Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
Imagine a dish so simple it feels like a cozy hug in a bowl, yet so endlessly satisfying you’ll crave it time and again—this is the magic of Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice). In just minutes, warm, fluffy rice melds with a runny fried egg, nutty sesame oil, and a swirl of savory soy, all brightened with crisp green onions and a sprinkle of seeds. There’s a reason this is a beloved comfort staple in countless Korean households: Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) is unfussy, nourishing, and every bite tastes like home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential; together, they create a dish that balances savory, nutty, buttery, and fresh elements in a way that feels both uplifting and deeply satisfying.
- Cooked Short-Grain White Rice (1 cup, warm): Go for freshly cooked, soft, and slightly sticky rice to perfect the dish’s comforting texture.
- Large Egg (1): The star of the show—fry it until the white sets but leave the yolk runny for creamy richness, or adjust to your taste.
- Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds a deep, umami backbone that ties everything together.
- Toasted Sesame Oil (1 teaspoon): Brings a nutty aroma that elevates simple rice to something special.
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 tablespoon): Enhances the fry and adds a velvety, indulgent finish.
- Sesame Seeds (1 teaspoon): Sprinkle for crunch and another layer of toasty flavor.
- Green Onion (1, thinly sliced): Gives a fresh, sharp contrast to the warm and rich elements.
- Black Pepper (to taste): Just a pinch here offers a gentle background heat.
- Optional Roasted Seaweed or Kimchi: For an extra layer of flavor, serve alongside to create a truly authentic Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) experience!
How to Make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice)
Step 1: Fry the Egg to Perfection
Start by heating a small nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling it around the pan. Crack your egg right into the sizzling pool and cook it just until the white solidifies—leave that yolk gloriously runny for the creamiest mixing later! Adjust the doneness to your liking, but a soft yolk is the classic win here.
Step 2: Dress the Warm Rice
While the egg is frying away, scoop your warm, cooked rice into a bowl. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil right over the top, then gently mix it all together. This step infuses the rice with savory, nutty notes, creating a deeply satisfying foundation for the toppings.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
Once your egg is ready, slide it gently onto the dressed rice. Immediately sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onion, and a pinch of black pepper. The heat from the rice will slightly wilt the green onions, blending crunch and warmth.
Step 4: The Signature Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Mix
Right before eating, use your spoon to break the yolk and mix everything together. Watch as the golden yolk coats every grain of rice, making each bite irresistibly creamy and flavorful—this is what makes Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) so beloved!
Step 5: Optional Extras
For an authentic Korean touch, pair your bowl with roasted seaweed or a scoop of kimchi. If you want, you can even mix in bits of crispy spam, bacon, or lightly sautéed vegetables—Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) is endlessly customizable for whatever your heart (or fridge) desires.
How to Serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice)
Garnishes
The finishing touches really elevate this humble bowl. Freshly sliced green onions add color and crunch, while sesame seeds offer just the right pop of toasty nuttiness. If you’re a spice lover, a dash of chili flakes or a tiny splash of chili oil adds gentle heat without masking the classic flavors.
Side Dishes
You can keep it simple, or go big: serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) with classic Korean sides like kimchi for tangy brightness or roasted seaweed sheets for added umami. Pickled radish, cucumber salad, and even a bowl of miso soup all make fantastic partners at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) can be dressed up for brunch or served family-style for a cozy lunch. Try using a wide, shallow bowl for a beautiful presentation, and scatter extra toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their perfect bite. For kids or guests, use cookie cutters to shape the rice before topping with the egg—it’s a playful twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) to an airtight container and refrigerate up to two days. The egg and rice may firm up, but they’ll still be delicious when reheated (just add fresh toppings).
Freezing
Freezing isn’t recommended for Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice), as both rice and fried eggs lose their lovely texture after thawing. If you must freeze, store just the rice portion (without egg or garnishes) and make fresh eggs when ready to serve.
Reheating
For best results, reheat refrigerated Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) in the microwave, covered loosely with a damp paper towel to keep in moisture. Add a splash of water or a little extra sesame oil if the rice seems dry before adding a freshly fried egg and new toppings.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice or another grain instead of white rice?
Absolutely! While traditional Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) uses short-grain white rice for its stickiness and comforting texture, brown rice, quinoa, or multigrain blends also work and add a nutty, wholesome flavor.
Is Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) gluten-free?
It can be! Just be sure to use a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Otherwise, all the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an accessible dish for many diets.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Some love crumbled roasted seaweed, thinly sliced avocado, sautéed mushrooms, or even leftover grilled meats for extra protein. Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) is a canvas for all your favorite flavors.
How can I make a vegan version?
Swap the egg for tofu scramble, use plant-based butter, and drizzle with a bit more sesame oil or even a touch of vegan kimchi. The core flavors will still shine in a vegan Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice).
Why is Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) considered Korean comfort food?
This dish is synonymous with homey, nurturing meals in Korea—it’s what people make when they need something tasty, fast, and comforting. The simple combination of rice and egg hits all the right notes, making it a staple in everyday life.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that satisfies on every level, you really can’t beat Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice). It’s quick, nourishing, and infinitely adaptable—let it become your new favorite go-to recipe for busy days or moments that just need a little extra comfort. Give it a try and you’ll see why this humble Korean bowl is cherished by so many!
Print
Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gyeran Bap, or Korean Egg Rice, is a simple and satisfying dish that combines warm rice with a fried egg, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. This comforting meal is easy to customize and perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked short-grain white rice (warm)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion (thinly sliced)
- Black pepper to taste
- Optional: roasted seaweed or kimchi for serving
Instructions
- Fry the Egg: Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Crack the egg into the skillet and fry until the white is set and the yolk is still runny, or to your preferred doneness.
- Prepare the Rice: While the egg cooks, place the warm rice in a serving bowl. Drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil over the rice and mix gently.
- Assemble the Dish: Top the rice with the fried egg. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, sliced green onion, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Serve: Serve immediately, mixing the egg into the rice before eating. Add roasted seaweed or kimchi on the side if desired.
Notes
- For a heartier version, add cooked spam, bacon, or sautéed vegetables.
- Gyeran Bap is extremely customizable and perfect for quick, comforting meals.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
