Gochujang Fried Rice
Gochujang Fried Rice is a bold and flavorful Korean-inspired rice dish.Cold cooked rice is stir-fried with a spicy and savory gochujang sauce.Garlic and vegetables add freshness, texture, and aromatic flavor.Soy sauce and sesame oil create additional depth and richness.A fried egg makes the dish even more satisfying and delicious.This easy one-pan recipe is perfect for quick lunches and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
- 4 cups cold cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ½ red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 scallions, chopped
For the Gochujang Sauce
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons water
For Serving
- 4 fried eggs, optional
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- Extra sliced scallions
- Roasted seaweed strips, optional
Instructions
Prepare the Rice
- Use cold, cooked rice for the best texture.Day-old refrigerated rice works particularly well because it is firmer and less likely to become sticky while stir-frying.Break apart any large clumps before cooking.
Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the gochujang, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and water.Whisk until the mixture is smooth.Set the sauce aside.
Heat the Pan
- Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.Add the cooking oil and allow it to become hot.
Cook the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion and diced carrot.Stir-fry for approximately 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Add the Garlic
- Add the minced garlic.Cook for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.Avoid cooking it for too long because garlic can burn quickly.
Add the Remaining Vegetables
- Add the peas and diced red bell pepper.Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still colorful.
Add the Rice
- Add the cold cooked rice to the skillet.Break apart any remaining clumps with a spatula.Stir-fry the rice for approximately 2–3 minutes.
Add the Gochujang Sauce
- Pour the prepared gochujang sauce over the rice.Stir thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated with the vibrant red sauce.
Add the Scallions
- Add the chopped scallions.Reserve a small amount for garnishing.Stir everything together.
Prepare the Fried Eggs
- If using fried eggs, cook them separately according to your preferred style.A sunny-side-up egg with a soft yolk is especially delicious with this fried rice.
Serve the Fried Rice
- Divide the hot Gochujang Fried Rice among serving bowls.
Serve Immediately
- Serve the fried rice hot and enjoy while the flavors are fresh and vibrant.
Notes
- Cold rice: Day-old rice provides the best texture for fried rice.
- Gochujang: Different brands vary in spice level, sweetness, and saltiness.
- Heat level: Adjust the amount of gochujang according to your preference.
- Protein: Add chicken, beef, shrimp, eggs, or tofu to make the dish more filling.
- Vegetables: Use your favorite vegetables for an easy customized meal.
- Sesame oil: Add a small amount because its flavor is strong and aromatic.
- Salt: Taste before adding salt because soy sauce and gochujang are naturally salty.
- Serving: Gochujang Fried Rice tastes best when served immediately.