How to Make Delicious Kimchi Fried Rice
If you love bold flavors and quick meals, Kimchi Fried Rice (Kimchi Bokkeumbap) is a must-try dish! This Korean comfort food is packed with umami, spice, and a satisfying mix of textures. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few ingredients. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
- 2 tbsp kimchi juice (from the kimchi container)
- 1/4 cup onion, diced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) – optional for extra spice
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, to balance flavors)
- 1/2 cup protein of choice (chopped ham, bacon, tofu, or shrimp)
- 1 egg (for topping)
- 1 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare Ingredients – Chop the kimchi, onion, and your protein of choice. If using rice from the fridge, break up any clumps so it cooks evenly.
- Cook the Protein – Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the protein and cook until lightly browned.
- Sauté the Aromatics – Add diced onions and chopped kimchi. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the Rice – Stir in the cooked rice, mixing well with the kimchi and onions.
- Season the Dish – Pour in the kimchi juice, soy sauce, gochujang (if using), and sugar. Stir-fry everything together for another 3-4 minutes.
- Drizzle with Sesame Oil – Turn off the heat and mix in sesame oil for a final touch of nuttiness.
- Fry an Egg – In a separate pan, fry an egg sunny-side up.
- Serve and Garnish – Plate the fried rice, top it with the fried egg, and sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Enjoy! – Mix everything together and dig in!
Tips for the Best Kimchi Fried Rice:
- Use Aged Kimchi – The older, the better! Fermented kimchi adds a deeper, tangier flavor.
- Day-Old Rice Works Best – It’s drier and gives the best texture when fried.
- Customize Your Toppings – Try adding seaweed flakes, cheese, or even avocado for a unique twist.
Kimchi Fried Rice is the perfect meal for busy days, offering both comfort and a spicy kick. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!