If you’ve ever craved a warm, comforting dish that combines simplicity and soul in one bowl, then you absolutely must try the Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe. This delightful Korean classic is all about fluffy steamed rice topped with a perfectly cooked egg and kissed by the rich flavors of sesame oil and soy sauce. It’s endlessly satisfying, quick to make, and totally customizable to your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast or a light, tasty dinner, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up on busy days or when you need a little culinary hug.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something essential to the table, whether it’s the creaminess of butter or the nutty aroma of sesame oil. Here’s what you’ll gather before heading to your stove:
- 1 cup cooked short-grain white rice (hot): The fluffy base that soaks up every drop of flavor with each bite.
- 1 large egg: The star ingredient, providing richness and that luscious, runny yolk contrast.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a fragrant, nutty depth that instantly elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce: Brings a touch of salty umami, balancing the mild flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter: For frying the egg and infusing it with subtle creaminess.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances the overall taste and brightens the flavors.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle hint of warmth and spice.
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish): Provide a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
- Chopped green onions (optional for garnish): Bring a fresh, slightly sharp note that contrasts the rich egg.
- Roasted seaweed (optional for serving): A classic Korean touch that adds texture and umami.
How to Make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Egg
Heat your skillet over medium and melt the butter gently. Crack in the egg and cook it just the way you love it—while sunny-side up is traditional, feel free to go for over-easy or even a softly scrambled egg if you prefer. The goal is to get the yolk luscious enough to mingle with the rice later, creating that perfect creamy texture.
Step 2: Seasoning the Rice
While the egg is doing its magic, take your hot cooked rice and transfer it to a serving bowl. Drizzle the sesame oil and soy sauce across the rice evenly. Then, with a gentle hand, mix it just enough to coat every grain without mashing it. This step is where the rice takes on the signature savory and nutty flavors that define the dish.
Step 3: Bringing It All Together
Once your egg is cooked, place it delicately right on top of the seasoned rice. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper over everything, followed by a scattering of toasted sesame seeds and some chopped green onions if you’re using them. Serve immediately, with roasted seaweed on the side if you want that extra layer of flavor and texture.
How to Serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishes really add personality to this humble bowl. Toasted sesame seeds lend a toasty crunch, while chopped green onions offer a hint of freshness and color. Some folks love throwing a bit of gochujang on top for a spicy kick or adding a scoop of kimchi on the side for tangy contrast. Roasted seaweed sheets are classic accompaniments that bring a savory sea flavor and a fun way to scoop bites.
Side Dishes
This simple yet satisfying bowl pairs wonderfully with light Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, or steamed veggies. Because Gyeran Bap is so quick to make, you can easily round out your meal with a few small banchan for a balanced and exciting eating experience. Even just a quick miso soup or a crisp salad can make it feel like a proper feast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress your friends or family, try serving the Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe in individual stone bowls that keep the rice warm longer. Drizzling a touch of chili oil or sesame seeds in an artistic swirl adds visual appeal. Or, for a playful take, wrap portions in roasted seaweed sheets for bite-sized hand rolls. The versatility of this dish means you can make it your own each time you cook it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, store the rice and egg separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Keeping the rice warm and fresh is key, so refrigerate promptly to maintain quality. The egg is best eaten fresh but can be gently reheated if needed.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn’t recommended, especially because eggs and rice don’t always thaw well together. If you want to prepare ahead, freeze just the cooked rice in portioned containers. When you’re ready, reheat the rice and quickly fry a fresh egg to assemble your Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe at any time.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to keep moisture in. Heat in short intervals until warm but not dry. Then, prepare a fresh egg to top it off; it’s worth the few extra minutes to enjoy that perfect yolk!
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, making the dish heartier, though the texture will be a bit different from the traditional short-grain white rice.
Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe?
For a vegetarian version, this recipe is already perfect as it contains no meat. For vegan, simply replace the egg with a tofu scramble or a seasoned chickpea flour pancake to mimic the egg texture.
What type of soy sauce works best?
A light soy sauce is best for this recipe because it adds umami without overpowering the delicate flavors of the egg and rice, but feel free to use your favorite soy sauce variety for a personalized touch.
Can I make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to select a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep this delicious bowl gluten-friendly.
How do I make the egg yolk runny like in Korean restaurants?
Cook the egg on medium-low heat and avoid flipping it, letting the whites set while the yolk remains soft and custardy. Covering the pan lightly can also help cook the whites through without firming the yolk.
Final Thoughts
This Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe is a wonderful little bowl that brings warmth and comfort in just minutes. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when treated with care and a bit of love, can become something truly special. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do, and that it finds a cozy spot in your regular recipe rotation for quick, soulful meals.
Print
Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course, Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gyeran Bap, or Korean Egg Rice, is a simple and comforting dish featuring a perfectly fried egg served over hot, savory rice seasoned with sesame oil and soy sauce. This quick and easy meal is traditionally enjoyed for breakfast or as a light dinner, offering a delicious balance of flavors and textures with optional garnishes like toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and roasted seaweed.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked short-grain white rice (hot)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- Pinch of salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped green onions (optional for garnish)
- Roasted seaweed (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat to prepare for frying the egg.
- Melt the butter: Add the unsalted butter to the skillet and allow it to melt completely, coating the surface for a rich flavor.
- Fry the egg: Crack the large egg into the skillet and cook it to your preferred doneness, traditionally sunny-side up, ensuring the yolk remains runny.
- Prepare the rice: While the egg is cooking, place the hot cooked short-grain rice into a serving bowl.
- Season the rice: Drizzle the sesame oil and soy sauce over the rice and gently mix to evenly distribute the flavors without mashing the rice.
- Assemble the dish: Once the egg is cooked, carefully place it on top of the seasoned rice.
- Add finishing touches: Sprinkle a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, toasted sesame seeds, and chopped green onions if using, for added flavor and texture.
- Serve: Serve immediately with optional roasted seaweed on the side to complement the dish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a dash of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or serve alongside kimchi.
- This dish is highly customizable; try using a poached or scrambled egg instead of fried.
- Ideal for a quick and comforting breakfast or light dinner any day.
