Let’s dive into Filipino cuisine with our Vegan Bibimbap Recipe This hearty dish features tender vegetables like eggplant, green beans, and bok choy cooked in a creamy peanut sauce. Flavorful and comforting, it’s traditionally served with vegan bagoong (fermented shrimp paste) and steamed rice. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a delicious blend of savory, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors that’s truly irresistible!
WHY IT WORKS?
- Incorporates a rainbow of vegetables, ensuring a nutrient-dense meal.
- The use of tofu as a protein source makes it both hearty and vegan-friendly.
- Gochujang sauce adds a deep, complex flavor, balancing spicy, sweet, and savory.
- Quick-pickled vegetables introduce a bright acidity, cutting through the richness.
- A drizzle of sesame oil before serving infuses a nutty aroma, elevating the dish’s overall taste.
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Finding a dish that satisfies the palate, aligns with vegan values, and doesn’t require cooking hours can feel like a culinary quest. Enter the Vegan Bibimbap Recipe, a game-changer for plant-based eaters craving a burst of flavor and a punch of protein.
I remember my skepticism before diving into the vegan Korean cuisine world: could it replicate the depth of flavors I adored? My journey led me to craft a vegan version of bibimbap,
proving that you can recreate this beloved dish without compromising on taste or tradition with the right ingredients and techniques. This recipe is my go-to, offering a delicious, nutritious solution to mealtime monotony.
What Is Vegan Bibimbap?
Vegan Bibimbap is a plant-based twist on the traditional Korean dish known for its vibrant assortment of ingredients and flavors. It replaces meat with tofu or tempeh, ensuring a protein-rich meal, and piles on an array of fresh and sautéed vegetables over a bed of steamed rice.
The dish combines a spicy, savory gochujang sauce, often veganized to omit fish sauce. Topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil, Vegan Bibimbap is a colorful, nutritious, and customizable meal that delights the senses and caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.
Quick Fact: Studies show that incorporating meals like Vegan Bibimbap into your diet can enhance nutrient intake, offering a great way to enjoy a diverse range of vegetables and proteins.
Recipe Directions
Tofu Preparation
- Cut the pressed tofu block into 12 equal cubes.
- In a shallow bowl, mix soy sauce with 1 tsp of Gochujang. Pour this over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning once.
Cooking Tofu
- For Pan-frying: Heat 2 tsp of oil in a non-stick pan. Fry marinated tofu cubes until browned on all sides. Be cautious of splattering.
- For Baking, Preheat the oven to 180° C (355° F). Place the tofu on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Pickled Daikon (Preferably Made a Day Ahead)
- Slice daikon thinly and place in a jar.
- Bring a mixture of rice vinegar, water, sugar, and salt to a gentle boil. Pour over daikon slices.
- Seal in an airtight jar and refrigerate. Best if allowed to develop flavors overnight.
Dressing
- Whisk together Gochujang (to taste), sesame oil, a little soy sauce, and water to create a dressing. Adjust quantities based on preference.
Assembly
- Heat 2 tsp of oil in a pan. Sauté mushrooms until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- In the same pan, wilt spinach with a splash of water. Season.
- Divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Arrange the tofu, pickled daikon, mushrooms, and spinach.
- Garnish with sesame seeds. Drizzle with Gochujang dressing before serving.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Grains: While white rice is traditional, you can use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb option.
- Proteins: In addition to tofu, try tempeh or a variety of beans for protein. Edamame beans add a nice crunch and protein boost.
- Vegetables: The vegetables you can include are unlimited. Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and shredded Brussels sprouts work well. For an authentic touch, include kimchi for added flavor.
Add-Ons
- Sautéed Greens: Collard greens, kale, or Swiss chard can add a nutritional punch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try adding roasted sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a deeper flavor.
- Fresh Vegetables: Cucumbers, radishes, or a fresh salad can add a refreshing crunch.
- Fermented Foods: Besides kimchi, consider sauerkraut or pickled vegetables for probiotics and tang.
Toppings
- Nuts and Seeds: For added texture and nutrients, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped nuts on top.
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh cilantro, green onions, or a dash of chili flakes can enhance the flavors.
- Sauces and Dressings: Experiment with different Gochujang mixtures, soy sauce-based dressings, or a tahini drizzle for creaminess.
- Avocado: Slices of avocado can add creaminess and healthy fats.
- Nori or Seaweed: Add strips of nori or a sprinkle of seaweed flakes for a burst of umami flavor.
