There are few dishes more universally satisfying than a perfectly seasoned egg roll filling. That savory mix of tender meat, crunchy cabbage, fragrant ginger, and that quintessential umami sauce it’s pure comfort food. However, deep-frying traditional egg rolls often means sacrificing health goals or precious weeknight time. What if you could capture all that incredible flavor in a single, speedy skillet meal?
Enter the revolutionary Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl. This recipe takes everything you love about the classic appetizer the robust flavor, the aromatic spice, and the fantastic crunch and transforms it into a wholesome, high-protein, low-carb dinner that is ready in less than 30 minutes. It’s the ultimate deconstructed version, ditching the wrapper but keeping the magic. If you are searching for a fast, flavorful, and filling meal that tastes like takeout but is incredibly healthy, your search ends here. This Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is about to become your new weeknight superstar.
We use lean ground turkey as our base, which cooks quickly and absorbs the rich flavors of fresh garlic and ginger beautifully. Combined with huge quantities of crisp cabbage, carrots, and a perfectly balanced homemade sauce, this dish delivers an amazing texture contrast and a depth of flavor that rivals any restaurant stir-fry. Get ready to ditch the greasy wrappers and dive spoon-first into the best Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl you’ve ever tasted!
Why You’ll Be Obsessed with This Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl
The rise of the “Egg Roll Bowl” concept isn’t just a trend; it’s a testament to brilliant culinary efficiency. This particular Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl recipe stands out because it hits all the right notes for modern healthy eating without compromising on indulgence. Here are several reasons why this will instantly become a permanent fixture in your weekly rotation (it’s truly the best healthy Asian inspired meal):
Unbeatable Speed and Simplicity
In today’s hectic world, time is our most precious ingredient. This recipe is designed for maximum speed. We rely on convenience items like pre-shredded coleslaw mix, which cuts down on chopping time significantly. Once the turkey is browned, the rest of the dish is essentially a very quick stir-fry. From prep to plate, you are looking at under 30 minutes. This makes the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl the ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying, flavorful, and fast.
A Clean, Low Carb Dinner Dream
If you are tracking macros, following a keto diet, or simply trying to increase your vegetable intake, this recipe is a game-changer. By eliminating the high-carbohydrate wrapper, we maximize the nutritional value. Cabbage is an incredibly low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable that wilts down beautifully, allowing you to consume large, filling portions without the calorie guilt. When paired with lean ground turkey, you get a protein powerhouse that keeps you feeling satisfied long after dinner is over. This truly is a brilliant, healthy low carb dinner option.
Dynamic Texture and Flavor Profile
A great stir-fry (or Egg Roll Bowl) is all about texture, and this recipe delivers a symphony of crunch and tenderness. We intentionally undercook the cabbage slightly, ensuring it remains crisp-tender the perfect contrast to the savory, crumbly ground turkey. The flavor base is complex: the heat of the fresh ginger and garlic, the savory depth of soy sauce, the tang of rice vinegar, and the slightest hint of sweetness from the brown sugar, all rounded out by the nutty aroma of toasted sesame oil. The addition of fresh scallions and crunchy sesame seeds upon serving elevates the experience, making every bite of this Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl a delight.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Batch Cooking
If you are a meal prepper, you know the importance of recipes that hold up well in the fridge. The robust nature of the cabbage and the ground turkey base means this Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl reheats beautifully without becoming soggy. It’s fantastic cold for lunch the next day, or quickly warmed in the microwave or skillet. Prepare a double batch on Sunday, and enjoy healthy, flavorful lunches all week long. This versatility and durability cement its status as a must-have recipe.
The Secret to a Perfect Egg Roll Filling: Why You Should Try This Recipe Today
The success of any Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl hinges on achieving that authentic, deep savory flavor characteristic of true egg roll filling. Many bowl recipes fall flat because they rely too heavily on soy sauce alone. This recipe, however, layers aromatics and balancing agents expertly, guaranteeing a result that is both profound and perfectly balanced. Beyond the incredible taste, there are strong practical reasons to prioritize this dish right now.
