Kimbap is a popular Korean dish that resembles sushi rolls but is uniquely Korean in flavor and ingredients. It typically includes seasoned rice, various fillings like vegetables and proteins, all rolled up in a sheet of dried seaweed (nori). Kimbap is perfect for picnics, lunches, or as a snack. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and slightly salty flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Rice:
- 2 cups sushi rice or short-grain rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 1/4 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Fillings:
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 cucumber, julienned
- 5 strips yellow pickled radish (danmuji)
- 1 bunch spinach, blanched and squeezed dry
- 1/2 lb (about 225g) beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional:
- 4 sheets of dried seaweed (nori)
- Sesame oil and salt for seasoning
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Directions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Cook the rice according to the package instructions or in a rice cooker with 2 1/2 cups of water.
- While the rice is still warm, mix in rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir gently and let it cool to room temperature.
- For the beef filling, marinate the beef slices in soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar, salt, and pepper for about 15-20 minutes. Then, cook the beef in a pan over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Set aside.
- Sauté the julienned carrot with a little sesame oil and salt until soft. Do the same with the cucumber, but make sure not to overcook it (it should remain crisp). Set the cooked vegetables aside.
- Place a sheet of nori on a bamboo rolling mat. Spread an even layer of rice over the nori, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
- Arrange a small amount of each filling in lines across the rice, about a third of the way up from the bottom.
- Lift the bottom edge of the mat over the fillings, tucking the nori sheet to start a roll. Gently roll it forward, keeping the fillings in place with your fingers. Press down lightly with the mat to shape and seal the roll. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
- Brush the finished rolls with a bit of sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.
- Slice each roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp, wet knife to prevent sticking.
- Serve the Kimbap with soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 15g
Prep and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings:
- Serves: 4 people
Kimbap is a delightful and versatile dish, allowing for various fillings based on your preference. It’s a great way to explore Korean flavors in a fun and interactive manner. Enjoy these seaweed rice rolls as a satisfying meal or a portable snack!
