Looking for a quick and tasty Korean-style lunch that’s portable, colorful, and satisfying? This Easy Devon Ham Kimbap (김밥) is your answer! It’s a fusion twist on the beloved Korean rice roll, using humble Devon ham instead of traditional beef or spam — giving it a soft, savory, and slightly nostalgic flavor that pairs beautifully with crunchy pickled cucumbers and fluffy egg omelette. Perfect for meal prep, picnics, or quick lunch boxes, this easy kimbap is all about convenience without compromising taste.
Kimbap is one of Korea’s most iconic comfort foods — often packed for picnics, school lunches, or road trips. Traditionally made with seasoned rice, vegetables, and proteins rolled in seaweed, it’s a dish that celebrates balance and creativity. In this version, I’ve swapped the usual spam or beef for Devon ham, a classic Aussie lunch meat that blends surprisingly well with Korean flavors. The mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and oligo syrup gives the filling a glossy, umami-rich coating that makes every bite satisfying. The egg omelette adds softness, while pickled cucumbers cut through the richness for a refreshing finish.
It’s easy to make ahead — simply wrap the rolls tightly and refrigerate. Slice them just before serving, and brush with a touch of sesame oil to keep the seaweed soft and shiny.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
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Devon ham → Adds a mild, savory flavor and meaty texture; budget-friendly and easy to cook.
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Carrot → Brings natural sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing the ham’s saltiness.
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Eggs & spring onion → Create a fluffy omelette layer that adds protein and aroma.
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Pickled cucumber → Adds tang and crunch, preventing the kimbap from tasting too heavy.
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Soy sauce, oyster sauce & oligo syrup → Combine for that signature Korean glaze — salty, umami, and slightly sweet.
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Sesame oil & sesame seeds → Provide a nutty aroma and shine, finishing the roll beautifully.
Easy Devon Ham Kimbap Recipe Details
📌 Prep Time: 15 mins| Cook Time: 10 mins |Total Time: 25 mins |Cuisine Type: Korean Fusion |Calories (Estimate): 420 kcal per serving |Serving Size: Makes 3 rolls (2–3 servings)
📝 Ingredients
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200g (7 oz) Devon ham, diced
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50g (1.7 oz) carrot, finely diced
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3 eggs
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½ cup spring onion, finely chopped
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3–4 pickled cucumbers, sliced in half lengthwise
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3 servings cooked rice (about 2½ cups)
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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½ tbsp oyster sauce
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½ tbsp oligo syrup (or honey/corn syrup)
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3 sheets seaweed (nori)
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1 tbsp sesame oil (plus extra for brushing)
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1 tsp sesame seeds
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Vegetable oil for frying
👨🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the ingredients:
Finely dice the Devon ham, carrot, and spring onion. Slice pickled cucumbers in half lengthwise.
2️⃣ Make the egg omelette:
In a bowl, whisk eggs with spring onion and a pinch of salt. Heat a non-stick pan over low heat (around 160°C / 320°F) with a little oil. Pour the egg mixture and cook slowly until just set. Flip carefully and cook the other side for 10–15 seconds. Remove, cool slightly, and slice into long strips for kimbap.
3️⃣ Cook the filling:
In the same pan, add a drizzle of oil and cook the diced ham until lightly golden. Add diced carrots and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes.
Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and oligo syrup. Stir until the mixture is evenly coated and glossy. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4️⃣ Season the rice:
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice with the ham mixture, a drizzle of sesame oil, and sesame seeds. Mix gently until well combined.
5️⃣ Assemble the kimbap:
Place a sheet of nori (shiny side down) on a bamboo mat. Spread a thin layer of rice mixture evenly over ⅔ of the sheet. Place omelette strips and pickled cucumber in the center.
Roll tightly using gentle pressure to keep the shape firm.
6️⃣ Finish and serve:
Brush the roll with sesame oil for shine and flavor. Slice into bite-size pieces using a sharp, oiled knife.
Enjoy immediately, or pack for lunch — it tastes great even at room temperature!
Tips & Ingredient Substitutions
✔ Substitute Devon ham with spam, chicken, or tofu for variety.
✔ Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
✔ No oligo syrup? Replace with honey or sugar syrup.
✔ To keep the roll soft, cover sliced kimbap with cling wrap until serving.
✔ Add a sheet of lettuce or perilla leaf for extra freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)
Q1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the rolls up to a day ahead. Wrap tightly in cling film and store in the fridge.
Q2. What can I use instead of Devon ham?
Spam, sausage, shredded chicken, or even firm tofu all work great.
Q3. How do I stop the rice from sticking to my hands?
Lightly wet your fingers or use disposable gloves brushed with sesame oil.
Q4. Can I freeze kimbap?
Yes, you can! Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, microwave for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. It stays surprisingly soft and tasty — just brush a bit of sesame oil before serving for that fresh flavor.
Wrap-Up
This Easy Devon Ham Kimbap proves that simple ingredients can turn into something special with just a few Korean flavors. It’s perfect for busy days, picnics, or lunchboxes — light, balanced, and full of umami.
💬 Have you tried using Devon ham in Korean dishes before? Let me know how yours turned out in the comments!
👉 Explore more Korean fusion recipes like Fried Devon Ham Korean Style or Spam & Fried Rice Rolled Omelet on my blog.
Keywords (키워드)
devon ham kimbap, easy kimbap recipe, Korean rice roll, quick lunch ideas, simple Korean recipe, 분홍소세지 김밥,데본햄 김밥, 간단한 김밥, 한식 김밥 레시피, 도시락 김밥, 초간단 요리
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