Enjoy all the beloved flavors of a classic egg roll without the wrapper. This quick stir-fry combines savory ground pork with crisp coleslaw mix, aromatic ginger and garlic, all coated in a tangy sesame-ginger sauce. Ready in just 25 minutes, this Asian-inspired skillet dish is naturally keto and low-carb while remaining incredibly satisfying.
The ground pork provides rich protein and flavor, while the shredded cabbage and carrots deliver that essential crunch. The simple sauce comes together with soy sauce, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil for that perfect balance of salty, sweet, and nutty. Customize with your favorite toppings like sesame seeds, green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
This versatile dish works perfectly for meal prep and actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Serve it alone for a light meal or pair with cauliflower rice for something more substantial.
The first time I made this, my husband looked at the bubbling skillet with genuine confusion. "Where are the wrappers?" he asked, as if I'd somehow forgotten the most important part. Five minutes later, he was too busy stuffing his face to care about technicalities anymore.
My friend Sarah came over for what she thought would be an elaborate cooking lesson. Instead, I showed her how to dump everything in one pan while we caught up about her new job. She texted me at 10 PM that night to say she'd already made it again for herself.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork: I love pork for its richness but turkey works beautifully if you want something lighter
- 4 cups coleslaw mix: The pre shredded cabbage saves you precious minutes and stays perfectly crisp tender
- 1/2 small onion: Dice it small so it melts into the background instead of staying chunky
- 2 cloves garlic: Fresh is non negotiable here bottled garlic just tastes sad in comparison
- 1-inch fresh ginger: Grate it right into the pan for the most vibrant punch possible
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari: This is your flavor foundation so use the good stuff if you can
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar: Just enough brightness to cut through all that rich pork
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil: Do not even think about skipping this it makes the whole dish sing
- Green onions: Save some for the end because that fresh onion pop is essential
Instructions
- Brown the pork:
- Crank your skillet to medium high and let the pork get golden and crumbly breaking it up with your spatula as it goes. Drain the fat if there is an alarming amount but leave a little for flavor.
- Add the aromatics:
- Toss in your onion garlic and ginger and let them soften for just two minutes until your kitchen starts smelling like a restaurant.
- Make it saucey:
- Whisk together your soy sauce rice vinegar sesame oil and peppers then pour it over the whole mess. Toss it like your life depends on it and let it bubble for another minute.
- Finish with flair:
- Squeeze in some lime juice if you are feeling fancy then shower it with green onions sesame seeds and whatever else makes you happy.
My mom originally turned her nose up at this deconstructed version. Now she keeps a bag of coleslaw mix in her fridge at all times just in case the craving hits.
Making It Your Own
Throw in some bell peppers or snap peas if you need more color. I have discovered that sliced water chestnuts add this incredible crunch that nobody can quite identify.
Meal Prep Magic
This actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to mingle in the fridge. Just keep the toppings separate until you are ready to eat so nothing gets sad and soggy.
Serving Ideas
Cauliflower rice is the obvious choice but I have been known to eat it straight from the pan standing at the stove.
- Fried eggs on top turn this into breakfast faster than you can say genius
- Wrap it in butter lettuce cups for something closer to the original experience
- Extra sriracha is never a mistake not even a little one
Sometimes the simplest dinners are the ones that end up in permanent rotation. This one certainly earned its spot in mine.
Recipe FAQs
- → Is this dish keto-friendly?
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Yes, this egg roll in a bowl is naturally keto-friendly with only 7 grams of carbohydrates per serving. The coleslaw mix provides fiber and crunch without the carbs, while ground pork offers protein and healthy fats to keep you satisfied.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
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Absolutely. This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and actually tastes better as the flavors have time to meld together. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
- → What can I serve with egg roll in a bowl?
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Enjoy it on its own for a light meal, or serve over cauliflower rice for a more substantial dinner. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple cucumber salad for a complete Asian-inspired spread.
- → Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork?
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Yes, ground turkey or chicken work beautifully as lighter alternatives. They're leaner than pork, so you may want to add a teaspoon of oil when cooking to prevent sticking and maintain richness.
- → How do I make this dish gluten-free?
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Simply substitute the soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both provide that salty umami flavor without gluten. Always check your other ingredients like rice vinegar to ensure they're certified gluten-free if needed.
- → Can I add more vegetables?
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Certainly. Diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or water chestnuts all complement the flavors well. Add heartier vegetables like peppers along with the onions, and quick-cooking veggies like snap peas when you add the coleslaw mix.