1. Basic ingredients of kimbap
- Rice : It is best to use rice for kimbap when it is slightly cooled so that it has a little more texture. Season the rice with a little sesame oil and salt.
- Seaweed : For kimbap, choose seaweed that is crunchy and has a good aroma.
- Pickled radish, cucumber, carrot : Prepare for a fresh and crunchy texture.
- Eggs : Eggs are used to make zidane. Prepare the eggs by frying them with a little salt.
- Ham or beef : Beef is seasoned and stir-fried, and ham is cut into appropriate sizes.
- Mayonnaise or sesame oil : Adds flavor to kimbap.
- In Korea, gimbap (or kimbap) is not only a beloved homemade dish but also a popular convenience food offered by various brands and chains across the country. These brands have distinguished themselves through unique flavors, high-quality ingredients, and innovative approaches to this traditional Korean snack. Here are five popular gimbap brands in Korea and their characteristics:
- 1. 김밥천국
- Characteristics: 김밥천국 , literally translating to “Gimbap Heaven,” is one of the most well-known gimbap chains in Korea. It offers a wide variety of gimbap at very affordable prices, making it a favorite among students and workers alike. Apart from traditional gimbap, they offer unique variations like cheese gimbap, tuna gimbap, and bulgogi gimbap. The portions are generous, and the taste is consistent, making it a reliable choice for a quick and satisfying meal.
- 2. 삼각김밥(편의점 전용)
- Characteristics: 삼각김밥, or triangle gimbap, is not a brand but a type of gimbap found in convenience stores like CU, GS25, and 7-Eleven. These are pre-packaged, triangle-shaped rice balls with various fillings, such as tuna, kimchi, or beef, wrapped in seaweed. They are popular for their portability, convenience, and innovative flavors that are regularly updated to keep up with consumer trends.
- 3. 바비다비바
- Characteristics: 바비다비바 is known for its high-quality ingredients and health-conscious options. They offer a range of gimbap that includes organic vegetables and premium rice. Their menu also caters to those with specific dietary preferences, offering options like brown rice gimbap, vegetarian gimbap, and more. Babidabida is a go-to for those who are looking for a healthier twist on the traditional gimbap.
- 4. 김밥나라
- Characteristics: 김밥나라, translating to “Gimbap Country,” is another popular chain that serves a variety of gimbap along with other Korean dishes like noodles and rice bowls. They are known for their traditional and authentic flavors, offering classic gimbap varieties that emphasize the quality of basic ingredients like rice, seaweed, and vegetables. Gimbap Nara is favored for its home-style cooking and comfort food vibe.
- 5. 스쿨푸드
- Characteristics: 스쿨푸드 brings a modern twist to traditional Korean gimbap, offering creative and fusion varieties. Some of their popular offerings include spicy squid gimbap, carbonara gimbap, and other innovative flavors that cater to a younger crowd or those seeking a new gimbap experience. School Food is known for its stylish presentation and is often found in trendy neighborhoods and shopping malls.