Description
Gyeran Bap, a simple yet flavorful Korean comfort food, is the ultimate quick meal made with warm steamed rice, a perfectly fried egg, and a savory blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, and butter. This dish is budget-friendly, satisfying, and easily customizable, making it perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a lazy dinner. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious, nostalgic meal in minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups cooked short-grain rice (or jasmine rice)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon regular soy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon finely sliced green onion
- ½ teaspoon vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
Optional Add-Ins
- Kimchi
- Canned tuna
- Roasted seaweed flakes
- Avocado slices
- Sautéed carrots, spinach, or zucchini
- Extra protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- If using freshly cooked rice, place it in a serving bowl.
- Add butter and mix until fully melted and incorporated.
- If using leftover rice, microwave it for 2-3 minutes until hot before adding the butter.
Step 2: Fry the Egg
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and add vegetable oil.
- Crack the egg into the pan and fry sunny side up until the whites are set, but the yolk remains runny.
- For crispier edges, add a little more oil.
- For a fully cooked yolk, cover the pan with a lid and cook on low heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
- Place the fried egg on top of the buttered rice.
- Drizzle sesame oil and soy sauce over the egg.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions on top.
- Mix well before eating to ensure all flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Enjoy!
- Serve as-is or customize with your favorite toppings like kimchi, tuna, or avocado for an extra flavorful twist.
Notes
- Rice Choice: Short-grain white rice is best for Gyeran Bap, but jasmine rice works as a substitute. Avoid long-grain varieties.
- Vegan Option: Replace the egg with scrambled tofu and use plant-based butter.
- Spicy Version: Add gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) or gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a kick.
- Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before eating.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean