Pin it
This one-pan wonder captures all the bold, mouth-watering flavors of traditional egg rolls without the fuss of wrapping or deep frying. Combining succulent ground meat, crisp vegetables, and genuine Asian spices in a single skillet creates a filling meal that's nutritious and totally addictive. It's the perfect answer when you're craving takeout but want something faster, better for you, and fresher than anything that comes in a delivery container.
I first threw this together while trying to use up a half-empty bag of coleslaw about to spoil in my refrigerator. What began as a simple fridge-clearing meal quickly became a weekly family request. Even my husband who loves his carbs didn't miss the wrapper at all!
Key Ingredients
- Ground pork: The traditional option providing the ideal balance of meat and fat for optimal taste.
- Coleslaw mix: A convenient shortcut delivering perfectly shredded cabbage with zero chopping.
- Water chestnuts: They add that essential crunch that makes every bite so enjoyable.
- Fresh ginger and garlic: These aromatic basics build the genuine Asian flavor profile.
- Sesame oil: Adds that distinctive nutty taste that ties everything together.
- Hoisin sauce: Balances the dish with deep flavor and subtle sweetness.
Preparation Steps
Build your flavor foundation: Heat sesame oil, sauté onion until translucent.
Brown your meat thoroughly: Cook pork until golden and no pink remains.
Activate your aromatics: Add garlic and ginger, stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Create your sauce blend: Add rice wine vinegar to deglaze the pan, then mix in soy sauce, hoisin, and sriracha.
Incorporate your vegetables: Add coleslaw mix and carrots, toss until they start to wilt.
Monitor your timing: Cook everything 5-7 minutes until vegetables soften but maintain some texture.
Apply final elements: Garnish with green onion slices, scatter sesame seeds, and drizzle with sriracha mayo if desired.
Pause briefly: Let the dish rest momentarily so flavors can blend together.
Pin it
Balancing Traditional Tastes
Genuine egg rolls combine savory, sweet and umami elements, which we mirror here using hoisin, soy sauce, and ground meat, with vinegar adding a hint of tang.
Crunch Factor Matters
The mix of soft meat, slightly firm cabbage, and snappy water chestnuts delivers that true egg roll experience.
Cut Down Your Kitchen Time
Having your garlic chopped, ginger shredded, and green onions cut beforehand can help you assemble this dinner in under 20 minutes.
Family-Friendly Adjustments
Serve the main dish mild and offer spicy condiments like chili oil or sriracha at the table so everyone can customize their heat preference.
Great For Advance Prep
This mixture actually gets more flavorful overnight as the seasonings meld together in the refrigerator.
Nutritional Perks
You'll benefit from cabbage's fiber and nutrients, quality protein, and far fewer calories without the fried wrapper.
Repurpose Your Extras
Transform leftovers into stuffed peppers, lettuce wraps, or a protein-packed salad topper.
Pin it
This dish represents everything wonderful about cooking at home – it's straightforward, delicious, wholesome, and incredibly versatile. Whether you're cooking for a busy household or prepping meals for your upcoming week, this recipe shines in both ease and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I make this without using meat?
- No problem. Use crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based protein option instead. Vegan? Check your mayo and hoisin sauce ingredients to make sure they’re good to go.
- → What’s the best way to store and reheat it?
- Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, use the microwave for a minute or two, or toss it in a skillet over medium heat. Add fresh spicy mayo after you’ve reheated it.
- → What if I don’t have water chestnuts?
- No worries! Swap them with diced jicama for crunch, or try celery, peppers, or just leave them out—it’ll still taste great.
- → What side dishes work with this?
- This is great on its own, but you can pair it with rice, cauliflower rice, or a small cucumber salad. Edamame also makes a great side.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
- If you want less spice, reduce the sriracha or switch to sweet chili sauce. Want it hotter? Add more sriracha, red chili flakes, or fresh chopped chilies when cooking.