Savory Eggplant Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
How to Make Delicious Eggplant Kimchi Fried Rice
Whip up a delightful meal using leftover eggplant and kimchi! This recipe combines the delightful chewiness of eggplant with the zesty kick of fermented kimchi, all stir-fried together with rice for a comforting and flavorful dish. It’s simple to make yet packed with deep, satisfying flavors that everyone will love. Perfect for a quick and hearty lunch or dinner!
Main Ingredients- 200g Cooked Rice (preferably warm)
- 1 medium Eggplant
- 100g Well-fermented Kimchi
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the eggplant thoroughly, pat it dry, and dice it into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 cm. Try not to cut them too small, as they can become mushy when stir-fried.
Step 2
Finely chop the kimchi using scissors or a knife. If the kimchi pieces are too large, they might affect the texture of the fried rice. Aim for even, small pieces that will mix well with the rice.
Step 3
Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a frying pan over medium heat. The nutty aroma of sesame oil will enhance the flavor of your fried rice. Keep the heat at a medium level.
Step 4
Add the chopped kimchi and diced eggplant to the pan. Stir-fry them over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until the eggplant softens slightly and the kimchi becomes tender. Be careful not to burn the eggplant by using excessively high heat.
Step 5
Once the eggplant and kimchi are partially cooked, add 0.5 tablespoon of sugar. Sugar helps to balance the sourness of the kimchi and adds a subtle sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Adjust the amount based on how sour your kimchi is.
Step 6
Next, add 1 tablespoon of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and stir-fry well. Make sure to break up any clumps of chili flakes to ensure even distribution and a vibrant color and spicy flavor.
Step 7
Finally, add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are well-coated with the seasoning. Keep an eye on the heat to prevent the soy sauce from burning.
Step 8
Now, add the 200g of warm cooked rice to the pan. Use your spatula to press down and mix the rice thoroughly, ensuring that every grain is coated with the flavorful seasoning. It’s important to break up any clumps and achieve a fluffy texture.
Step 9
Once the rice is well-mixed with the seasoning and has a glossy appearance, turn off the heat. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the top for an extra nutty aroma and flavor.
Step 10
Transfer the finished eggplant kimchi fried rice to a serving plate. Present it beautifully for a delicious and satisfying meal that boasts rich flavors and aromas. Enjoy your meal!
