Spicy Tuna Kimbap: A Unique and Flavorful Korean Rice Roll
Spicy Tuna Kimbap: A Unique and Flavorful Korean Rice Roll
How to Make Spicy Tuna Kimbap
Experience a delightful twist on traditional kimbap with our Spicy Tuna Kimbap recipe! This recipe elevates the classic rice roll with a savory and slightly spicy tuna filling, enhanced by fresh perilla leaves. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a special homemade treat that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients- 2 bowls warm cooked short-grain brown rice
- 1 can (approx. 5-6 oz) spicy tuna (Korean style, typically with chili oil/sauce)
- 6-8 fresh perilla leaves (깻잎)
- 3-4 sheets dried seaweed for kimbap (김)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- A pinch of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by seasoning the rice, the foundation of great kimbap. In a bowl, combine the warm cooked short-grain brown rice with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and a pinch of salt. Gently mix with a rice paddle or spatula, being careful not to mash the rice grains. This step ensures the rice is flavorful and slightly glossy, ready to be rolled.
Step 2
Now, let’s assemble the kimbap. Lay a sheet of kimbap seaweed (the rough side facing up) on a clean cutting board. Spread a thin, even layer of the seasoned rice over about two-thirds of the seaweed sheet, leaving a small margin at the top edge. Wash and pat dry the perilla leaves, then arrange 2-3 leaves overlapping each other on top of the rice. Next, drain any excess oil from the spicy tuna and spread it evenly in a line over the perilla leaves. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult.
Step 3
It’s time to roll! Starting from the edge closest to you, lift and roll the seaweed tightly, tucking in the filling as you go. Continue rolling, applying gentle pressure to create a firm log. Use a little water or a few grains of mashed rice along the top edge of the seaweed to help seal the roll. Once rolled, let the kimbap rest seam-side down for a minute. Finally, slice the kimbap into bite-sized pieces (about 3/4 inch thick) using a sharp knife. For cleaner cuts, you can dampen the knife slightly or brush the outside of the roll with a little sesame oil.
