15/10/2025
Kimbap (김밥) is a Korean dish made from cooked rice, vegetables, fish, and meat rolled in gim (dried sheets of seaweed) and served in bite-sized slices. It is often compared to Japanese sushi because of its rolled form, but it has a unique Korean twist.
History of Kimbap
The origins of kimbap are debated.
• Multiple Theories: Some believe it originated from the Japanese sushi variant makizushi, introduced during Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945). During this time, Korean cuisine adopted some Japanese food items, and the Japanese norimaki was transformed into a Korean version by seaweed-loving Koreans.
• Local Tradition: Another theory suggests that kimbap developed from the long-established local tradition of rolling bap (cooked rice) and banchan (side dishes) in gim. Cooked rice rolled in gim was referred to as boks sam in the Joseon era (1392–1897).
• Evolving Dish: Regardless of its exact origin, kimbap has evolved into a distinct dish in Korea, often utilizing traditional Korean flavors and sesame oil instead of rice vinegar.
How Kimbap is Made
Gimbap consists of two basic components: gim (seaweed) and bap (rice).
• Ingredients: The main ingredients include gim (dried seaweed sheets), cooked rice, and various fillings such as vegetables, eggs, and meats.
• Rice: Short-grain white rice is typically used, seasoned with sesame oil and a pinch of salt.
• Fillings: Common fillings include carrots, spinach, cucumber, pickled radish, eggs, ham, and imitation crab sticks. Tofu can be used as a vegetarian alternative.
• Preparation: Seasoned rice is spread on a sheet of dried seaweed. Various ingredients are placed on top, and the rice and seaweed are rolled tightly. The roll is then sliced into bite-sized pieces.