Kimchi fried rice is a quick and delicious dish that is easy enough to make during the week or the weekend. This basic recipe packs extra kimchi flavor and spice!
Heat around one tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds to one minute, just until lightly browned.
Add the chopped kimchi and gochujang and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until it starts to smell fragrant and crisp up. Frying the kimchi also helps to prevent the rice from getting too soggy/mushy in the following step.
Add the rice to the kimchi. Mix well to combine so that the rice separates nicely and the mixture is uniform in color. Continue to stir-fry for a few more minutes to heat the rice thoroughly and toast slightly.
Mix in the kimchi juice and sesame oil. Remove the pan from the heat. Taste and add a pinch of salt or sugar if needed.
Optionally garnish with green onion, sesame seeds, fried eggs, and gim before serving.