Bibimbap

why make this recipe

Bibimbap is a colorful and nutritious Korean dish that brings together a variety of flavors and textures. It’s a great way to enjoy rice, vegetables, and protein all in one bowl. This dish is perfect for those who love to mix and match their ingredients. It’s also customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies or proteins. Eating bibimbap is both delicious and fun!

how to make Bibimbap

Ingredients:

4 cups cooked white rice, preferably short grain (Note 1)
4 eggs
2 tsp sesame seeds
250 g/8oz beef tenderloin or thick steak, very finely sliced (subs, Note 2)
1/4 green apple, grated using a box grater (Note 3)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce, light or all-purpose (Note 4)
1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
2 tsp sesame oil, toasted (Note 9)
2 large carrots, cut into 5 x 0.5cm/2 x 1/5" batons
2 large zucchini, cut into 5 x 0.5cm/2 x 1/5" batons
1 bunch of spinach, cut into 5cm/2" lengths
8 large dried shiitake mushrooms (Note 5)
4 cups bean sprouts
2 tsp garlic, minced (3 cloves)
8 tsp vegetable oil, separated
1/2 tsp salt
1.5 tsp soy sauce, light or all-purpose (Note 4)
1/4 tsp fish sauce (sub soy)
1/4 tsp white sugar
Sesame oil, toasted (Note 9)
4 tbsp gochujang paste (Note 6)
2 tbsp mirin (Note 7)
2 tbsp rice vinegar (Note 8)
1.5 tsp soy sauce (Note 4)
3 tsp white sugar
1 garlic clove, finely grated
2.5 tsp sesame oil, toasted (Note 9)

Directions:

Bibimbap Sauce:

In a small bowl, mix gochujang paste, mirin, rice vinegar, soy sauce, white sugar, grated garlic, and sesame oil. Stir well and set aside.

Marinated Beef:

In another bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and sliced beef. Mix until the beef is well coated. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare Vegetables:

Prepare all your vegetables by cutting them into the specified sizes.
Grate the apple and set it aside.

Cook Vegetables:

In a pan, heat 2 tsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the carrots and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender, then remove them from the pan.
Repeat this process with the zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, and bean sprouts, using more oil as needed. Season with salt while cooking.

Assemble:

In a separate pan, cook the marinated beef until fully cooked.
In a large bowl, place a serving of cooked rice at the bottom.
Arrange the sautéed vegetables, cooked beef, and grated apple around the rice.
Place a fried egg on top and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Drizzle the bibimbap sauce over the top before serving.

how to serve Bibimbap

Bibimbap is best served warm. You can serve it in individual bowls, allowing everyone to mix their ingredients together. This creates a delightful and enjoyable dining experience. Each bite offers a mix of flavors from the meat, vegetables, and sauce.

how to store Bibimbap

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to separate the rice and toppings to keep everything fresh. It can be stored for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the rice and toppings in a microwave or in a pan on low heat until heated through.

tips to make Bibimbap

Use short-grain rice for the best texture.
Customize the vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand.
If you like it spicy, add more gochujang to the sauce.
Fry the egg sunny-side up for a runny yolk that mixes beautifully with the rice.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version of bibimbap by omitting the beef and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and other greens. You can also use tofu for protein instead of beef.

FAQs

1. Is bibimbap gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free soy sauce and gochujang, bibimbap can be gluten-free. Always check the labels.

2. Can I make bibimbap ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately and assemble them just before serving. This keeps everything fresh.

3. What if I don’t have gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, you can use a mixture of chili paste and a bit of brown sugar as a substitute.