Fresh Garlic Chive Kimbap + Ssamjang Twist + A Fusion of Flavors You’ll Love

Fresh Garlic Chive Kimbap is a delightful twist on the traditional Korean seaweed rice rolls. This vibrant dish combines the crispness of garlic chives, fresh lettuce, and flavorful tuna with a drizzle of bold ssamjang sauce for a modern, irresistible take on kimbap. Perfect for a quick lunch, picnic, or party platter, it’s easy to assemble and packed with balanced, umami-filled goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned kimbap lover or a curious foodie, this recipe promises a taste of Korea with every bite.

There’s something magical about kimbap—it’s portable, customizable, and always satisfying. While traditional versions often feature pickled radish, fishcake, or bulgogi, this fresh garlic chive kimbap stands out for its clean flavors and modern touch. Garlic chives, known as “Buchu” (부추) in Korean, bring a mild garlicky punch and are rich in vitamins A and C, making this dish both delicious and nutritious. Paired with crisp lettuce and the umami-packed ssamjang drizzle, each bite feels like a celebration of Korea’s culinary creativity. Whether you’re hosting friends or craving something new, this kimbap is your answer.










Recipe Details: Fresh Garlic chive Kimbap

Serving Size: Makes 4 rolls (serves 2-4)

 

Ingredients:

For the kimbap rolls:

  • Garlic chives: 70g (2.5 oz)
  • Lettuce: 8 leaves
  • Tuna: 1 can (425g/15 oz), drained
  • Cooked short-grain rice: 4 cups (800g/28 oz)
  • Sesame seeds: 1 tbsp (15g)
  • Sesame oil: 1 tbsp (15mL)
  • Salt: ½ tsp (2g)
  • Seaweed sheets: 4 large sheets

 

For the ssamjang sauce:

  • Gochujang (Korean chili paste): 1 tbsp (15g)
  • Doenjang (Korean soybean paste): 1 tbsp (15g)
  • Soy sauce: 1 tsp (5mL)
  • Apple cider vinegar: 1 tbsp (15mL)
  • Sesame oil: 1 tbsp (15mL)
  • Sesame seeds: 1 tsp (5g)
  • Garlic powder: 1 tsp (2g)
  • Sugar or stevia: 2 tsp (10g or 2g for stevia)

 

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the rice:
    • Mix the cooked rice with sesame seeds, sesame oil, and salt in a large bowl. Set aside.
  2. Make the ssamjang sauce:
    • Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Transfer the sauce into a small zipper bag, snip a small corner, and set aside for drizzling.
  3. Prep the fillings:
    • Wash and pat dry the lettuce leaves and garlic chives. Drain the tuna thoroughly and flake it lightly with a fork.
  4. Assemble the kimbap:
    • Place a sheet of seaweed shiny side down on a bamboo rolling mat. Spread a thin layer of seasoned rice evenly over two-thirds of the seaweed sheet.
    • Lay two lettuce leaves on top of the rice, then arrange garlic chives and tuna horizontally across the center.
    • Drizzle a thin line of ssamjang sauce over the lettuce.
  5. Roll the kimbap:
    • Use the bamboo mat to tightly roll the kimbap, starting from the edge with fillings. Apply gentle pressure as you roll to ensure a firm shape.
    • Seal the roll by moistening the edge of the seaweed with a little water.
  6. Cut and serve:
    • Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces. Clean the knife with a damp cloth between cuts for cleaner edges. Arrange on a platter and enjoy!

Tips for the Dish:

  • Ingredient Substitutions: Swap tuna for grilled chicken, tofu, or seasoned mushrooms for a vegetarian option. For a gluten-free version, ensure the soy sauce and gochujang are gluten-free.
  • Storage Tips: Wrap leftover rolls tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Consume within 24 hours for the best taste.
  • Advanced Prep: Prepare the rice, ssamjang sauce, and fillings a day ahead. Store them in separate containers in the fridge for quick assembly.
  • Ingredient Quality: Use fresh garlic chives and crisp lettuce for the best texture. Look for short-grain rice for authentic stickiness.

Wrap-Up: Fresh Garlic Chive Kimbap is a delightful fusion of traditional Korean ingredients and fresh, modern flavors. Its versatility and bold taste make it a go-to recipe for gatherings, picnics, or quick meals. I’d love to see your creative twists on this dish—share your versions in the comments or tag me on social media for a chance to be featured. Happy rolling!


Keywords(키워드): Korean kimbap recipe, garlic chive kimbap, ssamjang kimbap, fresh kimbap ideas, 부추김밥, 쌈장김밥, 프레쉬한 김밥

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