Egg Roll Soup Recipe

If you’ve ever loved the crispy, flavorful goodness of an egg roll but wished it could be transformed into a warm, comforting bowl of soup, you’re absolutely going to adore this Egg Roll Soup. It’s like all the best parts of that takeout favorite—savory pork, fresh cabbage, ginger, and garlic—delicately braided together in a soothing broth that’s perfect any day of the year. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a wonderful way to enjoy those familiar flavors with a lighter, more slurp-friendly twist that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Egg Roll Soup lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a very important role. From the savory ground pork to the crunchy, vibrant cabbage, every element contributes to a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

• 1 pound ground pork: Adds rich flavor and protein but can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides the perfect base for sautéing vegetables and enhances the soup’s depth.
• 1 medium white onion, peeled and diced: Brings natural sweetness and aromatic complexity to the broth.
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Introduces a touch of natural sweetness and appealing color contrast.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a subtle punch of warmth and pungency that’s essential to the flavor profile.
• 1 small green cabbage, chopped: Supplies crisp texture and vibrant green color, key for that signature egg roll feel.
• 6-8 cups chicken or vegetable stock: Creates the comforting, savory foundation of the soup.
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger: Adds a warm, zesty aroma that perfectly complements the garlic and pork.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: Gives the soup its unmistakable nutty finish and a little extra flair.
• Optional toppings: Toasted sesame seeds, thinly sliced green onions, or some crispy homemade fried egg roll wrappers (or store-bought wonton strips) bring delightful texture and garnish appeal.

How to Make Egg Roll Soup

Step 1: Brown the Pork

Start by heating a large stockpot over medium heat, then add the ground pork. Cook it for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring and flipping so it browns evenly without getting too dark. This step builds the soup’s deep savory base and locks in that meaty flavor. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to transfer the pork to a plate and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions soften and turn translucent, bathing your kitchen in a lovely aroma. Then toss in the carrots and garlic and stir for another 2 minutes. This gentle cooking brings out the natural sweetness and melds those flavors beautifully in preparation for the next step.

Step 3: Combine and Simmer

Add chopped cabbage, stock, ground ginger, and the previously cooked pork back into the pot. Stir everything together to combine all the layers of flavor. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it cook for 15 minutes. This simmering softens the veggies just right, allowing the cabbage and carrots to become tender but still retain a slight crunch for texture interest.

Step 4: Finish with Sesame Oil and Seasoning

Once your soup has simmered, stir in the toasted sesame oil. This tiny addition is a total game-changer, adding a nutty, warm finish that echoes the classic egg roll flavor. Taste your soup, then season generously with salt and black pepper to make sure every spoonful sings. Your Egg Roll Soup is now ready to be ladled into bowls!

How to Serve Egg Roll Soup

Garnishes

Adding garnishes to Egg Roll Soup really elevates the experience. Try tossing on toasted sesame seeds for crunch and nuttiness, or sprinkle thin slices of green onion for brightness and that pop of fresh color. If you want to recreate a true egg roll vibe, homemade fried egg roll wrappers or crunchy store-bought wonton strips make an incredible topping that adds texture and charm.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with simple side dishes like steamed jasmine rice or a light Asian-style cucumber salad. Both complement the rich yet fresh flavors of the soup and make your meal feel complete without overwhelming your palate. Plus, they’re easy to prep, making your dinner fuss-free!

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Egg Roll Soup in stylish Asian-inspired bowls, paired with chopsticks and a small dipping dish of soy sauce or chili oil on the side. You could also offer crispy spring rolls alongside for an interactive lunch or dinner that mimics the joy of dipping and crunching egg rolls but with a warm soup to dip into. The possibilities for presentation are endless and always delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Egg Roll Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just transfer it to an airtight container and make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before refrigerating. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making your leftovers even more flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze Egg Roll Soup for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some room for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results or reheat gently from frozen.

Reheating

Reheat your soup on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to warm it evenly. Avoid boiling vigorously, which can affect the texture of the cabbage. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh green onions or sesame seeds again after reheating to refresh the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of pork?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey are excellent lean alternatives to pork and will still deliver plenty of flavor in your Egg Roll Soup. Just keep an eye on cooking times since these meats can cook slightly faster than pork.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Swap the ground pork for hearty mushrooms or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The combination of veggies, ginger, and sesame oil will keep the soup deliciously aromatic and satisfying.

What can I do if I don’t have toasted sesame oil?

While toasted sesame oil adds a distinctive flavor, you can substitute it with a small drizzle of regular sesame oil or a mild nut oil. Just add it sparingly to avoid overpowering the soup’s balance.

How spicy is this Egg Roll Soup?

This version of Egg Roll Soup is mild and fragrant without being spicy. If you love heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few drops of chili oil either during cooking or as a garnish.

Can I prepare parts of this soup in advance?

Yes! You can brown the pork and prep the vegetables a day ahead to save time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine everything when you’re ready to cook the soup completely.

Final Thoughts

Making Egg Roll Soup at home is such a delight—it’s comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to pull together. Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight meal or something a bit special that tastes like your favorite takeout without the guilt, this soup has got your back. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your go-to dishes for both cold days and whenever your craving calls for that incredible egg roll charm served in a wonderful, warming bowl.

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