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Kimbap (Korean Seaweed Rice Rolls)

Fresh and flavorful Korean rice rolls filled with colorful vegetables, eggs, and savory fillings. A perfect homemade snack or light meal.

Ingredients

3 eggs
1 cucumber
3 carrots
1 pickled yellow radish (danmuji/takuan)
1 can Spam (or lunch meat)
2 cups short-grain white rice, cooked
4 sheets seaweed (gim/nori)
Optional: sesame oil, sesame seeds

Instructions

Prepare the egg:
Beat eggs and cook in a lightly greased pan until set. Slice into thin strips.
Prep vegetables & meat:
Cut cucumber, carrots, pickled radish, and Spam into thin strips. Remove cucumber seeds if desired.
Cook carrots & Spam:
Toss carrots with 1 tablespoon salt and let sit for 15 minutes. Squeeze out excess liquid and sauté for about 4 minutes.
In the same pan, fry Spam for about 1 minute per side until golden brown.
Prepare rice:
Lightly season cooked rice with sesame oil and a pinch of salt (optional).
Assemble kimbap:
Place a sheet of seaweed on a bamboo mat. Spread a thin layer of rice evenly, leaving about 1 inch (2 cm) at the top edge.
Add fillings:
Arrange egg, vegetables, radish, and Spam in rows across the center.
Roll:
Lift the mat and roll tightly, pressing firmly as you go. Seal the edge with a few grains of rice if needed.
Finish & serve:
Brush with sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve.

Notes

Use short-grain rice for the best sticky texture.
Wet your hands when handling rice to prevent sticking.
Substitute Spam with tuna, beef, or tofu for variation.
Best eaten fresh but can be stored short-term in the fridge.