This dish takes me back to a time when my husband and I were trying to juggle our chaotic schedules, hauling the kids to and fro, and still wanting to sit down to a delicious and nourishing meal. We stumbled upon this recipe one Sunday afternoon, and it’s been a constant in our meal prep rotation ever since. Imagine the delight of tickling your taste buds with flavors that mimic an egg roll without having to deep fry anything. The ground beef combined with crispy cabbage and the warmth of fresh ginger and garlic makes it a winner every single time — it’s just one of those meals that screams comfort and simplicity in every bite.
What’s even better? This Egg Roll Stir Fry is as customizable as it gets. During one particularly frantic evening when we were short of a few ingredients, I swapped in whatever veggies I happened to have on hand, and it was still a hit! Sometimes, I even add a little Sriracha for a spicy kick, depending on how adventurous we’re feeling. You’ll find that this dish is incredibly forgiving that way. Perfect for those who love cooking without strict rules, don’t you think?
So, whether you’re battling through a hectic work week or planning a get-together with loved ones, this Egg Roll Stir Fry never fails. It’s effortless, quick, and filled with flavor — and honestly, isn’t that what we all need from a dish? Alright then, let’s get cooking!
How to Make Egg Roll Stir Fry
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Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs. lean ground beef
- 1 large green cabbage, finely shredded
- 3 small carrots, peeled and sliced into matchsticks
- 6-8 green onions, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce, coconut aminos, or Bragg’s liquid aminos
- 2 Tbsps toasted sesame seeds
Directions:
- Blend the minced garlic, freshly grated ginger, sesame oil, and your choice of soy sauce, coconut aminos, or Bragg’s liquid aminos in a small bowl, setting it aside for later use.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Crumble the ground beef into the skillet, cooking it thoroughly until it’s browned, using a wooden spoon to break it into smaller pieces.
- Introduce the sliced matchstick carrots, the chopped green onions, and the finely shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3 minutes, allowing them to begin softening.
- Add the prepared sauce mixture to the skillet, continuing to stir-fry for another 4 minutes or until the vegetables reach a tender-crisp consistency.
- To serve, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over each portion, with the option of adding extra green onions if preferred.
- For meal prep, distribute the stir fry into four containers; it will remain fresh in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days.
Ingredient Tweaks for Your Pantry
Don’t worry if you’re low on ground beef; ground turkey or chicken works just as well. If sesame oil isn’t within reach, olive oil can step in while maintaining that needed flavor. Veggie-wise, swap out cabbage with kale or Brussels sprouts for a different texture, and you can substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Best Ways to Store Leftover Egg Roll Stir Fry
This Egg Roll Stir Fry is a breeze to store. Simply portion leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate them. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to five days. If you’re planning beyond that, freeze individual portions. Before eating, allow time for thawing overnight and reheat over the stove to maintain the stir fry’s delightful texture.
From Sides to Drinks: What Complements Egg Roll Stir Fry
Serve this stir fry with a side of steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to round out a meal. A chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the savory and slightly spicy notes beautifully. If you’re feeling festive, a drizzle of spicy mayo over the top adds a restaurant-quality touch to your dish.
Mastering the Art of Egg Roll Stir Fry
To ensure that your stir fry is cooked to perfection, use a hot wok or skillet and maintain a consistent medium-high heat throughout. This prevents the veggies from becoming soggy. If you prefer more crunch, reduce cooking time. For enhanced flavor, marinate the ground beef for 15 minutes in a blend of soy sauce and ginger before cooking.
Seasonal Twists for Egg Roll Stir Fry
Tweak your stir fry according to the seasons! In summer, throw in bell peppers and zucchini for a splash of color. Come winter, heartier selections like butternut squash or sweet potatoes can enrich the mix. Spring invites asparagus and snap peas, while autumn allows for a pumpkin or apple twist—both adding depth and warmth.
FAQs:
Can I use a vegetarian substitute for the ground beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with plant-based proteins such as tofu crumbles or tempeh for equally satisfying results. Saute them until browned, ensuring they absorb the flavorful sauce, maintaining the dish’s delicious essence.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without losing flavor?
For best results, reheat your stir fry in a skillet over medium heat. This revives the crispness of vegetables while keeping the beef tender. You can add a splash of soy sauce or water to restore moisture and keep those flavors locked in.
Is there a low-carb version of this recipe?
If you’re aiming to limit carbs, consider swapping standard cabbage for finely shredded napa cabbage and carrots with either zoodles or sliced mushrooms. This will lower the carbohydrate count while preserving the dish’s satisfying texture and flavors.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh garlic on hand?
No worries if you’re out of fresh garlic! Digest a teaspoon of garlic powder or minced garlic from a jar instead. Both alternatives will lend your stir fry the garlicky delight we all crave.
Is it possible to make this dish in advance for a party?
Certainly! This dish is perfect for prepping ahead, allowing you to cook everything fully and let flavors meld by covering and refrigerating it hours before serving. Just reheat gently before your guests arrive, and you’re set for a tasty, stress-free spreading.
How can I make the recipe spicier?
For a kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when stir-frying. Adjust according to your heat tolerance, and consider topping with sliced jalapenos as an extra zesty garnish. Remember, balancing heat with the savory elements keeps it enjoyable.
Egg Roll Stir Fry
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs. lean ground beef
- 1 large green cabbage finely shredded
- 3 small carrots peeled and sliced into matchsticks
- 6-8 green onions chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 4-5 cloves fresh garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp freshly grated ginger
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos, or Bragg's liquid aminos
- 2 Tbsps toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and soy sauce. Set aside for later use.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon until it’s thoroughly browned.
- Add matchstick carrots, green onions, and shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Introduce the soy sauce mixture to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 4 minutes or until the veggies are tender yet still crisp.
- Serve individual portions topped with toasted sesame seeds and additional green onions if desired.
- This recipe is great for meal prep—portion it into containers and keep in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
