Crispy Stir-Fried Seaweed (Gim-Jaban)
Crispy Stir-Fried Seaweed (Gim-Jaban)
Revive Your Stale Seaweed! Simple Gim-Jaban Recipe
Got some old, soggy seaweed lying around? Turn it into a delicious side dish with this easy stir-fried seaweed (Gim-Jaban) recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a fantastic banchan that pairs perfectly with rice or even as a snack. Let’s give that neglected seaweed a new life!
Main Ingredients- Seaweed (roasted or regular)
- Cooking oil (e.g., canola, grapeseed)
- Sugar
- Salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare your seaweed. If you’re using roasted seaweed, you can crumble it slightly. If using regular seaweed sheets, you might want to lightly toast them first for better texture. Cut the seaweed into bite-sized pieces, about the length and width of your finger (approximately 3cm). Be careful not to cut them too thinly, as they might burn easily.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine the cut seaweed with the seasoning ingredients. The amount of seasoning will depend on how much seaweed you have. A good starting ratio is typically 1 part cooking oil, 1 part sugar, and a pinch of salt. For example, for about 5 sheets of seaweed, use 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil, 1-2 tablespoons of sugar, and a pinch of salt. Gently mix everything with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is evenly coated on the seaweed. You can adjust the sugar level for kids or add a bit more if you prefer it sweeter.
Step 3
Heat a frying pan over low heat. Add the seasoned seaweed and stir-fry slowly. It’s crucial to cook over low heat to prevent burning. You’ll know it’s almost ready when the seaweed becomes slightly crispy and releases a toasty aroma. Avoid overcooking, as it can burn easily. Stir-frying until just before it starts to burn will give you the best crispiness. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4
Just before turning off the heat, generously sprinkle in the toasted sesame seeds. The nutty flavor of the sesame seeds will elevate the taste of your Gim-Jaban. Mix them in evenly.
Step 5
Once cooled completely, store the finished stir-fried seaweed in an airtight container or the original seaweed bag. Proper sealing at room temperature will help maintain its crispiness for a longer period. Refrigeration will extend its shelf life further.
