Spicy and Sweet Stir-fried Baby Octopus Bibimbap
Super Simple One-Bowl Meal: Easy Baby Octopus Bibimbap Recipe
When it’s hot and you don’t feel like cooking soup or preparing side dishes, this dish is a lifesaver! Using pre-made spicy baby octopus (nakji-jeotgal) or squid, you can whip up a delicious one-bowl meal that’s perfect for when your appetite is weak. The delightful combination of fresh vegetables and chewy baby octopus will fill your mouth with happiness and revive your appetite.
Main Ingredients- 2 Tbsp marinated baby octopus (nakji-jeotgal)
- 3 lettuce leaves
- 1 handful of bean sprouts or similar greens
- 1 egg
Seasoning & Garnish- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare all the ingredients for your bibimbap. You’ll need 2 tablespoons of marinated baby octopus, 3 fresh lettuce leaves, about a handful of crisp bean sprouts (or mixed greens), and 1 egg to fry. Once these are ready, the cooking part is almost done!
Step 2
There’s no need for extra seasoning, as the store-bought marinated baby octopus (nakji-jeotgal) already provides plenty of flavor. Use 2 tablespoons of this delicious ingredient. Its spicy and savory notes will be the star of your bibimbap. Adjust the amount based on the saltiness of your octopus and your personal preference.
Step 3
Wash the lettuce leaves thoroughly and then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them too small can reduce the crunch, while pieces that are too large can be awkward to mix and eat. Aim for a size that’s easy to handle.
Step 4
Fry the egg to your desired doneness. Many people find a sunny-side-up egg with a slightly runny yolk adds wonderful richness to bibimbap. Lightly grease a pan, add the egg, and cook slowly over low heat.
Step 5
Now, place a generous serving of warm cooked rice into your serving bowl. Spread the rice slightly so the surface is relatively flat, as you’ll be arranging the toppings on top.
Step 6
Artfully arrange the chopped lettuce and the fresh bean sprouts (or mixed greens) over the rice. The vibrant colors of the vegetables will make your bibimbap look even more appealing and appetizing.
Step 7
Next, place the star of this dish, the delicious marinated baby octopus, attractively on top of the vegetables. The vibrant red of the octopus is sure to whet your appetite!
Step 8
Finally, gently place the fried egg on top of the baby octopus. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of fragrant sesame oil all around for an extra layer of nutty flavor. Sprinkle a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for a final touch of texture and aroma. Your beautiful Baby Octopus Bibimbap is now complete! Mix everything together and enjoy this delightful meal!