Best and Easy Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi Fried Rice is the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold flavors and wants a quick, delicious meal. This easy and flavorful fried rice is made with spicy, tangy kimchi and a combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a satisfying, savory dish. The rice is stir-fried to perfection with the kimchi, vegetables, and a fried egg on top, making it a complete meal that’s both hearty and comforting.
- 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old rice
- 1 cup kimchi chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or sesame oil for extra flavor
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 onion diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots optional
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil optional
- 1 tablespoon gochujang Korean chili paste
- 1-2 eggs for frying on top
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions chopped (for garnish)
- Toasted sesame seeds optional, for garnish
repare the Ingredients:
If using day-old rice, break up any clumps so the grains are separate. Chop the kimchi into small pieces and set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced onion, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the Kimchi:
Add the chopped kimchi to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly and become more fragrant. If you like a stronger kimchi flavor, you can cook it for a bit longer.
Stir-Fry the Rice:
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any large clumps. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes until the rice is heated through and begins to crisp up slightly.
Add the Flavorings:
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and gochujang (chili paste). Mix everything until well combined and the rice takes on a beautiful reddish color. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Fry the Egg:
In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat and fry the egg(s) to your liking (sunny side up or scrambled). Place the egg on top of the fried rice once it's done.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the kimchi fried rice with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and texture. Serve immediately while it’s warm!