If you’re craving a bold, spicy, and comforting dish that comes together in just minutes, Kimchi Fried Rice is your answer. Known as Kimchi Bokkeumbap in Korea, this dish is a beloved staple that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and slightly over-fermented kimchi. Whether you’re new to Korean food or a longtime fan, this quick and easy recipe will become your go-to for lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack.
What’s more, it’s incredibly versatile. You can keep it vegetarian, top it with a fried egg, or add meat like spam, bacon, or chicken for extra richness. Now, let’s get started with what you’ll need.
Ingredients of Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe with Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old) | 2 cups |
| Kimchi (chopped) | 1 cup |
| Kimchi juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 small |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Gochujang (Korean chili paste) | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sesame oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Green onions (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Egg (optional topping) | 1 |
| Sesame seeds (for garnish) | 1 teaspoon |
| Optional protein (spam, bacon, or tofu) | ½ cup diced |
Step by Step Cooking Instructions of Kimchi Fried Rice
1. Prepare all ingredients beforehand
Start by chopping your kimchi, onion, and green onions. If you’re adding any protein, dice it as well. This dish cooks quickly, so it’s best to have everything ready.
2. Heat the pan and sauté aromatics
In a large pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Add kimchi and gochujang
Next, toss in the chopped kimchi and cook for 3-4 minutes until it’s softened and slightly caramelized. Stir in the gochujang and let it blend well with the kimchi.
4. Add rice and seasonings
Now add the cold cooked rice to the pan. Break it up with your spatula and mix thoroughly. Pour in the soy sauce and kimchi juice. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
5. Finish with sesame oil and garnish
Drizzle the sesame oil and toss in chopped green onions. Stir briefly, then remove from heat. If you like, fry an egg sunny-side-up and place it on top. Sprinkle sesame seeds for the final touch.
Tips & Variations
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Use day-old rice: Fresh rice can be too moist. Cold rice separates better and fries more evenly.
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Add protein: Spam, bacon, or tofu make excellent additions for extra texture and flavor.
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No gochujang? Use a little chili powder or sriracha as a substitute.
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Vegetarian-friendly: Just skip the meat or replace it with mushrooms or tofu.
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Add cheese: Melt some shredded mozzarella on top for a Korean-Western fusion.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve hot with a fried egg on top for a creamy, rich texture.
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Pair it with a side of miso soup or steamed dumplings.
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Add a small bowl of extra kimchi or pickled radish to balance the spice.
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It also goes great with a cold glass of barley tea or lemon soda.
Nutritional Info of Kimchi Fried Rice (Per Serving – approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbohydrates | 55 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 920 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on added protein or toppings.
FAQs about Kimchi Fried Rice
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I freeze Kimchi Fried Rice? | Yes, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat in a pan or microwave. |
| How long can I store it in the fridge? | It stays good for 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. |
| Can I use freshly cooked rice? | It’s better to use day-old rice to avoid mushiness, but you can cool fresh rice before using. |
| Is it spicy? | It depends on your kimchi and how much gochujang you add. You can adjust the spice level easily. |
| What protein goes best? | Spam is traditional, but bacon, chicken, or tofu work well too. |
This easy and flavorful Kimchi Fried Rice is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, spicy, and satisfying meals. With minimal effort and endless room for customization, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something truly comforting.