20 Minutes Kimchi Fried Rice: A Quick & Flavorful Meal
Some nights, you just need something fast, delicious, and satisfying. That’s why I’m sharing one of my go-to recipes for busy days—Kimchi Fried Rice. It’s got the perfect balance of tangy, spicy, and savory flavors, and the best part? It comes together in just 20 minutes!
Tips for the Best Kimchi Fried Rice
- Use Any Rice: While day-old rice gives a firmer texture, fresh rice works too—just let it cool slightly before stir-frying.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Add more gochujang for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Customize It: Toss in mushrooms, spinach, or tofu for added variety.
Kimchi Fried Rice
This quick and flavorful kimchi fried rice is my go-to! Spicy, tangy, and packed with umami—ready in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup Kimchi chopped
- 3 cups Cooked jasmine rice
- 4-6 strips Bacon chopped (or add more oil for a vegetarian version), add more if you desire
- 1 tbsp Neutral oil adjust based on the fattiness of the bacon
Sauce
- ¼ cup Kimchi juice add more water and gochujang if don't have enough
- 1 tsp Soy sauce
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1-2 tbsp Gochujang Korean chili paste, adjust to taste
- 2 tsp Sesame oil
- Salt to taste (if needed)
- 1 Egg for topping, optional
- Green onions & sesame seeds for garnish, optional
- Roasted seaweed sheets cut into stripes, optional
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Mix kimchi juice, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and gochujang in a small bowl. Adjust the gochujang amount based on your spice preference. Set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp oil and chopped bacon. Cook until crispy. If skipping bacon, add 1 more tbsp oil instead. Adjust the amount of oil used based on the fattiness of the bacon.
- Sauté the Kimchi: Add the chopped kimchi and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to bring out its deep flavor.
- Add the Rice: Toss in the cooked rice and pour in the sauce. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed and heated through. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Top It Off: Fry an egg separately and place it on top of the rice. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Enjoy! Serve hot and dig in!
