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The Best and Easiest Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice, or "Kimchi Bokkeumbap," is a vibrant and satisfying dish that not only celebrates Korean flavours but also makes the most of leftovers. With its signature spicy and savoury notes, this meal is a splendid way to enjoy the rich, fermented taste of kimchi while creating a quick, delicious dinner. In this article, we’ll guide you through the simplest way to prepare this culinary delight that’s bound to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients

To whip up the best and easiest Kimchi Fried Rice, you will need:

• 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old for the best texture)
• 1 cup of kimchi (chopped, with some kimchi juice)
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or sesame oil for a nuttier flavour)
• 1 onion (finely chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 carrot (diced)
• 2 spring onions (sliced)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Soy sauce (to taste)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Optional toppings: sesame seeds, sliced radishes, or seaweed

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are prepped. This includes chopping the kimchi, dicing the onion and carrot, and slicing the spring onions. If you’re using leftovers, ensure the rice is cold and clumped together to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large frying pan or wok, heat the vegetable or sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened, followed by the minced garlic and diced carrot. Stir-fry these ingredients for another 2-3 minutes until they are fragrant and the carrots have started to become tender.

Step 3: Add the Kimchi

Stir in the chopped kimchi, including a splash of the kimchi juice for added flavour. Allow it to fry for about 3-5 minutes, letting the kimchi caramelise slightly and incorporating its rich taste into the dish.

Step 4: Incorporate the Rice

Add the day-old rice to the frying pan and break apart any clumps with a spatula. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the rice is coated in the spicy kimchi mixture. Season the dish with soy sauce, salt, and pepper, adjusting to your taste. Fry for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the rice to heat through completely.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan and add a touch more oil to the cleared side. Pour in the beaten eggs and stir gently to scramble them. Once the eggs are softly cooked, mix them into the fried rice until well combined.

Step 6: Finish with Spring Onions

Finally, stir in the sliced spring onions just before serving for a burst of freshness. Optional toppings such as sesame seeds or sliced radishes can also be added to elevate the flavours.

Serving Suggestions

Kimchi Fried Rice is delicious on its own, but to make it even more special, consider pairing it with some additional toppings. A fried or poached egg on top can add creaminess, while a side of pickled vegetables will provide a refreshing crunch. This dish also goes wonderfully with marinated meats or a simple salad.

Conclusion

In just under 30 minutes, you can create this tasty, comforting dish that embodies the essence of Korean cuisine. Kimchi Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together bold flavours and satisfying textures. It’s versatile enough to cater to all dietary preferences, allowing you to add in proteins like chicken, tofu, or prawns if you wish. So, next time you have leftover rice and kimchi, remember this easy recipe and treat yourself to a delightful culinary journey that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy your cooking!