In my kitchen, I regularly turn to this quick and tasty recipe for those short-on-time moments. With just some steamed rice and overly fermented kimchi, you can easily whip up tangy and savory kimchi fried rice. So, let me walk you through how effortlessly it comes together. It’s time to make cooking a breeze!
The Global Appeal of Kimchi
Kimchi has become widely popular, making it accessible in various places—from local Asian markets to major retailers like Costco. You can practically find kimchi just about anywhere, reflecting its status as a sought-after and versatile food item enjoyed by many.
Kimchi’s rise in popularity can be credited to its distinctive blend of tangy and savory flavors, along with its health benefits. Rich in probiotics, vitamins, and antioxidants, kimchi offers not just deliciousness but also potential benefits for gut health.
Also, as people increasingly appreciate diverse and flavorful foods, the unique taste of kimchi has gained global appeal. Its versatility in different dishes further adds to its widespread popularity among those looking for both culinary enjoyment and nutritional value.
A Versatile Twist
Restaurants, not just Korean ones, have embraced the versatility of kimchi, incorporating it into various non-Korean dishes. Its adaptability shines, especially when using slightly aged kimchi.
One of the simplest ways to enjoy it is through kimchi fried rice – a quick, effortless option for a tasty meal. Perfect for a no-fuss dinner or a satisfying next-day lunch, this dish showcases the ease and deliciousness of incorporating fermented kimchi into everyday cooking.
Simple Steps for Easy Kimchi Fried Rice
To create easy kimchi fried rice, gather overly fermented kimchi, steamed white or brown rice, and your preferred vegetables. When using cabbage kimchi, remember to squeeze out the juice before adding it to the fried rice to avoid sogginess.
For additional ingredients, options like corn, peas, or seafood such as baby cooked shrimp or squid work well. Opt for slightly drier rice to prevent a sticky texture in the dish, avoiding overly sticky varieties. Therefore, leftover rice is recommended for its less sticky consistency, but if using fresh rice, allow it to cool before preparing kimchi fried rice.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in the fridge for a week or freeze kimchi fried rice for longer storage. For freezing, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag, ensuring to remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Store it in the freezer for 1-2 months.
To enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan or microwave. Note that the texture may alter slightly after freezing, but it’s still a handy choice for meal prep.
Easy Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 cups overly fermented kimchi
- 3 cups steamed white or brown rice (slightly dry, not too sticky)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., corn, peas)
- Optional: 1/2 cup baby cooked shrimp or squid (for seafood lovers)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Optional garnish: Fried eggs
Instructions
1. Begin by cooking the rice and allowing it to cool. While the rice is cooling, chop the overly fermented kimchi into smaller pieces. Also, if you’re using frozen vegetables, such as corn or peas, let them thaw slightly before incorporating them into the dish.
2. For cooking, start by heating vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Then, add the chopped kimchi and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it’s slightly browned and fragrant.
3. Next, add vegetables and seafood (if using). Then, incorporate mixed vegetables and baby cooked shrimp or squid, if desired, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine the rice by adding the steamed rice to the pan. Ensure to break up any clumps and mix well with the other ingredients.
5. For seasoning, pour soy sauce over the mixture and drizzle sesame oil. Then, stir thoroughly to evenly coat the rice.
6. To finish and garnish, add chopped green onions and continue stirring until everything is well combined. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds for added flavor and presentation.
7. Serve the kimchi fried rice once it’s heated through and well-mixed. If desired, add a sunny-side-up fried egg on top of each serving for an extra touch. Enjoy the dish hot and savor the delicious blend of flavors.
This easy kimchi fried rice is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for busy days or when you want a tasty homemade dish. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein choices!
