Classic Kimbap Recipe: Perfect for a Quick and Simple Lunch

Liputan6.com, Jakarta If you love Korean food, learning a simple kimbap recipe is a great idea. This delicious dish is not only tasty but also fun to make at home. Many people enjoy kimbap for lunch, a picnic, or even as a quick snack. The best part about a kimbap recipe is that you can change the fillings to match your taste.

A kimbap recipe usually starts with rice and seaweed sheets, rolled together with different ingredients inside. Kimbap comes from Korea and is sometimes compared to sushi, but it is different in flavor and style. It often includes cooked meat, vegetables, and sometimes eggs, making it a complete and healthy meal in one roll.

In this article, we will share our easy Korean kimbap recipe and tips that you can try at home. This recipe is perfect if you want something simple and quick to make for breakfast, lunch, or a snack. You will also find some tasty filling ideas that you can put in your kimbap. We gathered the recipe and tips from various sources, Friday (26/9/2025).

This classic kimbap recipe uses rice, vegetables, and a bit of protein. The key is to prepare each ingredient properly before rolling.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups short-grain rice

- 2 1/2 cups water

- 1 tablespoon sesame oil

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 5 sheets roasted seaweed (nori)

- 1 medium carrot, julienned

- 1 cucumber, julienned

- 5 strips pickled radish (danmuji)

- 3 eggs, beaten

- 150g beef or chicken, sliced thin and cooked with soy sauce

- 1 tablespoon cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Wash the rice well until the water runs clear. Cook it with 2 1/2 cups of water. When done, let it rest for 10 minutes.

2. Mix the rice with sesame oil and salt. This makes the rice flavorful and easier to spread.

3. In a small pan, add cooking oil and fry the beaten eggs into a thin omelet. Slice it into long strips once cooled.

4. Stir-fry the carrot lightly in the same pan until just softened. Keep the cucumber raw for crunch.

5. Place one seaweed sheet on a bamboo mat, shiny side down. Spread a thin layer of rice over two-thirds of the sheet.

6. Lay the carrot, cucumber, egg strips, pickled radish, and cooked meat in a line across the rice.

7. Use the bamboo mat to roll the kimbap tightly from the bottom. Press gently but firmly to keep it together.

8. Slice the roll into bite-sized pieces with a sharp knife. To prevent sticking, wipe the knife with a little oil.

Now you have a complete kimbap recipe that is both colorful and tasty. It is perfect for sharing with family or friends.

Making kimbap can be easier if you know a few tricks. These tips will help you roll better and enjoy the process.

1. Use freshly cooked rice – Always use rice that is freshly cooked and still warm. It spreads more easily on the seaweed, holds ingredients together well, and makes the roll firm without falling apart.

2. Do not overfill – Be careful not to add too many fillings. Overstuffing makes rolling difficult, can tear the seaweed, and prevents the roll from sealing properly. Balance is important for a neat result.

3. Keep your hands wet – Lightly wetting your fingers with water or a little oil prevents the rice from sticking. This makes spreading rice easier, keeps the roll smooth, and helps you work more quickly.

4. Tight rolling is key – When rolling with the bamboo mat, apply steady, gentle pressure. This keeps the fillings in place, prevents gaps, and creates a compact, even roll that slices beautifully.

5. Cut with a sharp knife – Always use a sharp, lightly oiled knife. A dull blade squashes the roll and ruins its shape, while a sharp knife makes clean, neat slices every time.

6. Wrap in plastic – If storing kimbap for later, wrap the rolls tightly in plastic. This prevents them from drying out, keeps the rice soft, and helps maintain the overall freshness of the dish.

7. Use sesame oil for flavor – Brushing the finished roll lightly with sesame oil before cutting adds a fragrant aroma, prevents dryness, and enhances the final taste with a nutty finish.

One fun part of making a kimbap recipe is experimenting with fillings. You can mix and match based on your mood or what you have in the fridge. Here are some tasty options:

1. Tuna mayo – Mix canned tuna with mayonnaise for a creamy and rich flavor.

2. Kimchi – Add chopped kimchi for a spicy and tangy twist.

3. Crab sticks – Use imitation crab meat for a sweet and savory filling.

4. Shrimp tempura – Crispy shrimp makes the roll extra special.

5. Cheese and ham – A simple but delicious combination that kids often love.

6. Spicy pork – Cook thin pork slices with chili paste for a bold, flavorful option.

7. Avocado – Soft avocado adds creaminess and balances salty ingredients.

8. Sweet potato – Roasted sweet potato gives a naturally sweet and hearty taste.

9. Spinach – Lightly blanched spinach adds color and nutrition.

10. Chicken teriyaki – Tender chicken with sweet teriyaki sauce makes a satisfying filling.

With so many choices, a kimbap recipe can always feel new and exciting. Try different mixes until you find your favorite version.