Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) – A Simple & Comforting Meal

Gyeran Bap (계란밥) is a quick, comforting, and delicious Korean dish made with steamed rice, fried or scrambled eggs, and flavorful seasonings like soy sauce and sesame oil. This dish is simple yet satisfying, making it a perfect lazy-day meal, budget-friendly dish, or late-night snack.

In Korea, Gyeran Bap is often considered a childhood comfort food—a meal that’s easy to make when you’re hungry and want something warm, hearty, and flavorful. It’s also highly customizable, allowing you to add toppings like seaweed, green onions, kimchi, or even cheese.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious and easy Korean egg rice in just 10 minutes!

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Ingredients for Gyeran Bap

This dish requires just a few pantry staples, making it one of the easiest meals you can whip up.

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 bowl (1 cup) cooked rice (steamed white or brown rice)
• 1 egg (fried, scrambled, or soft-boiled)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds a nutty aroma and richness)
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped green onions (adds freshness and color)
• Crushed roasted seaweed (gim) (adds umami and crunch)
• Kimchi (for a spicy, tangy contrast)
• Chili flakes or gochugaru (for extra heat)
• Shredded cheese (melts beautifully into the rice)
• Spam, ham, or tuna (for added protein)

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How to Make Gyeran Bap

Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. If you don’t already have steamed rice, cook 1 cup of rice according to the package instructions. Freshly cooked rice is best, but leftover rice also works well.

Step 2: Prepare the Egg

You can cook the egg in different ways depending on your preference:

• Sunny-side up: Fry the egg in a little sesame oil until the edges are crispy but the yolk remains runny.
• Scrambled: Lightly beat the egg and cook it until soft and fluffy.
• Soft-boiled: Cook the egg for 6-7 minutes, then peel and place it on top of the rice.

Step 3: Assemble the Gyeran Bap

1. Place the warm rice in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing slightly to coat the rice evenly.
3. Top with the cooked egg. If using a sunny-side-up egg, break the yolk slightly so it mixes into the rice.
4. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and optional toppings, like chopped green onions, seaweed, or kimchi.

Step 4: Mix & Enjoy!

Gently mix everything together before eating to distribute the flavors evenly. The soy sauce, sesame oil, and egg yolk combine to create a rich, savory coating on the rice, making each bite incredibly satisfying.

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Why You’ll Love Gyeran Bap

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes, perfect for a busy day or late-night snack.
✔ Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
✔ Comforting & Satisfying – Warm rice, a runny egg, and nutty sesame oil make for a cozy and delicious meal.
✔ Great for Leftovers – Works well with leftover rice or pantry staples.

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Tips for the Best Gyeran Bap

✅ Use Freshly Cooked Rice – Warm, fluffy rice absorbs the flavors best. If using leftover rice, reheat it with a splash of water.
✅ Don’t Overdo the Soy Sauce – A little goes a long way! You can always add more if needed.
✅ Cook the Egg to Your Preference – A runny yolk adds richness, while scrambled eggs create a fluffier texture.
✅ Add a Protein Boost – Try adding Spam, ham, tofu, or tuna for extra protein.
✅ Pair It with Kimchi – The tangy, spicy crunch of kimchi perfectly balances the creamy, nutty flavors of Gyeran Bap.

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Variations & Substitutions

🍳 Spicy Gyeran Bap – Add gochujang (Korean chili paste) or sriracha for extra heat.
🧀 Cheesy Gyeran Bap – Mix in grated cheese and let it melt into the warm rice.
🥬 Veggie-Packed – Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or carrots for extra nutrition.
🐟 Seafood Twist – Top with flaked tuna, shrimp, or smoked salmon for a more indulgent version.
🌱 Vegan Version – Use a vegan egg substitute and tamari instead of soy sauce.

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FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works great for a healthier, high-fiber option. Just make sure it’s warm and soft before mixing.

2. What’s the best egg style for Gyeran Bap?

A runny yolk (sunny-side-up or soft-boiled) creates a rich, creamy sauce when mixed with the rice, but scrambled eggs work well too.

3. Can I make Gyeran Bap ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice and toppings ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the egg fresh for the best texture.

4. Can I make Gyeran Bap without soy sauce?

Yes! You can use tamari (gluten-free), coconut aminos, or a pinch of salt as a substitute.

5. What protein can I add to Gyeran Bap?

Great protein additions include Spam, ham, tofu, tuna, or shredded chicken.

6. Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s simple, mild, and easy to eat. You can reduce the soy sauce or skip the sesame oil for younger kids.

7. Can I eat Gyeran Bap for dinner?

Yes! While it’s a classic breakfast or snack, it works well as a light, quick dinner too.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store any extra rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave before serving.

9. What kind of seaweed should I use?

Korean roasted seaweed (gim) is best—it’s crispy, slightly salty, and full of umami flavor.

10. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! Add gochujang, sriracha, red pepper flakes, or kimchi for a spicy kick.