Harnessing the Power of Fresh Aromatics
The critical difference between an ordinary stir-fry and an extraordinary one lies in the use of fresh aromatics. We don’t just call for garlic and ginger; we call for generous amounts 4 cloves of minced garlic and 2 tablespoons of finely minced fresh ginger. These aren’t seasonings; they are foundational ingredients. When sautéed correctly, they release volatile oils that perfume the entire dish, transforming the humble ground turkey into something exotic and unforgettable. Do not be tempted to substitute powdered ginger here; the fresh, zesty kick is essential to the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl experience.
Mastering the Cabbage Crunch
Soggy cabbage is the enemy of any good stir-fry. Our technique for wilting the vegetables is precise: high heat and rapid tossing. We combine two types of cabbage the common green cabbage (often found in coleslaw mix) and the milder, softer Napa cabbage to achieve both texture and volume. By cooking the vegetables quickly at medium-high heat for just 3 to 5 minutes, the cabbage retains its structure and satisfying crunch, avoiding the watery, mushy fate of overcooked greens. This technique ensures that your Egg Roll Bowl remains vibrant and crisp.
For those looking for other amazing vegetable side dishes that utilize quick cooking and high flavor, consider trying this guide on air fryer brussels sprouts. Achieving the right texture in your sides enhances the whole meal experience.
A Budget-Friendly Family Favorite
Cooking for a family can be expensive, but this Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl uses affordable, accessible ingredients. Ground turkey is often more economical than other ground meats, and cabbage is one of the most budget-friendly vegetables available. By stretching the protein with a large volume of fiber-rich cabbage, you create a meal that is hearty, filling, and incredibly kind to your grocery budget. It’s a smart way to eat healthy without breaking the bank.
Adaptability and Customization
This recipe is inherently flexible. Whether you need a stricter gluten-free version (easily achieved with Tamari or Coconut Aminos), a vegetarian substitute (swapping turkey for crumbled tofu or mushrooms), or simply prefer a different spice level, the base recipe is endlessly adaptable. This foundation provides a savory canvas that you can personalize to fit any dietary need or taste preference, making it a reliable recipe for any household.
Gather Your Ingredients and Essential Tools for the Best Egg Roll Bowl
Mise en place is key to any stir-fry, and especially for this quick-cooking Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl. Since the dish comes together so rapidly, having all your ingredients measured, diced, and ready to go will ensure seamless execution and prevent anything from burning.
Ingredients Breakdown: Achieving Perfect Flavor and Texture
For the Turkey and Aromatics
We choose turkey not just for its lean profile but because its relatively mild flavor allows the potent aromatics to shine through. This combination creates the core of our savory Egg Roll Bowl.
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil: Use an oil with a high smoke point, like canola, avocado, or refined coconut oil. This is crucial for browning the turkey and stir-frying at medium-high heat.
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean or higher preferred): Opting for leaner turkey (93% or 99% fat-free) minimizes the amount of grease you need to drain. Less fat means better flavor absorption and a cleaner final dish.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced: The onion adds a sweet, foundational layer of flavor that softens the bite of the garlic and ginger.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Don’t skimp on the garlic! This is a core flavor component. Freshly minced garlic provides a much sharper, more potent flavor than jarred.
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely minced: Fresh ginger is mandatory for that authentic, zesty egg roll flavor. Use a microplane or a very sharp knife to mince it finely so it distributes evenly.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt & 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Basic seasoning applied directly to the turkey while it browns ensures the protein itself is flavorful, not just the sauce.
For the Vegetables (The Bulk of Your Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl)
The combination of convenience and freshness is what makes the vegetable component of this Egg Roll Bowl perfect.
- 1 bag (16 ounces) pre-shredded coleslaw mix (green cabbage and carrots): This saves significant prep time. The density of green cabbage holds up well to high heat.
- 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage: Napa cabbage is softer and milder than green cabbage, adding volume without heaviness. Hand-shredding this finer than the coleslaw mix provides variation in texture.
