This Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl is a nutrient packed twist on the classic takeout favorite. Made with fresh cabbage, carrots, and your choice of protein, this dish delivers the same great taste of an egg roll without the wrapper! A simple blend of coconut aminos, sesame oil, and garlic gives it a savory, umami rich flavor that keeps you coming back for more.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easily customizable swap the protein, adjust the spice level, or throw in extra veggies to make it your own. Whether you’re following a paleo, gluten free, or low carb lifestyle, this bowl is a flavorful, satisfying meal you’ll love!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 head of cabbage, sliced into strips
- 3 large carrots, grated
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/3 cup coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 lb ground organic beef, turkey, or chicken (or sub shrimp, tofu, or another protein)
- 5 green onions, chopped
- Sea salt + black pepper, to taste
- Dash of red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add avocado oil.
- Once hot, add cabbage and stir to coat in oil.
- Stir in carrots and cook for about 5 minutes until veggies are slightly softened, stirring frequently.
- Add garlic, coconut aminos, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Allow to cook until the veggies are soft. Remove them from the pan and set them aside in a large bowl, leaving any remaining sauce behind.
- In the same pan, add ground meat and season with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink. If using a different protein, cook accordingly (add oil if necessary).
- Strain the cooked protein, then mix it with the veggies in the bowl.
- Stir in green onions and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 310 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl: A Healthy and Flavorful Takeout Alternative
Introduction
If you love the flavors of a traditional egg roll but want a healthier, more nutritious version, the Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl is the perfect solution. This dish takes all the best elements of a classic egg roll the savory filling, the crunchy cabbage, and the delicious seasonings and transforms them into a wholesome, one pan meal. It’s an easy, quick, and satisfying dish that fits well into paleo, gluten free, and low carb diets while still being packed with flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, a meal prep friendly recipe, or just an easy way to satisfy your takeout cravings, this recipe has you covered. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap in different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand. Plus, it’s a great way to get in extra servings of veggies without even thinking about it!
In this article, we’ll dive into what makes this recipe so special, why it’s a great alternative to traditional takeout, and some tips for making it even more delicious.
Why Choose a Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl?
Many people love the taste of egg rolls, but the deep fried wrapper and high carb content can make them less than ideal for a healthy lifestyle. This recipe offers a lighter, nutrient-dense version that delivers the same great flavors with none of the guilt. Here’s why this dish is a fantastic alternative to traditional egg rolls:
1. Healthy and Nutrient-Dense
This dish is packed with fiber-rich vegetables, high-quality protein, and healthy fats, making it a well balanced meal. Cabbage and carrots provide essential vitamins and minerals, while coconut aminos and sesame oil add depth of flavor without the need for unhealthy additives.
2. Paleo and Gluten-Free Friendly
Unlike traditional egg rolls, which use wheat based wrappers, this dish is entirely gluten-free and paleo-approved. If you’re following a whole foods diet or avoiding grains and processed ingredients, this recipe is a perfect fit.
3. Low in Carbs, High in Flavor
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, this meal is an excellent choice. It replaces high carb egg roll wrappers with nutrient dense cabbage, keeping the dish light yet filling. Plus, the natural flavors of the ingredients shine through, creating a satisfying meal without the need for added sugar or artificial seasonings.
4. Quick and Easy to Make
With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish is a lifesaver for busy nights. It’s a one-pan recipe, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. The simple cooking process makes it great for beginners and experienced home cooks alike.
5. Great for Meal Prep
This dish stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent meal-prep option. You can make a batch in advance and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as tasty as the freshly made version.
Versatility: Make It Your Own!
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can tweak the ingredients based on your dietary needs, taste preferences, or whatever you have in your fridge. Here are some ways to customize your Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl:
Protein Options
- Ground Chicken or Turkey: Leaner options that still provide plenty of protein.
- Ground Beef: Adds richness and extra flavor. Opt for grass fed beef for the best quality.
- Shrimp: A lighter seafood alternative that pairs beautifully with the seasonings.
- Tofu or Tempeh: A great plant based alternative for vegetarians and vegans.
Vegetable Variations
- Red or Green Bell Peppers: Add a touch of sweetness and extra crunch.
- Mushrooms: Bring an earthy, umami depth to the dish.
- Zucchini or Broccoli: Great for adding more variety to your veggie intake.
Spice it Up!
If you like a little heat, consider adding:
- Red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Sriracha or chili paste for extra spice.
- Fresh ginger for warmth and depth of flavor.
How This Dish Compares to Traditional Egg Rolls
| Feature | Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl | Traditional Egg Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Method | Stir fried | Deep fried |
| Carbohydrate Content | Low carb (no wrapper) | High carb (flour based wrapper) |
| Protein Choices | Customizable (beef, turkey, chicken, tofu, etc.) | Usually pork or chicken |
| Nutritional Value | High in fiber, vitamins, and protein | Higher in fat, processed ingredients |
| Meal Prep Friendly? | Yes, stores well for days | Best eaten fresh |
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This dish is delicious on its own, but if you want to make it a complete meal, consider pairing it with:
Sides
- Cauliflower Rice: Keeps it low carb and paleo friendly while adding extra texture.
- Zucchini Noodles: A light and fresh addition to balance the savory flavors.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice or Brown Rice: For those who want extra carbs for energy.
Toppings and Garnishes
- Sesame Seeds: Adds a slight crunch and nuttiness.
- Sliced Avocado: Provides creaminess and healthy fats.
- Fresh Cilantro or Thai Basil: Enhances the dish with a burst of freshness.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice brightens the flavors.
Tips for the Best Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl
- Use a Large Pan: Cabbage takes up a lot of space before it wilts, so use a big skillet or wok to make stirring easier.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: For the best texture, cook the cabbage and carrots until just tender, but still slightly crisp.
- Let the Protein Absorb the Flavors: Cooking the meat in the leftover sauce from the vegetables helps it soak up all the delicious seasonings.
- Taste and Adjust: Since different brands of coconut aminos and sesame oil vary in saltiness and intensity, taste your dish as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.
- Make It in Bulk: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days, so make extra for easy meals throughout the week.
Conclusion:
The Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl is a game changer for anyone looking for a healthy, easy to make alternative to traditional takeout. With its bold flavors, high nutritional value, and quick cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or simply satisfying your cravings for classic Asian inspired flavors.
What makes this recipe even better is its versatility you can switch up the protein, add different vegetables, or spice it up to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re following a paleo, keto, gluten free, or low carb lifestyle, this dish is a delicious way to enjoy the essence of an egg roll without the deep-fried wrapper.
Next time you’re in the mood for something comforting yet healthy, give this Paleo Egg Roll in a Bowl a try. It’s a dish you’ll find yourself making again and again!