Egg Roll Soup

How to Make Egg Roll Soup: Step-by-Step

Creating this flavorful soup is straightforward, and it’s ready in no time. Here’s how you make the best Egg Roll Soup:

Step 1: Sauté the Ground Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground pork (or your choice of ground meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is fully cooked, remove any excess fat and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more sesame oil if needed, then sauté the onion, garlic, and ginger over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This creates a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, ground pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to combine the ingredients, making sure the broth absorbs all the savory and aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, add the shredded cabbage and carrots to the soup. Stir them in and allow them to cook down for 5-7 minutes until they are tender, but still have some crunch. The cabbage will soften and wilt, giving the soup its classic egg roll texture.

Step 5: Combine the Meat and Simmer

Add the cooked ground meat back into the pot and stir everything together. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften even more.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you like it saltier, add more soy sauce. If you want more acidity, a splash of rice vinegar can brighten the flavors. If you prefer a little sweetness, add a touch more sugar. Don’t forget to adjust the heat level by adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha if you like it spicier.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro (if using). If you like a bit of crunch, top your soup with crispy wonton strips or crispy noodles. For an extra egg roll touch, you can add a soft-boiled egg to each bowl.

Tips for Perfect Egg Roll Soup

• Adjust the Protein: While ground pork is the classic choice, you can swap it out for ground chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. The broth and seasonings will still provide plenty of flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, baby corn, or bell peppers to the soup. They’ll complement the cabbage and carrots and make the soup even more nutritious.
• Customize the Heat: If you like a spicier soup, you can use sriracha or add chili paste to the broth. Adjust the amount to your desired spice level.
• Serve with Toppings: Crispy wonton strips or even a drizzle of hoisin sauce can add an extra layer of texture and flavor to the soup, making it more egg roll-like.
• Make It Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

Why This Soup Works

The beauty of Egg Roll Soup lies in its simplicity and balance. By taking the familiar flavors of an egg roll and combining them in a savory broth, this soup offers the same delicious satisfaction but in a lighter, more comforting form. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and seasoned meat delivers a satisfying texture, while the soy sauce and rice vinegar add a perfect balance of umami and acidity. The ginger, garlic, and green onions round out the flavor profile with freshness and warmth.

Conclusion

Egg Roll Soup is the perfect solution for those craving the flavors of an egg roll but without the deep-frying. It’s quick, healthy, and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or serving guests at a gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. Serve it with your favorite toppings, adjust the flavors as you like, and enjoy a bowl of comfort with every bite. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables or proteins and make a satisfying meal in no time. Give it a try and discover your new favorite way to enjoy egg rolls in soup form!