- 1 cup shredded carrots (if supplementing the coleslaw mix): Extra carrots add color, sweetness, and additional fiber. You can use matchstick carrots for a heartier crunch.
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional, but recommended for texture): Mushrooms, like shiitake or cremini, absorb the savory sauces beautifully and lend a satisfying, earthy texture that mimics the chewiness often found in traditional fried fillings.
For the Sauce and Seasoning
This sauce achieves the perfect harmony of salty, sweet, sour, and spicy necessary for a great Asian-inspired dish. The careful measurements ensure the sauce clings perfectly to the turkey and vegetables without pooling.
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or Tamari, or Coconut Aminos for gluten-free): Low sodium is preferred to give you greater control over the final saltiness. If using Coconut Aminos, you may need a slight increase in volume as they are less salty.
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (not seasoned): The acidity is essential for cutting through the richness of the meat and providing that classic, tangy finish. Ensure it’s unseasoned rice vinegar, as seasoned versions contain sugar that can throw off the balance.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey: This provides the necessary sweetness to balance the salty soy sauce and sour vinegar. It contributes to the lovely caramelized flavor.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: This is an essential finishing oil. Add it at the end of the sauce preparation; its aroma is potent and integral to the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon Sriracha or chili garlic sauce (adjust to desired spice level): This provides the necessary heat. Chili garlic sauce offers a more complex flavor and slight texture, while Sriracha is smoother.
For Garnish and Serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions (green onions): Fresh scallions add brightness and a necessary visual pop.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds: Added for crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Additional soy sauce or chili garlic sauce: Essential for diners who like to adjust the final seasoning in their bowl.
Essential Utensils for the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl
To successfully cook this large-volume dish, specific tools are necessary:
- A Very Large Skillet, Wok, or Dutch Oven: This is non-negotiable. When you add the cabbage, the volume is massive. You need plenty of surface area and high sides to stir-fry effectively without spilling. A 12-inch skillet or a large Dutch oven is minimum.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For dicing the onion and mincing the ginger and garlic.
- Small Mixing Bowl and Whisk: To prepare and thoroughly combine the sauce ingredients. Dissolving the brown sugar completely before adding it to the hot pan is crucial for a smooth sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: Necessary for breaking up the ground turkey into fine pieces and for vigorously tossing the large volume of vegetables.
Detailed Recipe Steps: Cooking Your Flavorful Egg Roll Bowl
Follow these steps precisely to ensure your Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl achieves maximum flavor and that perfect crisp-tender vegetable texture.
STEP 1: PREPARE THE SAUCE AND VEGETABLES (Mise en Place)
Preparation is the most time-consuming part of this recipe, but it guarantees cooking success.
- In your small bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar (or honey), toasted sesame oil, and Sriracha/chili garlic sauce. Whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved. Taste and ensure it hits a pleasant balance of salty, sweet, and sour. Set aside.
- Prepare all the fresh ingredients: Dice the onion, finely mince the garlic and ginger. Have your pre-shredded coleslaw mix and additional Napa cabbage ready and nearby.
Practical Tip: Keep the sauce ingredients gluten-free easily by swapping standard soy sauce for Tamari or Coconut Aminos. This small adjustment ensures everyone can enjoy your Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl.
STEP 2: BROWN THE GROUND TURKEY
Properly browning and seasoning the turkey builds the first critical layer of flavor.
- Heat your large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of neutral cooking oil.
- Add the ground turkey. Use a wooden spoon or spatula immediately to break the turkey up into small, uniform pieces. Avoid letting it cook into large clumps; smaller pieces integrate better with the shredded vegetables.
- Season the turkey with the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper while it browns.
- Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the turkey is completely cooked through and no pink remains.
- Crucial Step: If the turkey has rendered a significant amount of excess liquid or fat (especially if not using 99% lean), carefully drain it from the pan now. This prevents the final dish from becoming watery or greasy.
If you’re interested in other simple and flavorful weeknight dinners, check out this recipe for Easy Black Pepper Chicken, which shares a similar quick stir-fry method.