Vegetable Substitutions
- Kale or Swiss Chard: For a heartier green with a textural contrast.
- Sweet Potatoes: Adding a sweet, creamy element complements the spicy Gochujang.
- Eggplant: Offers a meaty texture, soaking up the sauce beautifully.
- Asparagus: Introduces a subtle, earthy flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Snow Peas: For a crisp, fresh bite and a hint of sweetness.
- Green Apple: Adds a unique, tangy crispness, elevating the freshness.
- Jicama: Brings a refreshing, mild sweetness and an extra crunch.
Quick Tip: For an extra flavor boost in Vegan Bibimbap, lightly toast sesame seeds before sprinkling them over the top. This simple step unlocks a nutty, aromatic depth.
Best Side Dishes
- Kimchi Offers a spicy, tangy contrast to the savory bibimbap.
- Korean Cucumber Salad A refreshing, slightly sweet, and spicy side.
- Steamed Edamame Lightly salted, these provide a great protein boost.
- Seaweed Salad Brings a unique, oceanic flavor that complements the bowl.
- Miso Soup A warm, soothing start that balances the main dish’s complexity.
- Pickled Radishes Add a crunchy, vinegary accent to each bite.
- Tofu Jorim Braised tofu in a savory, sweet sauce for an extra protein side.
- Vegetable Tempura Offers a delightful crunch and variety in texture.
How To Serve?
- Use Large Bowls: Choose wide, shallow bowls to showcase the variety of ingredients.
- Arrange Neatly: Place the cooked rice at the bottom, then arrange the various vegetables and tofu neatly in segments over the rice, creating a vibrant palette.
- Add the Sauce: Drizzle the Gochujang sauce over the top, allowing guests to mix it in as they please.
- Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic finish.
- Offer Extras: Add Gochujang sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the table so guests can adjust their servings to taste.
- Serve with Sides: Serve the side dishes mentioned earlier on separate plates or in small bowls so each person can add them to their bibimbap as desired.
- Mix Before Eating: Encourage everyone to thoroughly mix their bibimbap, ensuring every bite perfectly blends flavors and textures.
Quick Tip: Remember, the key to perfect tofu in Vegan Bibimbap is pressing it well before marinating. This ensures it absorbs more flavor and achieves a better texture.
Storage & Make Ahead
- Make Ahead: Prepare your vegetables and tofu a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge to maintain freshness and texture.
- Storage: Make your pickles at least a day before. They can last in the fridge for up to a month, developing more flavor.
Recipe Fact: Did you know? “Bibimbap” means “mixed rice” in Korean, highlighting the dish’s essence of blending various ingredients for a harmonious flavor experience.
Time-Saving Tips
- Prep Vegetables in Advance: Wash, cut, and store vegetables in the fridge.
- Use Pre-Cooked Rice: Opt for leftover or store-bought pre-cooked rice to save cooking time.
- Quick-Pickling: Quick-pickle your vegetables while preparing other components to streamline the process.
- Batch Cook: Cook larger quantities of tofu and vegetables for weekly meals.
- One-Pan Cooking: Sauté vegetables in batches using the same pan to minimize cleaning.
- Simplify Sauces: Mix Gochujang sauce in a jar and prepare it in the fridge.
- Utilize Kitchen Gadgets: Employ a rice cooker or a vegetable chopper to reduce manual tasks.
- Organize Workflow: Arrange your cooking sequence to multitask effectively, like marinating tofu while working on other prep tasks.
Delicious Vegan Bibimbap Recipe- A Hearty Filipino Cuisine!
Vegan Bibimbap is a delightful, colorful dish that artfully combines marinated tofu, fresh and sautéed vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice; all brought together with a spicy Gochujang sauce. This plant-based version of the traditional Korean meal is nutritious and filling and customizable to cater to various taste preferences, making it a versatile favorite.
