Bibimbap: The Quintessential Korean Dish
Bibimbap, which literally means "mixed rice," is one of the most iconic dishes in Korean cuisine. This vibrant and nutritious bowl typically consists of a base of steamed rice topped with assorted vegetables, a protein such as beef or tofu, a fried egg, and is often garnished with sesame seeds and seaweed. The dish is brought together with a dollop of Gochujang (Korean chili paste), which adds a spicy, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavor. For our recipe, we recommend using Sempio Gochujang, available in our webshop, to achieve an authentic taste.
Ingredients for Bibimbap:
- 2 cups of steamed rice
- 200 grams of beef, thinly sliced (or substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option)
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 1 zucchini, julienned
- 1 cup of spinach, blanched and squeezed dry
- 200 grams of bean sprouts, blanched
- 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- Salt and sesame seeds for seasoning
- Sempio Gochujang (Korean chili paste) for serving
Instructions:
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Prepare the Ingredients:
- Sauté each vegetable separately in a small amount of sesame oil and season with salt. Set aside.
- Quickly sauté the beef with a touch of sesame oil until cooked. Alternatively, prepare tofu if using.
- Fry the eggs sunny side up.
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Assemble the Bibimbap:
- In a bowl, place a base of steamed rice.
- Arrange the vegetables and beef (or tofu) neatly on top of the rice.
- Place the fried egg in the center.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and add a spoonful of Sempio Gochujang on top.
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Serve:
- Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before eating to enjoy the full flavor of the dish.
Tips for the Perfect Bibimbap:
- Use a stone bowl (Dolsot) if available, to serve the Bibimbap. This will keep the dish hot and make the rice crispy at the bottom.
- Experiment with different vegetables according to season or preference to make your Bibimbap colorful and nutritious.
Bibimbap not only offers a delightful eating experience but also embodies the balance and harmony of Korean cuisine. The interplay of textures, flavors, and colors in Bibimbap makes it a popular choice both at home and in restaurants worldwide. With Sempio Gochujang, you can bring an authentic Korean flavor to your table, enhancing the dish's depth and appeal.