STEP 3: SAUTÉ THE AROMATICS
The aromatics are the soul of the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl.
- Reduce the heat slightly to medium. Push the cooked turkey to one side of the skillet, creating a clear spot in the center, or scoop the turkey out temporarily into a bowl.
- Add the diced yellow onion to the cleared area. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and turn translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and minced fresh ginger to the softened onions. Cook for just 1 minute, stirring constantly. The mixture should become intensely fragrant. Be vigilant here: fresh garlic burns very quickly, which will ruin the flavor of the entire dish.
- Stir the sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger into the cooked turkey, ensuring all ingredients are evenly blended.
STEP 4: WILT THE VEGETABLES
This step requires high heat and fast movement to achieve the desired crisp texture.
- Raise the heat back to medium-high. Add the more firm vegetables first: the optional sliced mushrooms and the extra shredded carrots (if supplementing). Stir and cook for 2 minutes to give them a head start.
- Add all of the shredded cabbage (the coleslaw mix and the Napa cabbage) to the skillet. The pan will look alarmingly full. This is normal!
- Toss the mixture vigorously and continuously for 3 to 5 minutes. The high heat, combined with constant stirring, forces the cabbage to wilt rapidly and shrink in volume. Continue tossing until the cabbage is crisp-tender it should still have a slight crunch but look vibrant and soft. Do not allow the vegetables to become fully soft or release too much water.
STEP 5: SAUCE AND FINISH
The final step brings all the complex flavors together into the rich Egg Roll Bowl sauce.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the entire skillet contents (turkey, aromatics, and wilted vegetables).
- Stir the mixture rapidly for just 1 to 2 minutes more. The heat will cause the sauce to quickly coat all the ingredients and slightly thicken or reduce. You want the sauce to cling, not create soup at the bottom of the pan.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning. If it needs more punch, add a splash more soy sauce for salt or a dash more rice vinegar for acidity. If it’s too spicy, a pinch of sugar can help mellow the heat.
STEP 6: SERVE AND GARNISH
- Turn off the heat immediately. Divide the completed Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl mixture among serving bowls.
- Garnish generously. Sprinkle the freshly chopped scallions and a generous amount of toasted sesame seeds over each bowl.
- Serve piping hot. Offer extra soy sauce, chili garlic sauce, or even duck sauce on the side for customization.
Tips, Variations, and Making This Dish Your Own
One of the joys of cooking this Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is its flexibility. It adapts beautifully to different ingredients, dietary needs, and spice preferences. Use these tips to customize the dish or avoid common pitfalls.
Ingredient Alternatives and Swaps
- Protein Swap: While turkey is lean and fast, you can easily substitute ground chicken, ground pork, or even ground beef (85/15 is excellent here, just be sure to drain the fat thoroughly). If using pork, you may want to slightly increase the ginger to cut through the richness.
- Vegan/Vegetarian Egg Roll Bowl: Skip the meat entirely and use firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled, or use 12–16 ounces of finely chopped mushrooms (a mix of cremini and shiitake works wonders) as your protein base. Sauté the tofu/mushrooms until golden brown before adding the aromatics. Alternatively, consider using lentils, which provide a meaty texture and excellent nutrition.
- Cabbage Alternatives: If you cannot find Napa cabbage, simply use more green coleslaw mix. You could also incorporate thinly sliced bok choy or even shaved Brussels sprouts for an added earthy flavor. For a crunchier side, you might also enjoy checking out this recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta as a counterpoint to this quick stir-fry.
- Spice Level: If you prefer mild heat, skip the Sriracha in the sauce entirely, and simply offer it on the side. If you crave intense spice, double the amount of chili garlic sauce and consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the vegetable wilting stage.
Pro Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: The difference between a great Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl and a mushy mess is 60 seconds on the stovetop. The vegetables should be wilted, glossy, and slightly tender, but never soft. Work quickly and keep the heat high during Step 4.
- Drain the Fat: This applies especially if you use leaner cuts of turkey or any other ground meat. Excess fat or water released during browning must be drained before adding the aromatics, otherwise, the garlic and ginger will steam instead of sauté, leading to diluted flavor.
