Gyeran Bap, or Korean Egg Rice, is a simple yet comforting dish that’s perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and easy to whip up in no time. This dish consists of steamed rice topped with a fried egg, served with a few delicious extras like sesame oil, soy sauce, and kimchi for that perfect balance of flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a cold day, yet it’s light enough to make whenever you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Simple: Gyeran Bap comes together in just a few minutes with minimal effort. It’s the ideal choice for busy days when you want something filling and flavorful, without having to spend too much time in the kitchen.
Customizable: While the base of this dish is simple, the toppings and seasonings can easily be adjusted to your liking. Add your favorite veggies, spices, or even a little extra protein to make it your own.
Comforting: There’s something so satisfying about a warm bowl of rice topped with a perfectly fried egg. The combination of the runny yolk and the savory seasonings makes every bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need for your Gyeran Bap, and no, you don’t need a ton of ingredients for this dish:

Rice: Steamed white rice is the base of this dish, but feel free to use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
Egg: A fresh egg is fried sunny-side up and placed right on top of the rice. The runny yolk is what really brings this dish together, so don’t skip it!
Sesame oil: Adds a nutty, savory flavor to the dish. A drizzle over the rice enhances the richness and depth of the meal.
Soy sauce: A dash of soy sauce brings a salty, umami punch that makes the rice even more delicious.
Kimchi: Though optional, kimchi adds a tangy, spicy kick that perfectly complements the mild flavors of the rice and egg. If you’re not a fan of kimchi, you can skip it, but it really adds that signature Korean flavor.
Green onions: Fresh chopped green onions add a pop of color and a mild, savory flavor.
Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds can be sprinkled on top for a bit of crunch and added flavor.

Variations

Gyeran Bap is incredibly versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. Here are a few variations to consider:

Add Vegetables: Try adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the rice for a boost of nutrition and extra flavor.
Spicy Kick: Spice things up with some gochujang (Korean chili paste) mixed into the rice or added as a topping.
Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, add some shredded chicken, beef, or even tofu on top of the rice along with the egg.
Different Rice: Swap out the white rice for brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option.

How to Make Gyeran Bap

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking your rice. If you’re using leftover rice, this is an ideal dish to repurpose it. Just make sure the rice is warm before you start assembling.

Step 2: Fry the Egg

Heat a little oil or butter in a pan over medium heat. Once hot, crack an egg into the pan and fry it sunny-side up, or until the yolk reaches your desired level of doneness. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Scoop the warm rice into a bowl. Drizzle sesame oil over the top, followed by a splash of soy sauce. Place the fried egg on top, and finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions. For an added layer of flavor, you can include a side of kimchi.

Step 4: Enjoy!

Mix everything together before you dig in. The runny egg yolk combines with the rice and seasonings, creating a creamy, savory dish that’s incredibly satisfying.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Fresh Rice: Freshly steamed rice works best for Gyeran Bap as it holds the seasoning well and creates that perfect warm base. If you’re using leftover rice, make sure to reheat it so it’s warm and fluffy.
Don’t Overcook the Egg: For that perfect Gyeran Bap experience, aim for a runny yolk. If you prefer your egg cooked more, feel free to adjust to your liking.
Customize the Seasoning: You can adjust the amount of sesame oil and soy sauce to suit your taste. For a richer flavor, add a little more sesame oil, or go easy on the soy sauce if you prefer a milder taste.
Add Garnishes: For extra flair, top with a sprinkle of crushed seaweed or a dash of chili flakes for a little heat.

How to Serve

Gyeran Bap is best served as a standalone meal, perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch, or dinner. However, it pairs beautifully with:

Kimchi: The tangy, spicy flavor of kimchi cuts through the richness of the egg and rice.
Soup: Serve with a simple miso soup or a light broth-based soup for a more filling meal.
Grilled Meats: For extra protein, serve alongside grilled chicken, pork, or beef skewers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the rice and egg, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat.

Freezing

Gyeran Bap doesn’t freeze very well due to the egg, but the rice and any toppings like kimchi can be frozen separately. To enjoy, thaw the rice and heat before adding a fresh egg.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat the rice and egg in a skillet. If the egg yolk is no longer runny, you can always break it up and mix it into the rice for extra creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Gyeran Bap with brown rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor to the dish, making it a great option if you’re looking for a healthier version.

Can I use a scrambled egg instead of a fried egg?
Yes, if you prefer scrambled eggs, go ahead! The dish is just as delicious with scrambled eggs, but the fried egg gives it that signature creamy yolk.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you’re out of sesame oil, you can substitute it with a bit of olive oil or vegetable oil. However, sesame oil is key for that distinct flavor, so if you can get your hands on it, it’s worth the investment.

Can I add other proteins like chicken or beef?
Definitely! If you want to make your Gyeran Bap a more substantial meal, adding grilled chicken, beef, or tofu would be a great option.

Final Thoughts

Gyeran Bap is a wonderful, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create something incredibly flavorful and satisfying. It’s so quick to make, yet it feels like you’ve put in so much effort. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or just craving something cozy, this Korean Egg Rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious, savory goodness!

Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe