Crispy Tuna Kimchi Rice Waffles
Super Simple Weekend Lunch Special: Tuna Kimchi Rice Waffles Made with Leftover Rice and Kimchi!
This is a unique and delicious fusion dish made by grilling leftover rice, well-fermented kimchi, and savory tuna in an electric waffle maker. The crispy exterior and moist interior come together to create a treat that everyone from kids to adults will enjoy. It’s a great way to make a satisfying meal with simple ingredients.
Main Ingredients- 2 bowls of leftover rice or freshly cooked rice (warmed up)
- 200-300g of well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi (about 1.5 cups), finely chopped
- 1 small can of tuna (drained)
Seasoning & Others- 1 Tbsp sugar (balances the kimchi’s sourness and enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Korean pancake mix (buchim garu) or all-purpose flour (helps shape the waffles and makes them crispy)
- A tiny pinch of black pepper (adds aroma)
- A little olive oil or cooking oil (for greasing the waffle maker and cooking)
- 1 Tbsp sugar (balances the kimchi’s sourness and enhances flavor)
- 1 Tbsp Korean pancake mix (buchim garu) or all-purpose flour (helps shape the waffles and makes them crispy)
- A tiny pinch of black pepper (adds aroma)
- A little olive oil or cooking oil (for greasing the waffle maker and cooking)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the rice. If using leftover rice, warm it up slightly in the microwave. This helps the kimchi mix in better and results in tastier waffles. Freshly cooked rice can also be used.
Step 2
Prepare the well-fermented napa cabbage kimchi and chop it as finely as possible. If the kimchi pieces are too large, the waffle batter might not mix evenly. Chopping it finely makes it easier to eat, especially for children. You can adjust the amount of sugar based on the kimchi’s saltiness.
Step 3
Now it’s time to combine all the ingredients. In a large bowl, add the warmed rice, finely chopped kimchi, well-drained tuna, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of buchim garu (or flour), and a tiny pinch of black pepper.
Step 4
Mix everything thoroughly with a spatula or your hands until well combined. Ensure each grain of rice is coated with seasoning and the kimchi and tuna are evenly distributed. This step is crucial for the waffle’s flavor.
Step 5
Preheat your electric waffle maker over medium heat, then lightly coat the surface with olive oil or cooking oil. Scoop about 2-3 tablespoons of the kimchi rice mixture onto the waffle maker. Drizzle a little more oil over the mixture for extra crispiness. Close the waffle maker lid and cook for about 1 minute. (Adjust cooking time based on your waffle maker’s performance.)
Step 6
You’ve created a unique Tuna Kimchi Rice Waffle, combining the spicy kick of kimchi fried rice, the savory taste of kimchi pancake, and the crispy texture of a waffle! These are perfect as a simple and portable lunchbox item for a spring outing or as a quick meal. They are best enjoyed while warm.