- Keep it Hot: This dish requires medium-high heat. If your skillet is too cool, the vegetables will release their water content, and the dish will simmer instead of stir-fry. Ensure your pan is screaming hot before adding the turkey and again before adding the cabbage.
Serving Suggestions Beyond the Bowl
While the beauty of the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is its wrapper-free convenience, you can still get creative with serving:
- Lettuce Wraps: Serve the filling in large, crisp butter lettuce cups for an even fresher, lower-carb crunch.
- Over Rice: For those who aren’t strictly low-carb, serve the mixture over a bed of warm jasmine rice, brown rice, or even quinoa to make it a more substantial meal.
- Noodle Bowl: Serve over thin rice noodles (vermicelli) or even zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a different texture variation.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for healthy, flavor-packed meals, feel free to visit my Pinterest page where I share countless quick and easy recipes like this Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl.
Nutritional Snapshot: The Health Benefits of the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl
This Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is not just delicious; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. It maximizes key nutrients while minimizing unhealthy fats and carbohydrates, making it a fantastic choice for nearly any healthy eating plan.
Estimated Nutritional Values (Per Serving, based on 4 servings)
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific type of turkey (93% vs 99% lean) and the exact quantities of oil and sauce used. However, the general profile remains excellent:
- Calories: Approximately 280–350 kcal
- Protein: 30–35 grams
- Fats: 8–12 grams (mostly healthy unsaturated fats from the oil and sesame oil)
- Net Carbohydrates: 8–12 grams
- Fiber: 5–7 grams
Key Health Benefits
High Protein, Lean Fuel
Using lean ground turkey ensures a high-protein meal necessary for muscle maintenance, satiety, and energy throughout the day. Ground turkey is an excellent source of B vitamins (especially Niacin and B6), which are crucial for metabolism and energy production. The substantial protein content of this Egg Roll Bowl makes it an ideal post-workout or main dinner meal.
Fiber-Rich Cabbage Base
Cabbage and carrots are the stars of this recipe, providing significant dietary fiber. Fiber is vital for digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Furthermore, cabbage is packed with Vitamin C and Vitamin K. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, while Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant, supporting the immune system. Because the cabbage is only lightly cooked, many of these heat-sensitive nutrients are retained.
Immune-Boosting Aromatics
The health benefits of fresh garlic and ginger are well documented. Garlic contains compounds like allicin, known for its powerful immune-supporting and anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger is famed for its role in aiding digestion and reducing nausea. By incorporating fresh, generous amounts of these aromatics into the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl, you are significantly boosting the nutritional profile beyond just vitamins and minerals.
Controlled Sodium and Sugar
By making the sauce from scratch, you have complete control over the sodium and sugar content something that is often excessively high in store-bought sauces or traditional takeout. We use low-sodium soy sauce and a minimal amount of brown sugar (just one tablespoon across the entire recipe) to achieve flavor balance without overloading on unnecessary additives. This makes the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl a significantly healthier alternative to ordering takeout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I prepare the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl ahead of time for meal prep?
Absolutely! This Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is an excellent meal prep choice. It holds up well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. The cabbage remains crisp-tender, and the flavors deepen overnight. Store the mixture in airtight containers and garnish with scallions and sesame seeds right before serving or reheating.
Is this recipe suitable for a keto or strict low-carb diet?
Yes, the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is very keto-friendly. To ensure strict adherence, replace the small amount of brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit, and ensure you are using Tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce, as some soy products contain hidden sugars. The primary ingredients are high protein and low net carb vegetables.
What is the difference between Napa cabbage and regular green cabbage in this Egg Roll Bowl?
Napa cabbage is much softer, milder, and more delicate than standard green cabbage. Using a combination of both (firm green cabbage for texture and soft Napa cabbage for bulk) provides a better, more authentic mouthfeel similar to actual egg roll filling. If you only have one type, green cabbage works well, but be sure to shred it finely.
How can I make my ground turkey less watery when cooking this dish?
