Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) is the heartwarming, lightning-quick meal that anyone can fall in love with: fluffy, steaming hot rice topped with a perfectly cooked egg, savory soy sauce, nutty sesame oil, and a pat of melting butter. Every spoonful is pure comfort, but what makes it truly special is how effortlessly it comes together and how each bite feels like a cozy hug from home. With its softly-set yolk running into warm rice and hits of crisp green onion, it’s easy to see why so many Koreans turn to this dish when craving something both simple and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) irresistible is how a handful of humble ingredients transform into a dish with layers of flavor and heat. Each component is chosen for a reason: color, taste, aroma, and that signature Korean homey feel.
- Cooked short-grain white rice (1 cup, hot): Provides the perfect fluffy, sticky base to hold the egg and absorb sauces.
- Large egg: Delivers richness and protein; the yolk becomes a luscious sauce when mixed in.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Adds a toasty nuttiness that’s absolutely essential to the dish.
- Soy sauce (1 teaspoon): Brings umami depth and a hint of saltiness, making every mouthful addictive.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 tablespoon): Melts over the hot rice and mingles with the yolk for pure silkiness.
- Pinch of salt: Perfect for rounding out flavors and seasoning the egg just right.
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste: Adds a gentle heat and a lovely aroma.
- Toasted sesame seeds (for garnish): Offer crunch and an extra layer of nuttiness on top.
- Chopped green onions (optional for garnish): Bring pops of color and a fresh, mildly sharp bite.
- Roasted seaweed (optional for serving): Adds crunch and a subtle oceanic essence that pairs beautifully with egg and rice.
How to Make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice)
Step 1: Prepare Your Rice
Start by ensuring you have a bowl of hot, freshly cooked short-grain rice. The warmth and stickiness of this rice are what make Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) so wonderfully comforting. If you’re using leftover rice, simply reheat it until piping hot so it can easily melt the butter later.
Step 2: Fry Your Egg
Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium flame and add the unsalted butter. Let it sizzle and melt, filling your kitchen with irresistible aroma. Crack in your egg, being careful to keep the yolk intact if you love it runny. Let it fry until the white is set but the yolk is still golden and soft—sunny-side up is the classic, but cook it how you love best.
Step 3: Season the Rice
While the egg is cooking, place your hot rice into your serving bowl. Drizzle the teaspoon of sesame oil and a teaspoon of soy sauce over the top. Use a spoon or chopsticks to gently mix until every grain shimmers and soaks up those savory, toasty flavors. This step infuses your base with so much flavor even before the egg joins the party.
Step 4: Top and Finish
Once your egg is ready, carefully lift it and place it right on top of the seasoned rice. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and as much black pepper as you like over everything. Shower the bowl with toasted sesame seeds and, if you like, add a handful of thinly sliced green onions. The goal: layers of flavor and a bowl that looks as good as it tastes.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Serve your Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) right away, with roasted seaweed sheets on the side for scooping or wrapping little bites. The heat of the rice will melt the butter and, when you break the yolk, it turns into a rich, golden sauce. Every bite hits all the marks for comfort and satisfaction in less than 10 minutes!
How to Serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice)
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds and a scattering of chopped green onions take the presentation to the next level and add extra texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dash of gochujang or a spoonful of kimchi delivers extra zing without much effort. These garnishes give your bowl restaurant-worthy flair in seconds.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) with traditional Korean sides—think kimchi, pickled radish, or a bowl of miso soup—turns this quick comfort food into a full, satisfying meal. Even a simple cucumber salad or a few banchan (little side dishes) make breakfast or dinner feel just a little more special.
Creative Ways to Present
To really wow someone, serve Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) in a pretty ceramic bowl with the egg carefully centered and garnishes arranged in neat little piles. For a fun twist, use cute rice molds or layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a take-to-work lunch you’ll actually look forward to. And don’t forget the seaweed or even a nori sheet used as a wrap for each bite!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice), transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day. Be aware that the rice and egg are best when freshly made, but leftovers still make a quick and tasty snack.
Freezing
While fresh is definitely best, you can freeze the rice portion by itself for up to a month. It’s best not to freeze the egg, as the texture will suffer. When ready to enjoy, just fry a fresh egg to top your reheated rice.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and microwave it covered until steaming hot. Add a dab more sesame oil or a touch of butter if the rice seems dry. Then top with a freshly prepared egg and your favorite garnishes for a meal that tastes as good as new.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! While short-grain white rice gives Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) its classic chewy texture, nutty brown rice brings its own wholesome twist and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Definitely—just swap out the egg and butter for your favorite plant-based alternatives. Tofu scramble or a vegan egg replacer works well, and a bit more sesame oil ensures you won’t miss out on rich flavor.
What other toppings go well with Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice)?
So many possibilities! Try sliced avocado, sautéed mushrooms, shredded cheese, or even a spoonful of chili crisp. This dish is a canvas for whatever makes your taste buds happy.
Can I double or triple the recipe for meal prep?
Of course! Just cook multiple eggs at once in a larger skillet and prep more bowls of seasoned rice. It’s a fantastic option for a quick family breakfast or lazy Sunday brunch.
Why does the butter make such a difference?
The pat of butter melts right into the hot rice, making everything creamy, aromatic, and impossibly comforting. It’s that extra touch that takes Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) from good to truly unforgettable.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) yet, you’re in for a treat that’s both effortless and deeply satisfying. Next time you need a quick breakfast or a soul-warming snack, give this recipe a shot—you might just discover your new favorite bowl!
Print
Gyeran Bap (Korean Egg Rice) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Category: Main Course, Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Korean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Gyeran Bap, also known as Korean Egg Rice, is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines hot cooked rice with a fried egg, sesame oil, soy sauce, and seasonings. Topped with sesame seeds and green onions, it’s a popular Korean comfort food perfect for breakfast or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup cooked short-grain white rice (hot)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- pinch of salt
- freshly ground black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- toasted sesame seeds
- chopped green onions (optional)
- roasted seaweed (optional for serving)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: Heat a small nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the Egg: Add butter to the skillet, crack in the egg, and fry to your preferred doneness.
- Prepare the Rice: Place hot cooked rice in a serving bowl, drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce, and mix gently.
- Assemble: Place the fried egg on top of the rice. Season with salt, black pepper, sesame seeds, and green onions if desired.
- Serve: Serve immediately, optionally with roasted seaweed on the side.
Notes
- Enhance the flavor with gochujang or kimchi.
- Customize with a poached or scrambled egg.
- Perfect for a quick, comforting meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
