Deconstructed egg rolls are a vibrant twist on the classic dish that perfectly captures all the flavors of traditional egg rolls without the fuss of wrapping and frying. Picture a colorful bowl brimming with tender vegetables, savory meat, and a fragrant sauce that ties it all together. This meal not only looks inviting but also bursts with flavor in every bite.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Deconstructed Egg Rolls
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Deconstructed Egg Rolls

I first stumbled upon this dish during a busy weeknight when I craved something quick yet delicious. It quickly became a family favorite, satisfying our taste buds while allowing us to enjoy wholesome ingredients without endless prep time. Deconstructed egg rolls offer everything you love about the classic version—crunchy veggies, seasoned meat, and that umami kick—making it a truly irresistible choice!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both savory and aromatic.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant colors from cabbage, carrots, and green onions make this dish visually appealing and fun to eat.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a hearty dinner or a delightful snack, and it’s great for meal prepping.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 tbsp avocado oil: A heart-healthy oil that provides a high smoke point for sautéing; can substitute with olive or canola oil if needed.
4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aromatic flavor; feel free to use garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
3 tbsp fresh ginger (minced or grated): Adds a zesty kick; powdered ginger can be used, but fresh is much more vibrant.
1 lb ground pork (or ground beef): A protein base that’s juicy and flavorful; you can also try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
1 tsp sea salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish; adjust according to your taste.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of heat; increase if you prefer a spicier flavor.
6 cups shredded coleslaw mix: This mix brings crunch and color; alternatively, chopped cabbage and carrots will work just fine.
1/4 cup coconut aminos: A soy sauce alternative that is soy-free and lower in sodium; replace with low-sodium soy sauce if you don’t need it gluten-free.
2 tsp toasted sesame oil: An essential ingredient for that distinct nutty flavor; avoid using regular sesame oil as it’s not the same.
1/4 cup green onions: Bright and refreshing, they add a pop of color to the dish; you may substitute with chives if green onions aren’t available.
Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): A lovely finishing touch for presentation and crunch!

How to Make Deconstructed Egg Rolls

Heat Oil: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of avocado oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. This high-quality oil helps achieve the perfect sauté without burning.

Sauté Aromatics: Once the oil is hot, toss in the 4 minced garlic cloves and the 3 tablespoons of minced ginger. Make sure to sauté for about a minute until fragrant. The scent will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Cook the Meat: Next, add in 1 pound of ground pork (or beef) into the skillet. Season it with 1 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Increase the heat to medium-high and let it brown for about 7-10 minutes. If there’s excess oil, feel free to drain it off before proceeding.

Add Vegetables: After the meat is browned, reduce the heat to medium. Add 6 cups of shredded coleslaw mix and 1/4 cup of coconut aminos. Stir everything together so the coleslaw is coated in the flavors. Allow this to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is just tender but still retains a bit of crunch.

Finishing Touches: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 2 teaspoons of toasted sesame oil and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. If you feel adventurous, sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for an added crunch and visual appeal!

Storing & Reheating

Deconstructed egg rolls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, feel free to freeze the dish for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s completely cooled before placing it in freezer-safe bags. When ready to eat, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to restore moisture. Note that freezing may slightly alter the texture, but a quick reheat will refresh the flavors beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the meat; it should be just browned to ensure it stays juicy.
When adding the coleslaw mix, if you prefer even more freshness, toss in some diced bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch.
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding some red pepper flakes while cooking the meat.
Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables; zucchini and mushrooms would complement the dish well.
Consider making a double batch for meal prep; this dish holds up well in the fridge!

Deconstructed egg rolls embody all the beloved flavors of traditional egg rolls in a quick and easy format that can accommodate those busy weeknights. Not only is it economical and healthy, but it also invites creativity in the kitchen. I encourage you to experiment with different proteins and vegetables, or even add your favorite sauces to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please everyone. Enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other meats besides pork or beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives for a lighter dish. You can also use plant-based meat substitutes like crumbled tempeh or tofu for a vegetarian option.

What if I can’t find coconut aminos?

No worries! You can easily substitute coconut aminos with low-sodium soy sauce. If you are looking for a gluten-free option, then tamari sauce is also a great choice.

Can I make this vegan?

Certainly! Replace the meat with a plant-based protein like crumbled tofu or tempeh. You might need to adjust the cooking time, as those alternatives require less time to cook.

How can I increase the spice level?

If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding more black pepper, some sriracha, or a touch of chili sauce when sautéing the meat. You can also garnish with sliced jalapeños for extra heat!