Restaurant-Worthy Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice: An Irresistible Recipe
Restaurant-Worthy Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice: An Irresistible Recipe
Cafe-Quality Kimchi Fried Rice at Home! / How to Make Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice / Easy Kimchi Fried Rice Recipe
This recipe will guide you to create a ‘Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice’ that rivals your favorite cafe’s offering, boasting a depth of flavor that’s truly addictive. The savory richness of tuna combined with the tangy zest of kimchi creates a dish so delicious, you’ll finish every last grain. Simple, foolproof, and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients- 400-420g Cooked Rice (warm, freshly cooked or leftover)
- 200-210g Well-Fermented Kimchi
- 40g Scallions (white parts primarily)
- 3 Tbsp Cooking Oil (approx. 18g)
- 1 Small Can of Tuna (with oil, approx. 100g)
- 1.5 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, approx. 10g)
- 1 Tbsp Sugar (approx. 10g)
- 1/2 Tbsp Beef-flavored Seasoning Powder (like Dasida, approx. 4g)
- 1 Tbsp Mirin (rice wine, approx. 8g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare about 2 bowls of cooked rice (approx. 400-420g). If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a wide plate to cool slightly. Letting the rice cool a bit allows excess moisture to evaporate, resulting in a fluffier and tastier fried rice. (This is based on one standard serving size of rice, like a single microwaveable pack).
Step 2
Finely chop the kimchi. You’ll need about 200g. Using well-fermented kimchi is key for achieving the best flavor.
Step 3
The chopped kimchi should fill approximately 1.2 cups (using a 200cc measuring cup) when lightly packed. If your kimchi is not very moist, consider adding 1 tablespoon of kimchi juice for extra flavor.
Step 4
Finely chop the white parts of the scallions. You should aim for about 5-6 tablespoons, which is roughly 40g. Sautéing scallions adds a wonderful aroma.
Step 5
Heat a pan over medium heat and add 3 tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the chopped scallions and begin to stir-fry.
Step 6
Once the scallions start to sizzle gently, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing their fragrance to release. This step creates a flavorful scallion oil.
Step 7
Gently open the lid of the small tuna can (approx. 100g) and let the oil drain into the pan as it naturally flows out. (It’s a shame how much the can sizes have shrunk recently due to rising prices!)
Step 8
Add 1.5 tablespoons of gochugaru (approx. 10g) and switch the heat to low. Stir-fry for about 1 minute, ensuring the chili flakes don’t burn.
Step 9
Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and mix it evenly with the ingredients once. This helps balance the acidity of the kimchi and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 10
Add all the chopped kimchi to the pan. Increase the heat to medium and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. Cook until the kimchi softens and melds beautifully with the seasonings.
Step 11
Now for a secret ingredient that elevates the taste to restaurant-level! Add half a tablespoon of beef-flavored seasoning powder (approx. 4g). This is a key to that delicious, savory depth!
Step 12
Add the entire contents of the tuna, including the solid pieces. The savory flavor of the tuna, cooked with its oil, pairs wonderfully with the kimchi.
Step 13
Add 1 tablespoon of mirin (rice wine). Turn the heat up to high and stir-fry vigorously for about 1 minute and 30 seconds. This helps evaporate the alcohol, remove any gamey odors, and adds a nice sheen to the dish.
Step 14
Once you can smell the delicious aroma of the stir-fried kimchi, add all the prepared rice to the pan.
Step 15
Keep the heat on high and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, mixing the rice and seasoning thoroughly until no white rice is visible. The more the rice grains get pressed and slightly caramelized on the bottom of the pan, the tastier it becomes, so don’t rush this step. Break up any clumps of rice with your spatula as you stir.
Step 16
Finally, taste and adjust the seasoning. If it’s a bit bland, a pinch of salt or some seasoned seaweed flakes (gim) can be added for extra flavor. Now, take a hearty spoonful and enjoy your delicious Tuna Kimchi Fried Rice! It’s truly heavenly!
