If you’re looking for a dish that’s unbelievably simple yet packs a comforting punch, this Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine perfectly steamed rice topped with a silky, fried egg, kissed by nutty sesame oil, savory soy sauce, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds that bring the whole bowl to life. It’s the kind of humble meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out and comes together in just minutes, making it a go-to comfort food that anyone can master.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe relies on a handful of essential ingredients that each play a starring role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the creamy richness of the eggs to the deep umami of soy sauce, every element is simple but vital.
- 2 cups cooked white rice: Using short-grain or medium-grain rice ensures the perfect sticky texture that holds everything together beautifully.
- 2 large eggs: The star protein that brings silkiness and satisfying richness to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a distinct, aromatic nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile instantly.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: Provides a salty, umami depth that complements the egg and rice perfectly; adjust to your taste.
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional): Adds creaminess and a subtle richness if you want to indulge your taste buds a little more.
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds: For a toasty crunch and nutty flavor that finishes off the dish beautifully.
- 1 green onion, finely chopped: Adds freshness, color, and a mild oniony bite for balance.
- Nori strips (optional): These seaweed strips add a pleasant chewy texture and a hint of oceanic flavor, perfect as a garnish.
How to Make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by dividing your cooked rice into two warm serving bowls. Keeping the rice warm at this point helps the flavors meld beautifully as you add the egg and toppings.
Step 2: Fry the Eggs
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Crack the eggs directly into the pan and fry them until the egg whites are fully set. You can cook the yolks to your liking, but sunny-side up is traditional and delivers that luscious, flowing richness that makes this dish unforgettable.
Step 3: Assemble the Bowl
Place one fried egg on top of each bowl of rice, creating a gorgeous and inviting centerpiece.
Step 4: Add Soy Sauce and Butter
Drizzle soy sauce over the rice and egg—adjust the amount to suit your personal preference. If you’re craving extra creaminess, drop a small pat of butter into each bowl now, letting it melt into the warm rice and mingle with the yolk.
Step 5: Sprinkle Toppings
Finish each bowl with a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds and finely chopped green onions for texture and brightness. If using, add some nori strips for an extra layer of flavor and a delightful chew.
Step 6: Mix and Enjoy
Before digging in, mix the egg, soy sauce, and rice together well. This allows the creamy yolk and savory sauce to coat each grain, bringing all the flavors into a harmonious, mouthwatering bite.
How to Serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your bowl with fresh garnishes like crisp green onions and toasted sesame seeds, which add wonderful aroma and flavor contrasts. Nori strips give a slightly briny crunch that pairs beautifully with the dish’s comforting elements.
Side Dishes
This Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe shines brightest when paired with simple Korean side dishes like kimchi, pickled radish, or seasoned spinach. The tangy, spicy, or savory notes from these sides create a balanced meal full of vibrant tastes and textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve Gyeran Bap in cute ramekins or mini stone bowls to keep everything warm longer. You can also try topping your egg rice with an extra drizzle of gochujang (Korean chili paste) or a sprinkle of furikake for extra umami and a hint of spice.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days. The egg is best eaten fresh, but the rice can easily be reheated for a quick snack.
Freezing
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so freezing is not generally recommended for Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe. The texture of the egg and rice can suffer from freezing and thawing.
Reheating
When reheating leftovers, remove the egg if possible and warm the rice separately in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water to revive its softness. You can fry a fresh egg to top the warmed rice before serving to recreate that fresh experience.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! While white short-grain rice is traditional for its sticky texture, brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just note the texture will be a bit different but still delicious.
What if I don’t have sesame oil? What can I use instead?
If you don’t have sesame oil, a neutral oil like vegetable or canola can work, though you’ll miss out on the signature nutty aroma. Adding a small drizzle of toasted sesame seeds will help compensate for the flavor.
How runny should the egg yolk be in Gyeran Bap?
The most traditional style is a sunny-side-up egg with a runny yolk, which acts like a rich sauce when mixed into the rice. However, cook the yolk to your preference—all ways taste wonderful!
Can I add other toppings to this dish?
Yes! Gyeran Bap is super versatile—you can add kimchi, sliced avocado, chopped kimchi cucumbers, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes to customize it your way.
Is this dish suitable for breakfast only?
Not at all! Gyeran Bap makes a fantastic breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Its simplicity and satisfaction level mean you can enjoy it any time you want a quick and comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe enough if you’re craving something that’s quick, nourishing, and endlessly satisfying. It’s proof that the best meals often come from the simplest ingredients and a little loving attention. So go ahead and give this little bowl of happiness a try—you’ll be amazed at how such a humble dish can become your new favorite comfort food.
Print
Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Halal
Description
Gyeran Bap, or Korean Egg Rice, is a simple and comforting dish featuring fluffy short-grain rice topped with a perfectly fried egg, drizzled with savory soy sauce and fragrant sesame oil. Enhanced with buttery richness and garnished with toasted sesame seeds, green onions, and optional nori strips, this quick meal combines familiar flavors into a satisfying breakfast or anytime dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably short-grain or medium-grain rice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon butter (optional, for added richness)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- Nori (seaweed) strips, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Divide the cooked rice evenly into two serving bowls and keep it warm to ensure the dish is served hot and comforting.
- Fry the eggs: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add sesame oil. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are fully set and the yolks reach your preferred doneness; traditionally, sunny-side up is used for a runny yolk.
- Assemble the bowls: Place one fried egg on top of each bowl of warm rice carefully to retain the yolk’s texture.
- Add flavor: Drizzle each bowl with soy sauce, adjusting the amount according to taste. Add a small pat of butter on top of the rice and egg if you desire a richer flavor experience.
- Garnish: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions evenly over the bowls for added texture and aroma. Optionally, garnish with nori strips for a slight crunch and umami boost.
- Mix and serve: Before eating, mix the egg, soy sauce, and rice thoroughly to blend the flavors and enjoy the creamy, savory combination fully.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked warm rice for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust soy sauce amount to your salt preference.
- Butter is optional but adds a pleasant richness.
- For a runnier yolk, fry the egg sunny-side up without flipping.
- Nori strips add an authentic Korean flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Can be customized by adding kimchi or other pickled vegetables as a side.
