Kimchi fried rice is a staple in Korean cuisine, often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying meal. It’s believed to have originated as a clever way to use up leftover kimchi and rice, two ubiquitous ingredients in Korean households. The dish’s popularity has spread worldwide, appreciated for its spicy, tangy, and savory profile. Our Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice adds a plant-based twist to this beloved classic, maintaining all its traditional flavors while making it accessible to everyone.
Ingredients
To make the best vegan Korean kimchi fried rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably a day old)
- 1 cup vegan kimchi, chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
- Nori strips for garnish (optional)
Notes on Ingredients
- Vegan Kimchi: Make sure your kimchi is vegan-friendly, as traditional kimchi often contains fish sauce or shrimp paste. There are plenty of vegan options available in stores or you can make your own.
- Gochujang: This fermented red pepper paste is essential for an authentic Korean flavor. It adds a rich depth and spice to the dish.
- Rice: Using day-old rice is crucial as it’s drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create the perfect vegan Korean kimchi fried rice:
Preparing the Ingredients
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the carrots and chop the green onions, separating the white parts from the green tops. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
- Cook the Rice:
- If you don’t have leftover rice, cook the rice in advance and let it cool completely before using. This step ensures the rice fries well without clumping together.
Cooking the Fried Rice
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add the diced carrots and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the carrots begin to soften.
- Incorporate Kimchi:
- Stir in the chopped vegan kimchi and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Flavor the Rice:
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Mix in the gochujang and soy sauce, ensuring the rice is evenly coated.
- Final Touches:
- Stir in the frozen peas and cook until they’re heated through, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from heat and sprinkle the top with sesame seeds, nori strips, and the green parts of the green onions.
Tips and Variations
Tips for the Best Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
- Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray and refrigerate it for at least an hour before using.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of gochujang or opt for a milder kimchi variety.
- Balance Flavors: Taste your fried rice before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A splash of rice vinegar can add brightness if needed.
Variations
- Add Protein: For added protein, toss in some cubed tofu or edamame beans. Both are excellent additions to make the dish heartier.
- Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for variety.
- Grains: While jasmine rice is traditional, you can use other grains like quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional information per serving (recipe serves 4):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Sodium: 650mg
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, including vitamins from the vegetables and beneficial probiotics from the kimchi. It’s a healthy choice that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Korean cuisine or new to kimchi, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a delicious, plant-based meal. We hope you love making and eating this dish as much as we do.