Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe

The Best Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe You’ll Ever Try—In Just 20 Minutes!

Are you looking for a quick, satisfying meal that bursts with flavor and takes less time than ordering takeout? Let me introduce you to Kimchi Fried Rice—or as it's known in Korea, Kimchi Bokkeumbap. This dish is the ultimate comfort food, packed with spicy, tangy kimchi and rich umami flavors, and the best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you're new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned kimchi lover, this easy recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

In this post, I’m going to share my personal Kimchi Fried Rice recipe, complete with options to customize it with your favorite protein like chicken or tuna. I’ll also provide tips on how to make it extra healthy without sacrificing taste. Let's dive in!

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What is Kimchi Bokkeumbap?

Kimchi Bokkeumbap, or Kimchi Fried Rice, is a beloved Korean dish made with fermented kimchi, day-old rice, and a variety of add-ins like vegetables and proteins. It’s often topped with a fried egg and garnished with sesame seeds and green onions. The dish is loved for its balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a comforting yet bold choice for any meal.

In Korea, Kimchi Bokkeumbap is a common way to use up leftover rice and kimchi. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile. You can keep it simple with just rice and kimchi, or throw in whatever you have on hand—whether it’s chicken, tuna, or tofu.

I’ve made this recipe countless times for myself, friends, and family, and I love how adaptable it is. It’s my go-to dish when I need something quick but still want to enjoy a homemade meal packed with flavors. I’m excited to share with you my best version of this delicious recipe!

Why This is the Best Kimchi Fried Rice

What sets this recipe apart is its balance of flavors and the simplicity of the cooking process. I’ve honed this recipe to make sure it’s easy for anyone to follow, even if you’re new to Korean cooking. Plus, you can have it on the table in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Here’s what makes this the best Kimchi Fried Rice recipe:

Perfectly balanced flavors: The spicy kick from the kimchi, combined with the savory notes from the rice and soy sauce, creates a delicious harmony.

Customizable proteins: Whether you’re in the mood for chicken, tuna, or a vegetarian option, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your preferences.

Healthy and flavorful: Kimchi is not only tasty but also packed with probiotics, making this dish both delicious and good for your gut.

Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: You don’t need a ton of ingredients to make something amazing. A few key components bring everything together beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make the best Kimchi Fried Rice:

Rice: Cold, day-old rice works best to avoid mushy fried rice.

Kimchi: Make sure to use well-fermented kimchi for bold flavor. The older, the better!

Protein: You can use diced chicken, canned tuna, or tofu if you prefer a vegetarian version.

Eggs: A fried egg on top is optional but adds a creamy richness to the dish.

Seasonings: Soy sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang (Korean chili paste) are essential for flavor.

Garnishes: Green onions, sesame seeds, and seaweed flakes (nori) add texture and a fresh finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Start by chopping your kimchi and prepping your protein of choice—whether that’s chicken or tuna. If you're using tofu, press it to remove excess moisture before cutting into cubes. Cold, leftover rice works best for fried rice as it holds its texture better.

2. Cook the Protein

If you're using chicken, sauté it in a bit of oil until cooked through and golden brown. If using tuna, you can add it directly to the rice later on since it's pre-cooked. Set the cooked chicken aside.

3. Sauté the Kimchi

In the same pan, add a little more oil and stir-fry the chopped kimchi until it’s fragrant and slightly caramelized. This helps release the flavors and makes the dish richer.

4. Add the Rice

Add your cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir it thoroughly with the kimchi, letting the rice soak up all the delicious juices.

5. Season It Up

Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice. If you like it extra spicy, add a spoonful of gochujang for a fiery kick.

6. Toss in the Protein

Add your cooked chicken or tuna to the pan and stir everything together until well combined. Let the flavors meld for a minute or two.

7. Fry an Egg (Optional)

For a classic Korean touch, fry an egg sunny-side up in a separate pan. Serve it on top of your Kimchi Fried Rice for a creamy, indulgent twist.

8. Garnish and Serve

Finish your dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and seaweed flakes. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why Kimchi Fried Rice is a Healthy Option

Kimchi is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and improve digestion. Plus, it's packed with vitamins A and C, making it a nutrient-dense addition to your meal.

Adding lean proteins like chicken or tuna makes this dish high in protein, which helps you feel full and satisfied. You can even make it healthier by using brown rice or cauliflower rice as a base, which adds extra fiber while keeping the dish light.

Recommended Products

1. Sempio Gochujang Korean Chili Paste

If you're serious about making authentic Kimchi Fried Rice, I highly recommend using a good-quality gochujang, like the Sempio Gochujang Korean Chili Paste. Gochujang adds an incredible depth of flavor with just the right amount of heat, making your Kimchi Bokkeumbap taste like it came from a Korean restaurant. Sempio's Gochujang is renowned for its unique "smoky heat," which imparts a complex spiciness to your dishes. Enjoy the exquisitely distinct taste it brings to your culinary creations, and brings authentic Korean heat to any dish.

Don’t settle for bland stir-fries—elevate your cooking with the perfect balance of spice and sweetness! Grab your Sempio Gochujang now!

2. Zojirushi Rice Cooker

A great Kimchi Fried Rice recipe starts with perfectly cooked rice, and that’s where the Zojirushi Rice Cooker comes in. This top-rated rice cooker ensures fluffy rice every time, which is crucial for making great fried rice. It’s versatile, easy to use, and a must-have for anyone who cooks rice regularly.

Make perfectly cooked rice a breeze with the Zojirushi Rice Cooker! Check it out on Amazon!

Book Recommendation

“Korean Home Cooking: Classic and Modern Recipes” by Sohui Kim

For anyone looking to dive deeper into Korean cuisine, I highly recommend “Korean Home Cooking: Classic and Modern Recipes” by Sohui Kim. This cookbook is packed with authentic recipes, from beginner-friendly dishes like Kimchi Fried Rice to more elaborate meals. It’s beautifully illustrated and will help you master Korean flavors in your own kitchen.

Want to explore more delicious Korean dishes? Pick up your copy of "Korean Home Cooking" today!

Simple Variations and Tips

1. Protein Swaps: Don’t have chicken or tuna? Try shrimp, beef, or tofu instead.

2. Vegetarian/Vegan Version: Simply omit the egg and meat, and add more veggies or tofu.

3. Spice Level: Adjust the heat by adding more or less gochujang or chili flakes to suit your taste.

4. Storage: This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, making it ideal for meal prep.

I hope you love this Kimchi Fried Rice recipe as much as I do! It’s quick, easy, and customizable, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re adding chicken, tuna, or keeping it simple, this dish is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s packed with healthy ingredients like kimchi, making it a nutritious choice for you and your family.

Give it a try and let me know in the comments how it turned out. Don’t forget to experiment with different proteins and spice levels to make it your own. Happy cooking!