Kimchi Fried Rice is a popular Korean dish that's loved for its tangy, fiery kick. Our vegan take on this classic dish retains all the original flavors using completely plant-based ingredients. It's simple, hearty, and packed with nutritious goodness.
Kimchi is the star ingredient of this dish, delivering unique taste and health benefits. It is a traditional Korean dish of fermented vegetables, mainly cabbage and radishes, with chili pepper. You can find it in the refrigerated section of most supermarkets or Asian grocery stores. The kimchi brine, which is the liquid from the kimchi, adds extra flavor to the rice. Rice wine vinegar is another key ingredient that brings a subtle tang to the dish. It is commonly available in the vinegar section of supermarkets.
Essential Ingredients for Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing the ingredients and giving the dish a smooth texture.
Red onion: Adds a sweet and sharp flavor.
Garlic: Gives a robust and aromatic flavor.
Ginger: Adds a spicy and warm flavor.
Kimchi: Gives the dish its unique spicy and tangy flavor.
Rice wine vinegar: Adds a mild and sweet tanginess.
White rice: The base of the dish, provides a neutral palette that absorbs all other flavors.
White sugar: Balances the heat of the kimchi.
Soy sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor.
Kimchi brine: Adds extra tanginess and spices to the dish.
Sesame oil: Gives a nutty, toasted flavor.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors in the dish.
Ground black pepper: Adds a bit of heat.
One reader, Guthry Bach says:
This vegan Korean kimchi fried rice recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so vibrant and the dish is incredibly satisfying. I love how the kimchi adds a delicious tanginess to the rice. It's now a staple in my weekly meal rotation. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Techniques Required for Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
How to chop kimchi: Chop the kimchi into small pieces to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the fried rice and allows for better incorporation of its flavors.
How to cook rice: Cook the white rice according to package instructions, ensuring it is fluffy and not overly sticky for the fried rice.
How To Make Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
For a unique Korean flavor, we are making this vegan kimchi fried rice with sesame oil and a lot of ginger, plus white wine vinegar for umami.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1tbspvegetable oil
- ¼cupred onion,diced
- 1tbspgarlic,minced
- 1½tspginger,minced
- ½cupkimchi,finely chopped
- 1tbsprice wine vinegar
- 1cupwhite rice,day-old cooked
- 2tbspwhite sugar
- 2tbspsoy sauce
- 2tbspkimchi brine
- ½tbspsesame oil
- salt,to taste
- ground black pepper,to taste
Instructions
-
Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add red onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion softens, about 3 minutes.
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Increase heat to high and add chopped kimchi and vinegar. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, sugar, soy sauce, kimchi brine, and sesame oil.
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Cook and stir until heated through for about 5 minutes.
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Scrape the bottom of the skillet to prevent sticking. Season with salt and pepper.
Nutrition
- Calories: 532.36kcal
- Fat: 11.18g
- Saturated Fat: 1.13g
- Trans Fat: 0.05g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 6.59g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.85g
- Carbohydrates: 97.26g
- Fiber: 2.20g
- Sugar: 14.07g
- Protein: 9.08g
- Sodium: 1011.82mg
- Calcium: 52.54mg
- Potassium: 614.79mg
- Iron: 1.44mg
- Vitamin A: 4.39µg
- Vitamin C: 3.21mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
When cooking the kimchi fried rice, it's important to use day-old rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and can turn mushy when stir-fried. Day-old rice has had time to dry out a bit, making it perfect for frying as it stays separate and doesn't clump together. Also, don't be afraid to let the rice sit for a minute or two without stirring. This allows some of the rice to get a little crispy, adding a delightful texture to your dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Prep ahead: Chop the onions, garlic, and ginger in advance to save time during the cooking process.
Use leftover rice: Utilize leftover rice from a previous meal to cut down on cooking time.
One-pot wonder: Consider using a rice cooker to simplify the cooking process and minimize cleanup.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion of kimchi fried rice and store the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal option later in the week.
Substitute Ingredients For Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil has a similar high smoke point and adds a subtle tropical flavor to the dish.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can provide a more delicate taste to the fried rice.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing.
ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger, providing a convenient option with a slightly different flavor profile.
kimchi - Substitute with sauerkraut: Sauerkraut can be used as a substitute for kimchi, providing a tangy and crunchy element to the fried rice.
rice wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can provide a similar tangy acidity to the dish.
white rice - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative, adding a nuttier flavor and more texture to the fried rice.
white sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, providing a similar umami flavor.
kimchi brine - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar can provide a tangy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
sesame oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for sesame oil, providing a neutral flavor and high smoke point.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, providing a slightly different mineral flavor.
ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can provide a milder and slightly different flavor compared to black pepper.
Presenting Vegan Kimchi Fried Rice Beautifully
Elevate the plating: Arrange the kimchi fried rice in a neat and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a sprinkle of thinly sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top of the fried rice to enhance the visual appeal and add a pop of color.
