Now that Squid game is back on top of the list of most watched Netflix series, it's time for a Korean recipe. And if you're a fan of colorful dishes full of flavor and healthy ingredients, then you should definitely try bibimbap ! This iconic Korean dish literally means 'mixed rice' and consists of a bowl of rice, colorful vegetables, meat (preferably crispy ground beef) or tofu, and a fried egg. Everything is seasoned with the spicy, sweet and savory Korean chili sauce, gochujang. Not only a super tasty dish, also super easy to make, just like a sushi bowl .
In this blog I will take you into the world of bibimbap: what it is, why it is so popular, and how to make it at home. Including an easy recipe that you can start making right away.
What is bibimbap?
Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that can be found in restaurants and at home. The secret is the perfect balance of flavors and textures: fluffy rice, crunchy vegetables, savory meat or tofu, and a fried egg on top. The unique flavor of gochujang ties it all together.
One of the best things about bibimbap is that you can vary the ingredients endlessly. The dish is perfect for using up leftover vegetables or meat, which also makes it a sustainable choice!
Why is bibimbap so loved?
- Healthy and nutritious : The dish is packed with fresh vegetables, proteins and complex carbohydrates.
- Easy to customize : Whether you're vegan, vegetarian or a true meat lover, bibimbap can be customized to your liking.
- Flavor explosion : Thanks to the combination of umami -rich gochujang , crunchy vegetables and tender proteins, it is a taste experience.
The bibimbap recipe
Ingredients
For 2 persons, ±700 kcal per person.
- 200 grams brown rice
- 1 carrot, julienne cut
- 100 grams shiitake or other mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 100 grams of bean sprouts
- 200 grams of ground beef (chicken thigh or beef strips are also possible)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar, maple syrup or sweetener of choice
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili sauce, available at the Asian store or online) or homemade chili oil
- Sesame seeds and spring onion, for garnish
- Optional: (homemade) kimchi
Preparation method
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Cook the rice : Prepare the rice according to the instructions on the package.
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Preparing vegetables :
- Stir fry the carrot and shiitake separately in a little sesame oil until al dente. Season with a pinch of salt.
- Keep the cucumber and bean sprouts raw for a fresh bite.
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Preparing minced meat :
- Heat 1 tablespoon sesame oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the finely chopped onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the minced meat and fry until crumbly. Let it become slightly crispy for extra texture.
- Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, maple syrup or sweetener, and a pinch of pepper. Stir well and let the mince simmer for a little while. Turn off the heat in time and be careful that it does not stick!
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Frying an egg : Fry the eggs like fried eggs, so that the yolk remains soft.
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Serving : Divide the rice between two bowls. Arrange the carrot, shiitake, bean sprouts, cucumber, kimchi and crispy minced meat in nice heaps on top of the rice. Place the fried egg in the middle.
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Add sauce : Scoop a spoonful of gochujang on top and garnish with sesame seeds and finely chopped spring onion.
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Mix and enjoy : Mix everything well before you start eating, so that the flavors come together perfectly.
Variation tips
- For extra crunch, you can use crumbled and roasted seaweed sheets or fried onions.
- Want a spicier bibimbap? Use extra gochujang or a pinch of chili flakes.
- Experiment with more vegetables, like thinly sliced radishes, pickled vegetables, or even avocado for a creamy twist.
Maybe your new favorite?
With this bibimbap on the table, you not only have a colorful and healthy meal, but also a dish with which you can vary endlessly. Whether you choose extra gochujang, a crispy twist with fried onions, or simply enjoy the fresh cucumber and savory minced meat, this bowl is always a hit.
Looking for more culinary inspiration?
View all recipes on Happlify here and discover even more cheerful dishes that you can make at home. Enjoy and eat well!
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