Namul Kimbap: A Magical Way to Use Leftover Holiday Banchan
Repurposing Holiday Leftovers into Namul Kimbap
Have leftover namul banchan (seasoned vegetables) from holiday feasts? Instead of letting them go to waste, why not transform them into delicious kimbap! The combination of rice seasoned with spicy gochujang and fresh namul creates a wonderfully appetizing flavor without any heaviness. Introducing ‘Namul Kimbap,’ a recipe that comes together in about 10 minutes, perfect for using up those holiday leftovers. Experience a special way to enjoy your remaining banchan deliciously and elegantly!
Main Ingredients- 2 servings cooked rice
- 10 lettuce leaves
- 100g assorted namul banchan (e.g., soybean sprouts, crown daisy, fernbrake)
- 2 sheets of kimbap seaweed (nori)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare your namul banchan. We’ve used a mix of soybean sprouts, crown daisy, and fernbrake, but feel free to use any other namul you have on hand.
Step 2
Now, let’s season the rice for the kimbap filling. In a bowl with 2 servings of warm cooked rice, add 1 tablespoon of commercial yak gochujang, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, and a pinch of sesame seeds. Gently mix with a spatula or spoon, being careful not to mash the rice grains, until the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 3
Place a sheet of kimbap seaweed on a cutting board or bamboo mat. Spread the seasoned rice evenly over about two-thirds of the seaweed sheet. Leave a small margin at the top edge to help seal the roll.
Step 4
Layer several fresh lettuce leaves on top of the rice. Lettuce adds a refreshing crunch and cuts through any richness. Generously pile your assorted namul banchan over the lettuce. Try to spread the namul evenly to ensure good distribution in every bite.
Step 5
Carefully roll the kimbap tightly, using the bamboo mat if you have one to help shape it. Once rolled, lightly brush the top of the kimbap with sesame oil for a nice sheen. Slice the kimbap into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 cm thick). For cleaner cuts, you can lightly dampen your knife or score the kimbap before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Step 6
Voila! Your leftover holiday namul banchan has been wonderfully transformed into delicious ‘Namul Kimbap’. Make a satisfying and elegant meal by creatively using up those holiday remnants. Enjoy your simple yet special kimbap!
