Egg Roll in a Bowl

Blog & Recipe by Laura Hearn, CNE in The Clear Skin Solution

Indulging in takeout is one of life’s little luxuries – the convenience and taste are often unbeatable. But if you’re like me, you’re mindful of how it can affect your skin.

What if I told you In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a homemade one-pan dish that satisfies those takeout cravings without compromising your skin’s health? My Egg Roll in a Bowl transforms a popular appetizer into a wholesome one-pot meal, ensuring convenience without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

The Power of Protein, Fiber, and Fat

At the heart of this flavourful dish is lean ground chicken, providing a generous dose of protein. Protein, often associated with muscle building, plays a multifaceted role in skincare and overall health. It assists in the repair and regeneration of skin cells, acting as caretakers to maintain skin resilience and rejuvenation. Additionally, protein is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels, which is crucial for preventing acne breakouts.

Fibre-rich vegetables such as red cabbage, green cabbage, and carrots not only help balance blood sugar but also support digestion by providing prebiotics. Prebiotics are a type of fibre that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Together with protein and healthy fats, this combination promotes stable blood sugar levels, a critical element we focus on with our clients in The Clear Skin Solution.

Cruciferous Vegetables: Skin Superstars

Cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, are true skin superstars. Packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, cabbage helps combat free radicals and reduce inflammation, which are key factors in acne development. Incorporating these nutrient-rich veggies into your diet can help promote skin clarity and radiance, making Egg Roll in a Bowl a delicious ally in your skincare routine.

Takeout Temptations: Potential Pitfalls for Acne-Prone Skin

While the convenience of takeout can be tempting, it often comes with hidden ingredients that can wreak havoc on acne-prone skin. Inflammatory oils, such as vegetable and seed oils commonly used in restaurant cooking, can contribute to inflammation in the body, promoting breakouts. Additionally, ingredients like gluten and MSG may lurk in restaurant dishes, further promoting inflammation and cravings for more.

Tips for Choosing Skin-Friendly Takeout Options

When dining out, be mindful of ingredients that may aggravate acne. Here are some tips for making skin-friendly choices:

Check the Menu Ahead of Time

Take a peek at the menu online to familiarize yourself with the options available. Look for dishes that feature lean proteins and plenty of vegetables.

Inquire About Ingredients

Don’t hesitate to ask your server about specific ingredients or cooking methods. Requesting modifications, such as steaming instead of frying, can help minimize inflammatory oils.

Opt for Whole Food Options

Whenever possible, choose dishes made with whole, unprocessed ingredients. Fresh salads, grilled proteins, and vegetable-based stir-fries are excellent choices for supporting clear skin.

More Take-Out Inspired Recipes

Egg Roll in a Bowl

This Egg Roll in a Bowl turns a favourite starter into a healthy, one-pot dish, keeping it tasty and nutritious for the skin.

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Ingredients

1 Tbsp avocado oil
1 lb ground chicken or turkey
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp ground black pepper
3 cloves garlic minced
1 medium onion diced
1.5 tsp ground ginger
1 cup shredded carrots see notes
1 cup shredded red cabbage
1 cup shredded green cabbage
2 eggs beaten
3 Tbsp tamari or coconut aminos
2 Tbsp rice vinegar
1 Tbsp sesame oil
4 green onions thinly sliced
Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

Heat avocado oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add ground chicken or turkey, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Stir in garlic, onion, and ginger; cook for 2 minutes until the onion starts to soften.
Add carrots, red cabbage, and green cabbage; cook for another 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.
Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Pour the beaten eggs into the cleared space and scramble until cooked.
Mix the scrambled eggs with the vegetable mixture.
Stir in tamari or coconut aminos and rice vinegar, making sure everything is well coated.
Remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil, and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

Notes

Time-Saving Tip: replace the cabbage and carrots with 3 cups of coleslaw mix.