KIMCHI FRIED RICE (LIGHT)
This light kimchi fried rice (light) reinvents a classic comfort dish by substituting white rice for fibre-rich brown rice and using minimal oil. The tangy chopped kimchi infuses every grain with spicy sour depth, while a softly fried egg adds protein and creaminess. A drizzle of fragrant sesame oil brings subtle nuttiness, and chopped spring onion provides fresh and oniony brightness. The fried rice is ready in under ten minutes from fridge to plate, which makes it an ideal quick lunch or light dinner. Moreover, it has balanced macros, complex carbohydrates, lean protein and beneficial probiotics which support sustained energy and gut health. Whether enjoyed piping hot or at room temperature, this unfussy kimchi fried rice satisfies cravings without weighing you down.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Lunch
SERVING SIZE
1
CUISINE
Korean
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Stir‑Fry
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Weeknight, Quick Meals, Picnic
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Low Fat, Healthy, High Fibre, Quick & Easy, Vegetarian (omit egg for vegan), Wheat / Gluten‑Free (use gluten-free tamari if adding extra soy)
DISH TYPE
Casserole / Gratin
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup cooked brown rice (preferably day‑old)
- ¼ cup chopped kimchi, drained
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon spring onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Energy 310 kcal
- Protein 9 g
- Carbohydrate 45 g
- Fat 10 g
- Saturated fat 2 g
- Fibre 4 g
- Sugar 2 g
- Sodium 420 mg
PREPARATION
- Heat The Pan: Place a non-stick frying pan or wok over medium heat. Allow it to warm for 1 minute.
- Fry The Egg: Add a light spray of oil or a teaspoon of water. Crack in the egg and cook to your preference, sunny‑side up for a runny yolk or fully set. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Stir‑Fry The Rice: Increase the heat to medium flame. Add ½ cup of cold, cooked brown rice. Stir and break up any clumps, ensuring each grain warms through.
- Incorporate The Kimchi: Add ¼ cup of drained, chopped kimchi. Stir continuously for 1 to 2 minutes so the kimchi softens and the rice absorbs its tangy juices.
- Season With Oil: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil evenly over the rice. Toss to distribute the nutty aroma and sheen.
- Add Spring Onion: Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped spring onion for freshness and colour.
- Plate And Top: Transfer the fried rice to a serving bowl. Nestle the cooked egg on top.
- Final Touch: Sprinkle a little extra spring onion or sesame seeds if desired, then serve immediately.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
5 minutes
TIPS
- Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice yields the best texture and it fries without becoming mushy.
- Drain Kimchi Well: Pat kimchi with kitchen paper to remove excess brine and prevent sogginess.
- Hot Pan, Quick Toss: Ensure the pan is hot before adding ingredients to achieve slight charring and depth.
- Egg Variations: For extra richness, scramble the egg into the rice rather than frying it separately.
- Small Batches: Cook a single serving to keep everything sizzling and avoid steaming the rice.
- Taste Before Serving: If the kimchi is very salty, add a squeeze of lemon or a splash of water to balance.
VARIATIONS
- Protein Add‑In: Stir in 2 tablespoons of cooked tofu cubes or tempeh for extra plant protein.
- Vegetable Boost: Fold through a handful of peas, diced carrot or baby spinach at step 4.
- Spicy Upgrade: Add a teaspoon of gochujang or chilli flakes when stir-frying the rice.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts before serving.
- Sauce Swap: Use a drizzle of gluten-free tamari or light soy sauce if more seasoning is needed.
- Herb Twist: Garnish with fresh cilantro or basil instead of spring onion for a different aroma.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Fridge: Store leftover rice and kimchi mixture separately in airtight containers for up to two days. Reheat in a hot pan, then add egg and spring onion just before serving.
- Freezer: Not recommended; freezing alters rice texture. Instead, prepare rice ahead and freeze in portions, then defrost overnight in the fridge.