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Kimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)

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  • Author: Asma
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Snack
  • Method: Rolling
  • Cuisine: Korean

Description

Kimbap (Korean seaweed rice rolls) is a delicious and versatile dish filled with seasoned beef, vibrant vegetables, fluffy omelette strips, and pickled daikon. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a meal on the go, this classic Korean recipe is both flavorful and fun to make!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Rice:

  • 2 1/4 cups Japanese short-grain white rice
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil (toasted)
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • 3 pinches Diamond Crystal kosher salt

For the Beef:

  • 3/4 lb beef (chuck or ribeye), thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil (toasted)

For the Vegetables and Filling:

  • 1 large carrot (5.6 oz/160 g), julienned
  • 1 bunch spinach, blanched and squeezed dry
  • 1 takuan (pickled daikon radish), cut into long strips
  • 2 large eggs, beaten and cooked into thin omelette strips
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil (for cooking)

For Assembly:

  • 6 sheets nori (seaweed)
  • 2 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted white)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a rice cooker or pot and cook according to the rice cooker instructions or on the stovetop.
  2. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a large bowl. While it’s still warm, mix in sesame oil, sugar, and salt. Let the rice cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

  1. In a bowl, combine beef, minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for 15-20 minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated beef until fully cooked. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables and Egg

  1. In the same skillet, heat neutral oil over medium heat. Sauté the julienned carrots for 2-3 minutes until tender. Season lightly with salt and set aside.
  2. Blanch the spinach in boiling water for 1 minute, then drain and squeeze out excess water. Season with a pinch of salt and 1 tsp sesame oil.
  3. Beat the eggs and cook into a thin omelette. Let it cool and slice into strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Kimbap

  1. Lay a sheet of nori shiny side down on a bamboo sushi mat. Spread an even layer of rice (about ¾ cup) over the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
  2. Arrange the fillings horizontally near the bottom third of the rice: beef, carrots, spinach, omelette strips, and pickled daikon.
  3. Use the bamboo mat to tightly roll the kimbap, starting from the bottom and rolling upward. Press firmly to secure the roll.

Step 5: Slice and Serve

  1. Lightly brush the roll with sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
  2. Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into ¾-inch slices. Serve immediately or pack for later.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
  • Wet the knife with water to prevent sticking while slicing the kimbap.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.