Gimbap

Gimbap – delicious North Korean rice rolls
North-Korea
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Gimbap is a beloved North Korean dish made from rice and various fillings rolled in seaweed. Often enjoyed as a snack or meal on-the-go, it's popular among locals for picnics and street food stalls. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also reflects the country's culinary culture.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~400 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 10 sheets seaweed (nori)
  • 1/2 pound beef (or tofu for a vegetarian version), thinly sliced
  • 2 carrots, julienned
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4-5 eggs
  • 1/2 cup pickled radish, sliced
  • 1/2 cup spinach, blanched
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Pickled ginger (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Beef (or Tofu)

In a pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the beef (or tofu) and cook until browned and fully cooked.

Season with a bit of soy sauce and salt to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

Sauté the carrots in a bit of oil until tender. Season with salt.

Blanch the spinach in boiling water for about 1 minute, then rinse with cold water. Squeeze out excess water and season with a bit of sesame oil and salt.

Slice the cucumber into thin strips.

Prepare the Eggs

In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with a pinch of salt.

Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and make a thin omelet. Cook both sides until fully set. Remove and slice into thin strips.

Prepare the Rice

In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with sesame oil and a pinch of salt.

Assemble the Gimbap

Place a sheet of seaweed on a bamboo sushi mat, shiny side down.

Spread a thin layer of rice over the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top edge.

Arrange the beef (or tofu), carrots, cucumber, pickled radish, spinach, and egg strips in a line across the rice, closer to the bottom edge.

Roll the Gimbap

Using the bamboo mat, gently roll the seaweed over the fillings, pressing firmly to shape the roll. Seal the edge with a bit of water.

Slice the Gimbap

Using a sharp knife, slice the roll into bite-sized pieces. Wipe the knife with a damp cloth between cuts to keep it from sticking.

Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gimbap?

Gimbap is a Korean dish consisting of rice, vegetables, and protein rolled in seaweed. It's often sliced into bite-sized pieces.

Where does Gimbap come from?

Gimbap has its origins in Korea, with distinct variations found in both North and South Korea.

What are the main ingredients in Gimbap?

Key ingredients include short-grain rice, seaweed, beef or tofu, carrots, cucumber, and eggs.

How long does Gimbap take to make?

Making Gimbap takes approximately 80-110 minutes in total.

What do you serve with Gimbap?

Gimbap is often served with pickled radish and a side of kimchi for added flavor.