If you love the savory, comforting flavors of classic egg rolls, you’re going to adore this egg roll soup recipe. This easy egg roll soup brings together all the best parts of your favorite appetizer—crisp vegetables, tender ground pork, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a rich, flavorful broth—into one warming bowl. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy alternative to takeout, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Egg roll soup is perfect for anyone who craves the taste of Chinese takeout but wants something lighter and easier to prepare. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this hearty, delicious soup in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with protein and veggies. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the best egg roll soup at home!
Why You’ll Love This Egg Roll Soup
- Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables.
- Flavorful: All the classic egg roll flavors in a cozy soup.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your dietary needs or preferences.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic egg roll soup:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Ground pork | 1 pound | Or substitute ground chicken/turkey |
| Onion | 1 medium | Diced |
| Garlic | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Fresh ginger | 1 tablespoon | Grated or minced |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Julienned or shredded |
| Green cabbage | 4 cups | Shredded |
| Chicken broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons | Use tamari for gluten-free |
| Sesame oil | 1 tablespoon | For authentic flavor |
| Rice vinegar | 1 tablespoon | Optional, for brightness |
| Green onions | 2 stalks | Sliced, for garnish |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ teaspoon | Optional, for heat |
Feel free to add mushrooms, water chestnuts, or bean sprouts for extra texture!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the ginger.
- Shred the carrots and cabbage.
- Slice the green onions for garnish.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
- Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground pork and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Broth
- Add the shredded carrots and cabbage to the pot.
- Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer and Season
- Add soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the veggies are tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve hot and enjoy your homemade egg roll soup!
Tips for the Best Egg Roll Soup
- Use Fresh Ginger: Fresh ginger gives the soup a vibrant, authentic flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Simmer just until the cabbage and carrots are tender for the best texture.
- Customize the Protein: Ground chicken or turkey works just as well as pork.
- Add Crunch: Top with crispy wonton strips or toasted sesame seeds for extra texture.
Variations and Substitutions
Protein Swaps
- Ground Chicken or Turkey: Leaner options that work perfectly in this soup.
- Vegetarian: Use crumbled tofu or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Veggie Add-Ins
- Mushrooms: Add sliced shiitake or button mushrooms for umami.
- Bean Sprouts: Stir in at the end for crunch.
- Bell Peppers: Thinly sliced for extra color and sweetness.
Flavor Boosters
- Hoisin Sauce: Add a tablespoon for a touch of sweetness.
- Sriracha: For a spicy kick, drizzle on top before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a heartier meal.
- With Noodles: Add cooked rice noodles or ramen for a noodle soup twist.
- As a Starter: Pair with other Asian-inspired dishes for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed.
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FAQs
1. Can I make egg roll soup ahead of time?
Yes! Egg roll soup stores well in the fridge for several days. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight. Just reheat gently before serving.
2. Is egg roll soup gluten-free?
It can be! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your broth to ensure it’s gluten-free.
3. Can I freeze egg roll soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw and reheat as needed. The texture of the veggies may soften slightly after freezing, but the flavor remains delicious.
4. What can I use instead of pork?
Ground chicken, turkey, or even crumbled tofu are great substitutes. You can also use a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
5. How can I make the soup spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to kick up the heat.
Conclusion
Egg roll soup is a delicious, easy, and healthy way to enjoy all the flavors of your favorite takeout appetizer in one comforting bowl. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless ways to customize, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Try it for your next weeknight dinner and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and full of flavor!