Utilize elegant tableware: Select high-quality, minimalist tableware to present the kimchi fried rice, allowing the vibrant colors of the dish to stand out against the backdrop of the plate.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each element on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is precise and balanced, reflecting the attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Consider the negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the kimchi fried rice to be the focal point while maintaining an overall sense of harmony and sophistication in the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Large nonstick skillet: A large nonstick skillet is essential for cooking the fried rice without the ingredients sticking to the pan.
Spatula: A spatula is used for stirring and flipping the ingredients while cooking the fried rice.
Storing and Freezing Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Let the kimchi fried rice cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent the rice from becoming mushy and soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled fried rice to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, you can freeze the kimchi fried rice:
- Divide the cooled rice into individual portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Frozen kimchi fried rice can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated kimchi fried rice, simply microwave it in a covered dish or pan-fry it over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
For frozen fried rice, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen:
- To reheat from frozen in the microwave, place the frozen rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- To reheat from frozen on the stovetop, place the frozen rice in a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or vegetable broth, cover, and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
When reheating, you may need to add a little extra soy sauce, kimchi brine, or sesame oil to restore the flavor and moisture of the rice.
How To Reheat Leftover Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Stovetop method: heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. add the leftover vegan korean kimchi fried rice and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy. this method is best for restoring the texture and flavor of the fried rice.
Microwave method: place the leftover vegan korean kimchi fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the rice from drying out. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until heated through. this method is quick and convenient, but may result in a softer texture.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). spread the leftover vegan korean kimchi fried rice in an even layer on a baking sheet. cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil to prevent the rice from drying out. bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. this method is best for reheating larger quantities of fried rice.
Steaming method: place the leftover vegan korean kimchi fried rice in a heat-proof bowl. place the bowl in a steamer basket over boiling water. cover and steam for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. this method helps to retain the moisture in the rice, resulting in a softer texture.
Stir-fry with additional ingredients: heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. add diced vegetables, such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. add the leftover vegan korean kimchi fried rice and stir-fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and well combined. this method allows you to add extra nutrients and flavors to the dish.
Interesting Fact About Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
The Korean dish kimchi fried rice is a popular way to use up leftover rice and kimchi. It's a great way to add flavor and spice to a simple dish. Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made of fermented vegetables, usually cabbage and radishes, and a variety of seasonings. It's known for its unique tangy and spicy flavor, and it's also a great source of probiotics. This dish is a perfect example of how traditional Korean flavors can be incorporated into a vegan dish, making it both delicious and nutritious.
Is Making Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice at Home Cost-Effective?
This vegan Korean kimchi fried rice recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as rice and kimchi, are budget-friendly and readily available. The addition of soy sauce and sesame oil enhances the flavors without adding significant costs. Overall, this dish is a great option for a budget-friendly and satisfying meal. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious flavors. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$12, making it an economical choice for a flavorful meal.
Is This Vegan Korean Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The vegan Korean kimchi fried rice recipe is a relatively healthy dish with some room for improvement. The recipe includes several nutritious ingredients such as kimchi, which is rich in probiotics and vitamins, and ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. The use of vegetable oil and sesame oil provides healthy fats, while the inclusion of red onion and garlic adds flavor and potential health benefits.
However, the recipe also contains a significant amount of sugar and soy sauce, which can contribute to high sodium and sugar intake. The white rice used in the recipe is a refined carbohydrate, which may cause blood sugar spikes and provide fewer nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Reduce the amount of sugar used or replace it with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or date paste
- Use low-sodium soy sauce or replace it with coconut aminos to decrease sodium intake
- Add more vegetables such as carrots, peas, or bell peppers to increase the dish's overall nutrient density
- Incorporate a plant-based protein source like tofu, tempeh, or edamame to make the meal more balanced and satisfying
By making these adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the vegan Korean kimchi fried rice while still enjoying its delicious flavors. Experimenting with different ingredients and proportions can help you find the perfect balance that suits your taste preferences and health goals.
Editor's Opinion on This Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
The recipe for vegan Korean kimchi fried rice is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. The combination of tangy kimchi, aromatic ginger, and savory soy sauce creates a harmonious balance. The dish offers a satisfying umami taste with a hint of sweetness, making it a delightful option for those seeking a vegan-friendly and flavorful meal. The cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and exciting. This recipe is a wonderful way to introduce Korean flavors into a vegan diet, and it's sure to become a favorite for anyone who enjoys bold, spicy, and satisfying dishes.
Enhance Your Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Why trust this Vegan Korean Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tangy and spicy notes of kimchi with the savory richness of fried rice. The use of rice wine vinegar enhances the depth of flavor, while the addition of sesame oil provides a delightful nuttiness. The inclusion of ginger and garlic infuses the dish with aromatic warmth, and the careful balance of soy sauce and kimchi brine ensures a perfect umami profile. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering and satisfying vegan Korean kimchi fried rice experience.
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