatile whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Print
Egg Roll Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Egg Roll Stir Fry recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that captures the delicious flavors of classic egg rolls without the wrapper. Ground pork is stir-fried with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce made from soy, rice vinegar, and hoisin, delivering a perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy notes. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a family-friendly meal that pairs well with rice or noodles for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb ground pork (or chicken, turkey, or beef)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (or coleslaw mix)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned or shredded
- 1/2 cup sliced bell pepper (any color)
Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Additional Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat: Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground pork (or your chosen meat) and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula, until it is fully browned and no longer pink inside. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Cook the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the meat in the skillet. Stir frequently and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions have softened and become translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Add the Cabbage, Carrots, and Bell Pepper: Stir in the shredded cabbage, julienned carrot, and sliced bell pepper. Continue stir-frying the mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring often until the vegetables are tender but maintain a crisp texture.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the vegetables cook, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce (if using), ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes in a small bowl until well combined.
- Combine Sauce with Meat and Vegetables: Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the stir-fry mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is thoroughly coated in the flavorful sauce. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top for added texture and flavor. Serve immediately on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground pork with chicken, turkey, or beef depending on your preference or dietary needs.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure hoisin sauce is gluten-free or omit it.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spiciness level.
- This stir-fry is excellent for meal prep and reheats well the next day.
- Adding a splash of water or broth during cooking vegetables can help if the pan becomes dry.
