Chef Lee Sang-min’s Tofu Kimbap
[Solo Meal Recipe] Easy and Delicious Tofu Kimbap by Lee Sang-min from ‘Sumi’s Side Dishes’
Introducing the easy-to-follow Tofu Kimbap recipe by Chef Lee Sang-min, featured in the popular Korean show ‘Sumi’s Side Dishes’. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying solo meal, offering a simple yet delightful culinary experience.
Core Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu (approx. 300g)
- 2 bowls of cooked rice
- 4 sheets of dried seaweed (gim) for kimbap
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the rice. In warm cooked rice, add a pinch of salt, a pinch of vinegar, some toasted sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Gently mix to combine, ensuring the rice grains remain intact. This creates a flavorful base for your kimbap.
Step 2
Wash the Korean green chili peppers and remove their stems. Finely chop them. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can substitute or add some chopped Cheongyang chili peppers.
Step 3
Cut the tofu into long strips. Before frying, thoroughly pat the tofu dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial to prevent oil splattering and to achieve a crispy texture. Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the tofu strips and fry until golden brown on all sides.
Step 4
Continue to fry the tofu until it’s a beautiful golden-brown color and crispy. Remove the fried tofu from the pan and place it on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Let it cool slightly.
Step 5
Lay a sheet of dried seaweed (gim) on a kimbap rolling mat. Spread a thin, even layer of the prepared rice over the seaweed, leaving a small border at the top. Arrange the fried tofu strips lengthwise on top of the rice. Drizzle generously with mayonnaise and then with teriyaki sauce.
Step 6
Scatter the chopped Korean green chili peppers over the tofu and sauces. The fresh, slightly spicy crunch of the peppers will add another dimension to the kimbap’s flavor.
Step 7
Now, carefully roll the kimbap. Start from the bottom edge closest to you, rolling tightly. Use a bit of mashed rice at the top edge of the seaweed to seal the roll, ensuring it doesn’t unravel. Press firmly as you roll to create a compact shape. It’s surprisingly easy!
Step 8
Once rolled, slice the kimbap into bite-sized pieces. Arrange them on a serving plate. You’ve now created delicious Tofu Kimbap, featuring crispy fried tofu and a flavorful filling. Enjoy your meal!
