Egg Roll Soup combines all the comforting flavors of an egg roll in a warm, nourishing soup. The ground pork, crunchy cabbage, and vibrant carrots provide a satisfying texture, while the ginger, garlic, and sesame oil add depth and richness. A boiled egg on top adds an extra creamy element, making this soup feel even more like a hearty meal.
This soup is incredibly easy to make, and the ingredients can be customized depending on what you have in your pantry. Add some chili oil for extra heat, or throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend comfort meal, Egg Roll Soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
Full Recipe:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 lb ground pork (or ground chicken)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 1 boiled egg, halved (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground pork (or chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add the onion, garlic, and grated ginger to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and the onion is softened.
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and carrots, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.
- If desired, add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Simmer the soup for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and optional boiled egg halves.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 290 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Egg Roll Soup: A Comforting Twist on a Classic
If you’re a fan of egg rolls and love the warmth and comfort of a hearty soup, then Egg Roll Soup is a dish you’ll want to try. This Asian-inspired soup takes all the flavors and textures you love from a classic egg roll and turns them into a delicious, easy-to-make soup. With tender ground pork (or chicken), crunchy cabbage, carrots, and flavorful seasonings, this dish offers the perfect balance of savory, umami, and just the right amount of spice. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a cozy dinner with loved ones, Egg Roll Soup has the power to satisfy both your hunger and cravings for something comforting.
The Flavors of Egg Roll Soup
At its core, Egg Roll Soup is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that mimic the beloved egg roll, but in a much more convenient and comforting soup format. The base is typically made with ground meat, often pork or chicken, which provides a rich, savory foundation for the soup. The meat is then combined with vegetables such as cabbage and carrots, which not only give the dish a refreshing crunch but also absorb the flavors of the broth.
The soup’s seasoning is what truly sets it apart. Fresh garlic, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar come together to create a harmonious, aromatic broth that’s both savory and slightly tangy. The soy sauce adds a saltiness and depth of flavor, while the rice vinegar provides a subtle acidity that brightens up the dish. Sesame oil, often used in Asian cooking, imparts a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the vegetables and meat.
The use of ginger and garlic adds an aromatic punch, lending complexity to the overall flavor profile. And, of course, the addition of sliced green onions and sometimes a boiled egg makes for a beautiful, garnish-worthy finish that enhances both flavor and presentation. Each bite is a perfect blend of comforting broth, tender meat, crunchy vegetables, and flavorful seasonings.
The Versatility of Egg Roll Soup
One of the best things about Egg Roll Soup is its versatility. Just like with traditional egg rolls, this soup can be customized to your taste. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can easily omit the meat and substitute with mushrooms, tofu, or even tempeh to maintain a satisfying texture. You can also experiment with different types of vegetables, such as bell peppers, bok choy, or mushrooms, which would add their own unique flavors and textures to the soup.
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes or chili paste can be added to kick up the spice level. The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility – you can easily tailor it to your preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether you’re looking for a light, vegetarian dish or a heartier version with meat, this recipe can be adapted to suit your needs.
Another great aspect of Egg Roll Soup is how easy it is to prepare. Unlike traditional egg rolls that require frying and a bit of fuss, this soup can be whipped up in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings. It’s a one-pot dish, which means fewer dishes to wash and less time spent in the kitchen.
Health Benefits of Egg Roll Soup
Egg Roll Soup is not only delicious, but it’s also a healthy option compared to its fried counterparts. The vegetables provide a rich source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, while the broth base is low in calories yet full of flavor. Opting for lean ground pork or chicken helps to keep the dish on the lighter side, while still maintaining its savory richness.
If you’re looking to make the soup even healthier, consider making a few simple swaps. For example, using a low-sodium soy sauce or swapping in a vegetable-based broth instead of chicken can reduce the overall sodium content of the dish. Additionally, adding extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or broccoli will boost the soup’s nutritional value without compromising on flavor.
The soup also has a good amount of protein, particularly if you add a boiled egg for extra protein and richness. The combination of protein from the meat and egg, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the sesame oil makes this soup a balanced and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling full and energized.
Egg Roll Soup Variations
While the traditional version of Egg Roll Soup is already fantastic, there are several variations you can try to make it your own. Here are a few ideas:
1. Spicy Egg Roll Soup
If you love a bit of spice, try adding chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to your broth. These ingredients will infuse the soup with heat and give it an exciting kick. You can adjust the spice level based on your preference, from a mild warmth to a fiery sensation.
2. Vegetarian or Vegan Egg Roll Soup
For a plant-based version, simply omit the ground meat and add mushrooms, tofu, or even tempeh. Mushrooms have a savory, umami flavor that works perfectly in this soup and can mimic the texture of meat. Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or bok choy to round out the soup and make it hearty.
3. Egg Roll Soup with Noodles
For a more filling meal, you can add rice noodles, egg noodles, or even ramen noodles to the soup. The noodles will soak up the delicious broth, creating an even heartier version of this comforting dish. It’s perfect for those who want something a little more substantial for lunch or dinner.
4. Low-Carb Egg Roll Soup
For those following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, you can make this soup without noodles or with a cauliflower rice substitute. You can also use zucchini noodles for a lighter, vegetable-packed version that still retains the delicious flavors of the original recipe.
5. Egg Roll Soup with Shrimp or Beef
If you want to switch up the protein, try adding shrimp or beef instead of ground pork or chicken. Shrimp adds a light and delicate flavor, while beef can bring a richer taste. Both work well with the savory, flavorful broth.
Tips for Making the Best Egg Roll Soup
To get the most out of this delicious dish, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, ginger, and vegetables will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your soup. Fresh ingredients release more aromatic oils and flavors that enhance the broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: While the soup needs to simmer to develop flavors, avoid overcooking the vegetables. They should remain slightly crisp and vibrant for the best texture and taste.
- Adjust the Broth to Your Liking: If you prefer a stronger flavor, let the soup simmer for a bit longer to allow the broth to reduce and intensify. For a lighter broth, reduce the simmering time.
- Garnish Generously: Don’t skip the garnish! Green onions, sesame seeds, and even a boiled egg can add the perfect finishing touch, both visually and in terms of flavor.
Why Egg Roll Soup Is Perfect for Any Occasion
Egg Roll Soup is an ideal dish for so many occasions. Its versatility makes it suitable for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner to a flavorful starter for a special occasion meal. The soup’s balance of flavors and textures makes it appealing to people of all ages, from kids to adults, and it’s a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this soup can easily be scaled up or down to suit your needs. It’s also perfect for meal prep; make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. You can even freeze portions for later, so you have a quick and satisfying meal whenever you need it.
Egg Roll Soup is a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to the table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for any time you need a little comforting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Egg Roll Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of egg rolls in a more convenient, comforting, and versatile format. With its delicious combination of savory broth, tender meat, crunchy vegetables, and aromatic seasonings, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy gathering, or a special occasion, Egg Roll Soup will always hit the spot. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up, satisfy your hunger, and leave you with a smile on your face. So, next time you’re craving something hearty and flavorful, give this soup a try – you won’t regret it!