To avoid a watery Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl, use very lean ground turkey (93% or higher). Ensure your pan is hot enough when browning, and critically, do not rush the browning process. If liquid pools after the turkey is cooked but before adding the aromatics, you must drain it carefully from the skillet.
Can I add other vegetables to the Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl?
Absolutely! This is a highly flexible Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl recipe. Excellent additions include thinly sliced bell peppers, snow peas, water chestnuts (added at the end for crunch), or bamboo shoots. Ensure any additional vegetables are cut small and added during Step 4 to allow sufficient cooking time alongside the cabbage.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Weeknight Meal
The Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is more than just a quick meal; it’s a culinary triumph born from efficiency and bold flavor. It successfully deconstructs the beloved fried egg roll, delivering all the savory, aromatic goodness we crave in a high-protein, low-carb format that supports a healthy lifestyle. From the zesty kick of fresh ginger to the satisfying crunch of crisp-tender cabbage, every spoonful is packed with complexity.
We’ve covered the crucial steps: preparing your sauce beforehand, browning the lean ground turkey thoroughly, maximizing the impact of fresh aromatics, and ensuring a brief, high-heat stir-fry to retain the cabbage’s essential crunch. By following these guidelines, you eliminate the risk of a soggy, underwhelming dinner and unlock the full potential of this quick, healthy Asian-inspired dish.
This Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl is the perfect antidote to takeout cravings, providing superior nutrition and flavor in less time than it takes for the delivery driver to arrive. Whether you are meal prepping for a busy week, seeking a fast keto dinner, or simply looking for an exciting way to eat more vegetables, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Don’t wait to transform your dinner routine. Gather your ingredients, get your wok hot, and discover the satisfying ease of the best Veggie Turkey Egg Roll In A Bowl. Try this recipe tonight, and be sure to let us know in the comments how you customized your bowl!

LONG AND EASY TO READ VEGGIE TURKEY EGG ROLL IN A BOWL
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, toasted sesame oil, and Sriracha. Whisk them together thoroughly until the sugar is fully dissolved. Set the sauce aside.
- Ensure all your vegetables are ready (minced garlic/ginger, diced onion, shredded cabbages). This dish cooks very quickly once the vegetables are added, so preparation is essential (mise en place).
- Heat a very large skillet, wok, or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the tablespoon of neutral cooking oil.
- Add the ground turkey to the hot skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break the turkey up into small, uniform pieces as it cooks. Season the turkey liberally with the 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Cook the turkey for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is completely cooked through and no pink remains. If a large amount of excess liquid or fat has rendered, carefully drain it from the pan before proceeding.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Push the cooked turkey to one side of the skillet, or move it temporarily to a bowl. Add the diced yellow onion to the cleared area of the skillet and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and minced fresh ginger to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is highly fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Stir the onions, garlic, and ginger into the cooked turkey, blending the ingredients well.
- Raise the heat back to medium-high. Add the more firm vegetables first, such as the optional sliced mushrooms. Stir them into the turkey mixture and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add all of the shredded cabbage (both the pre-shredded coleslaw mix and the Napa cabbage) to the skillet. The skillet will look extremely full at this stage.
- Toss the mixture vigorously for 3 to 5 minutes. The high heat will cause the cabbage to quickly wilt and decrease significantly in volume. Continue stirring until the cabbage is crisp-tender but still retains a bit of crunch. Do not overcook, or the vegetables will become watery.
- Pour the prepared sauce mixture (soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, etc.) evenly over the entire skillet contents.
- Stir the entire mixture rapidly, ensuring the sauce coats all the turkey and vegetables. Cook for just 1 to 2 minutes more, allowing the sauce to slightly reduce and heat through.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed. You may add a splash more soy sauce for saltiness, or a dash more rice vinegar for acidity.
- Turn off the heat. Divide the mixture immediately among serving bowls.
- Garnish each bowl generously with the freshly chopped scallions and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
- Serve hot, with extra soy sauce or chili garlic sauce offered on the side for those who prefer more heat.