• Chicken broth – 6 cups (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
  • Green onions – 1/2 cup, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
  • Rice vinegar – 2 tablespoons
  • Sriracha or chili sauce – 1 tablespoon (optional, for heat)
  • Eggs – 2 large, beaten (optional for an egg-drop twist)
  • Salt and pepper – To taste
  • Crispy wonton strips or fried noodles – For garnish (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro – For garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Julienne or shred the carrots and cabbage for a traditional egg roll texture.
  2. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  3. Grate fresh ginger for its vibrant flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

  1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the sesame oil, then the ground pork.
  3. Cook until the pork is browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and transfer the cooked pork to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and ginger.
  2. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and the onion is softened.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

  1. Stir in the shredded carrots and cabbage.
  2. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but retain a slight crunch.

Step 5: Create the Broth

  1. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth.
  2. Add the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and optional sriracha for heat.
  3. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Reintroduce the Pork

  1. Add the cooked pork back into the pot, stirring to combine.
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional soy sauce, salt, or pepper as needed.

Step 7: Optional Egg Drop Twist

  1. If you’d like to add an egg-drop texture, slowly drizzle the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently.
  2. The eggs will cook instantly, creating silky ribbons throughout the broth.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions.
  2. Garnish with crispy wonton strips, fried noodles, or fresh cilantro for added texture and flavor.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this deconstructed egg roll in soup form.

Tips for Perfect Egg Roll Soup

  1. Customizable Protein: Swap pork for ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for a healthier or vegetarian-friendly option.
  2. Veggie Variety: Add mushrooms, bean sprouts, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
  3. Make It Spicy: Increase the amount of sriracha or add red chili flakes for a spicier kick