Baked Kimchi Fried Rice

This baked kimchi fried rice was born in attempts to create a healthier fried rice alternative. It’s a one bowl meal that easy to whip together!

The Search for a Healthier Fried Rice

Every once in a while, my dad will announce a new change in his diet.  

This is usually brought on by a recent check up from his doctor.  If his doctor makes any note about his weight, cholesterol, or blood sugar- you betcha there’s going to be some changes.  

On a recent family dinner, my dad ordered fried rice.  My husband and I quickly intervened and ordered plain steamed rice instead.  

We had to explain, “DAD, fried rice is… fried!”  Technically, it’s stir-fried, but it’s fried nonetheless and it’s oily.

Thinking about my dad and his love for fried rice, I began searching for alternatives.  

BINGO! I found the oven-baked pineapple fried rice from my friend Sarah of Snixy Kitchen and the baked fried brown rice from Oh My Veggies.

 I looked in my fridge and baked kimchi fried rice was born.

Easy Kimchi Fried Rice

From a young age I was taught to always used day old, cold rice when making fried rice.

I applied that same reasoning for this baked fried rice version. 

Day old cold rice is sturdier and able to absorb flavors more easily.

The baked kimchi fried rice is flavored with a mixture soy sauce, sesame oil, kimchi juice, and gochujang.

It is tossed with edamame, green onion, and kimchi.

Store bought kimchi works perfectly well, but if you are one of those all from scratch types, I suggest trying this homemade kimchi by my friend Ellen of In My Red Kitchen. 

This “fried” rice couldn’t be an easier.  Once you’ve gathered all your ingredients, simply toss it all together in a large bowl.  

Yes, even the frozen edamame.  It’ll cook in the oven.  No need to cook it ahead of time.

Mix it all together until the rice is fully coated in sauce. Taste it.  

If you want it spicier, add more gochujang.  

If you want a little more punch, add kimchi juice. (Kimchi juice is basically the liquid the cabbage expels as it is fermenting/pickling.)

Then spread the rice into a thin even layer on a baking sheet.  Put it in the oven and wait for a delicious bowl of kimchi fried rice!

I like to serve this with a sunny side up egg and a sprinkling of toasted white sesame seeds, shredded seaweed, and green onions.  

I can’t wait to share this recipe with my dad… although, I’ll probably have to omit the fried egg.

If you want a healthier option, try my baked kimchi cauliflower rice version! 

P.S. This cooking method is great if you need to serve a large crowd.  Instead of multiple large skillets/woks, you can fill the oven with baked fried rice.