Crisp and Fresh Napa Cabbage Wraps (Ssambap)
Healthy and Delicious Napa Cabbage Wraps Using Baby Napa Cabbage, Perfect for a Diet Menu!
Introducing a recipe for delicious Napa Cabbage Wraps (Ssambap) that combines the crisp texture of baby Napa cabbage with savory rice and flavorful meat. This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect for a meal or a bento box. It’s also a healthy option that can be enjoyed without guilt, especially when dieting. Serve with a variety of delicious accompaniments.
Main Ingredients- 7 leaves Baby Napa Cabbage
- Beef skirt steak (or your preferred meat)
- A pinch of Herb Salt
- 1 bowl of cooked Rice
- A pinch of Salt
- 1/2 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Thoroughly wash the fresh baby Napa cabbage using water mixed with baking soda. This effectively removes dirt and impurities from the outer leaves.
Step 2
Place the washed baby Napa cabbage in a microwave-safe container and steam for about 3-4 minutes. Adjust the time to make the cabbage tender and pliable for wrapping. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave, so check periodically and steam until the leaves can be easily folded without breaking.
Step 3
In the warm cooked rice, add a pinch of salt, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix gently and evenly. Avoid mashing the rice grains; mixing softly helps maintain a nice shape for your wraps.
Step 4
Once the baby Napa cabbage is out of the microwave, let it cool slightly. Then, gently press it with your hands to squeeze out excess water. Be careful not to burn yourself if the cabbage is still very hot. Once this is done, your cabbage preparation is complete!
Step 5
Shape the prepared rice into a suitable size and place it on a cabbage leaf. Wrap the rice tightly using the cabbage leaf. Well-steamed cabbage is elastic, making it easy to roll. Ensure it’s rolled firmly so it doesn’t come apart.
Step 6
If, after rolling, the wraps are too large to eat in one bite due to the thickness of the cabbage, you can cut them in half or quarters with a knife. This makes them neat, visually appealing, and much easier to handle and eat.
Step 7
Season the beef skirt steak with just a pinch of herb salt and pan-sear it. Napa cabbage wraps pair wonderfully with various main dishes such as Jeyuk Bokkeum (spicy stir-fried pork), Bulgogi (marinated grilled beef), duck dishes, or Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken). Try them with your favorite main course!
Step 8
If your cabbage wraps seem a bit large for a single bite, cut them in half to a more manageable size. They are delicious served with Ssamjang (dipping sauce), Gochujang (red chili paste), or your favorite fermented seafood. Enjoy your meal!
