There’s something truly comforting about soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. Picture this: the rich aroma of ground pork sizzling in a pot, mingling with the spices of ginger and garlic, instantly warming your kitchen and your soul. As I slid a spoon into my latest creation, Egg Roll Soup, I couldn’t help but smile—this dish beautifully marries the crunch of classic egg rolls with the hearty warmth of a beloved bowl of soup.
A few weeks ago, I found myself looking for something different to shake off the monotony of weeknight meals. With just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand, I whipped up this delightful dish that not only satisfies cravings but also takes mere minutes to prepare. It’s a symphony of flavor and texture, ensuring you’ll never look at takeout the same way again. So grab your pot and let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen!
Why is Egg Roll Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting warmth: This soup offers a heartwarming embrace, perfect for chilly evenings.
Easy preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a nourishing meal in no time.
Flavor explosion: The combination of ginger, garlic, and savory pork creates a delightful complexity that will impress.
Wholesome ingredients: Packed with veggies, it balances indulgence and nutrition, making it a guilt-free choice.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for family meals or cozy gatherings, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Versatile: Customize it with your favorite add-ins like tofu or additional veggies to suit your taste!
Egg Roll Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
- Ground pork – a flavorful base that brings richness; can be substituted with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Shredded cabbage – provides that classic crunch; feel free to mix in bok choy or spinach for added greens.
- Grated carrots – adds sweetness and color; scallions also work if you have them on hand!
- Green onions – bring a fresh, sharp element to the dish; consider using chives for a milder flavor.
- Garlic cloves – infuse the soup with an aromatic depth; using roasted garlic can add a sweet touch.
- Fresh ginger – gives that distinct zing that complements the pork; replace with ground ginger in a pinch.
- Low-sodium pork broth – ensures a balanced flavor without excess salt; vegetable broth can be a great vegetarian alternative.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – adds umami and depth; tamari can be used for a gluten-free option.
This Egg Roll Soup is ready to warm your heart and feed your soul! Enjoy crafting this wholesome meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
How to Make Egg Roll Soup
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Brown the Pork: In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground pork. Cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. This step creates a savory base for your soup.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the pot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until they become fragrant, filling your kitchen with a warm aroma.
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Cook the Veggies: Stir in 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of grated carrots. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly but still retain a bit of crunch—this adds texture to your soup.
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Add Broth and Soy Sauce: Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium pork broth and ¼ cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will elevate your soup’s flavors beautifully.
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Simmer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer for 10 minutes to meld all those delightful flavors together. You’ll notice the colors vibrant and the aromas rich!
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Finish with Green Onions: Just before serving, stir in 3 sliced green onions. This adds a fresh pop of flavor and a lovely touch of color. Serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Egg Roll Soup Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this comforting soup truly your own with these fun twists!
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Vegetarian: Substitute ground pork with textured vegetable protein or mushrooms for a plant-based delight that still delivers on flavor.
A dash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame oil will add that umami essence, keeping it rich and satisfying. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha for a fiery experience.
The warmth will elevate your soup and awaken your taste buds, turning this cozy dish into something exciting! -
Low-Carb: Replace cabbage with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a lighter, low-carb version.
You’ll still enjoy that satisfying slurp while staying on track with your dietary goals. -
Extra Veggies: Toss in some snap peas or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
This not only brings vibrant colors but enriches the dish with more crunch, making each spoonful delightful! -
Creamy Style: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of cream cheese for a rich, creamy twist.
This will create a luscious, velvety consistency that’s utterly comforting on chilly nights. -
Noodle Addition: Include rice noodles or wonton wrappers for a heartier soup experience.
Soft noodles absorb the flavors beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. -
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil towards the end for a fragrant finish.
These herbs provide freshness that lightens the overall dish, creating a deliciously aromatic experience. -
Umami Boost: Sprinkle in a little oyster sauce or fish sauce for an intense depth of flavor.
Just a small amount can transform the taste of the broth, making it irresistibly scrumptious.
What to Serve with Egg Roll Soup?
Bring your family together for a comforting meal with these delicious pairings that enhance your experience.
- Crusty Bread: The perfect companion to soak up the flavorful broth, adding a satisfying crunch with every bite.
- Spring Rolls: Light and crunchy, these bring a delightful contrast to the warmth of the soup—ideal for dipping and sharing.
- Steamed Rice: A simple base that complements the soup beautifully, soaking up all its savory richness for a heartier meal.
- Sauteed Bok Choy: Its mild flavor and crunchy texture amplify the veggie goodness in the soup, providing a fresh element.
- Sesame Noodles: A tasty side that brings a nutty flavor and an enjoyable chew, enriching your dinner experience.
- Hot Green Tea: Sipping this soothing beverage enhances the meal, offering a calming cleanse between bites.
Give these pairings a try for an unforgettable dinner that truly warms the heart!
Make Ahead Options
These Egg Roll Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can brown the ground pork and sauté the garlic and ginger up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate these cooked components in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy your soup, reheat them in a pot. After that, stir in the shredded cabbage, grated carrots, pork broth, and soy sauce, and let it simmer for 10 minutes until all the flavors come together just as deliciously as the same-day prep. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze, ensuring you have a hearty meal ready in no time!
How to Store and Freeze Egg Roll Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Egg Roll Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: Freeze Egg Roll Soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space for expansion and freeze in single servings for easy reheating.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until hot. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much during storage.
Avoid sogginess: Store any noodles separately, adding them just before serving to maintain their texture.
Expert Tips for Egg Roll Soup
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Sautéing Tips: Make sure you brown the pork properly; undercooked meat can lead to a soggy texture in your Egg Roll Soup.
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Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to add in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas; they can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup!
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Seasoning Adjustments: Remember to taste as you go! You may want to adjust the soy sauce or add a bit of pepper to spice things up.
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Storage Suggestions: If you have leftovers, store the soup and the noodles separately to prevent them from becoming mushy during storage.
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Perfecting the Broth: For an even richer flavor, allow the soup to simmer longer—this deepens the taste beautifully. Just keep an eye on the broth level!
Egg Roll Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cabbage for my Egg Roll Soup?
Absolutely! When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with crisp, vibrant leaves. Avoid any with dark spots or wilting. Green or Napa cabbage works wonderfully; choose based on your texture preference.
How long can I store Egg Roll Soup in the fridge?
You can store leftover Egg Roll Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can dilute the flavors.
Can I freeze Egg Roll Soup, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your Egg Roll Soup, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion—around an inch is ideal. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For easy serving, consider freezing in single portions!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen Egg Roll Soup?
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator to maintain the best texture, then reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much, just add a splash of broth until it reaches your desired consistency.
Does this recipe cater to any dietary restrictions, like gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! You can easily adapt this Egg Roll Soup for gluten-free diets by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, make sure to check that your pork broth is gluten-free if you have severe allergies.
What should I do if my soup turns out too salty?
If your Egg Roll Soup is too salty, you can add more vegetables or broth to dilute the saltiness. Incorporate additional shredded cabbage or carrots to balance the flavors. Another trick is to add a peeled potato while simmering; it absorbs excess salt, and can be removed before serving!
Satisfy Your Cravings: Easy Egg Roll Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground pork. Cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger to the pot. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in 4 cups of shredded cabbage and 1 cup of grated carrots. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened slightly.
- Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium pork broth and 1/4 cup of low-sodium soy sauce. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Allow the soup to simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors together.
- Just before serving, stir in 3 sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