2
servings40
minutes35
minutes450
kcal1
overnightKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
200 g 200 Firm non-GMO tofu (cotton, not silken)
4 Tsp 4 Soy sauce or tamari (GF version)
1 Tsp 1 Gochujang (Korean chilli paste) – for bibimbap
4 Tsp 4 Oil (e.g., rice bran oil)
100 g 100 Mushrooms (shiitake if available)
100 g 100 Spinach
1 (shredded) 1 Carrot
50 g 50 Edamame beans
½ Cup ½ Rice, cooked (brown rice preferred)
As needed As needed Pickled daikon
½ (finely sliced) ½ Long cucumber
1 (finely sliced) 1 Spring onion
100 g 100 Daikon (or radishes) – for pickling
60 ml 60 Rice wine vinegar (for pickling)
120 ml 120 Water (for pickling)
2 Tbsp 2 Sugar (for pickling)
1 Tsp 1 Salt (for pickling)
2 Tbsp 2 Gochujang (Korean chilli paste) – for dressing
2 Tsp 2 Rice wine vinegar (for dressing)
1 Tbsp 1 Soy sauce or tamari (GF version, for dressing)
1 Tbsp 1 Toasted sesame oil
1 Tbsp 1 Maple syrup (or sugar dissolved in soy sauce)
1 (Small) 1 Garlic clove, finely grated
Directions
- TOFU Preparation
- Cut a pressed block of tofu into 12 equal cubes.
- Mix soy sauce with 1 tsp Gochujang in a shallow bowl and pour over the tofu. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, turning once.
- To Pan-Fry: Heat 2 tsp of oil in a non-stick pan. Fry the tofu cubes until browned on all sides, watching for splatters.
- To Bake: Preheat the oven to 180° C (355° F). Place tofu on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning once halfway through.
- PICKLED DAIKON
- Thinly slice the daikon and place it in a jar.
- Bring a mixture of rice vinegar, water (adjust according to taste), sugar, and salt to a boil.
- Pour the hot liquid over the daikon slices. Though ready to eat once cooled, they’re best when made a day ahead for enhanced flavor. Store in the fridge.
- DRESSING
- Add all dressing ingredients (Gochujang, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, grated garlic) until smooth.
- ASSEMBLY
- Heat 2 tsp of oil in a pan. Sauté mushrooms until browned, then season with salt and pepper.
- In the same pan, cook spinach with a splash of water until wilted. Season.
- Divide rice between two bowls. Top with the prepared tofu, pickled daikon, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and fresh vegetables like carrot and edamame beans.
- Garnish with sesame seeds and drizzle with the prepared Gochujang dressing.
- Equipment List
- Rice Cooker
- Non-Stick Pan
- Baking Sheet
- Cutting Board
- Knife
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Vegetable Peeler
- Jar (for pickling)
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Tongs
Notes
- Pressing tofu removes excess water, enhancing texture and flavor absorption.
- Marinating tofu for at least 30 minutes ensures deep flavor infusion.
- Pan-frying adds a crispy texture while baking offers a healthier option.
- Pickling daikon a day ahead enriches its taste.
- Adjust the spice level of the Gochujang dressing to your preference.
- Sautéing vegetables separately maintains distinct flavors and textures.
- Assemble ingredients just before serving to retain freshness.
- Garnishing with sesame seeds adds a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vegan Bibimbap Protein-Rich Enough For A Meal?
Yes, Vegan Bibimbap can be a protein-rich meal. This dish provides a good amount of plant-based protein by incorporating tofu, edamame beans, and a variety of vegetables.
Tofu, a key ingredient, is particularly high in protein, offering 10-20 grams per half-cup serving. Including a mix of other protein sources, like beans or tempeh, can further increase the protein content, making it a fulfilling and nutritious option for any meal.
Can I Make Vegan Bibimbap Gluten-Free?
Absolutely. To make Vegan Bibimbap gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce containing wheat. Additionally, verify that the Gochujang (Korean chili paste) you select is labeled gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. With these adjustments, Vegan Bibimbap can easily fit into a gluten-free diet without compromising taste or authenticity.
How Can I Add More Flavor To Vegan Bibimbap Without Adding More Salt?
Enhancing the flavor of Vegan Bibimbap without increasing the salt content involves utilizing a variety of seasonings and techniques. Incorporating fermented foods like kimchi adds depth and complexity,
while a drizzle of toasted sesame oil provides a rich, nutty aroma. Utilizing fresh herbs and spices, as well as a splash of citrus juice or vinegar, can also elevate the dish’s flavor profile without additional salt.
Is It Possible To Meal Prep Vegan Bibimbap For The Week?
Vegan Bibimbap is ideal for meal prep. You can prepare and store individual components separately in the refrigerator. Cooked grains, marinated and cooked tofu, and pickled vegetables can last several days when stored properly.
Sautéed vegetables are best when fresh, but they can be cooked in advance and quickly reheated before assembling the dish. Keeping the dressing on the side until ready to eat ensures the ingredients stay fresh and crisp.
How Can I Make My Vegan Bibimbap More Authentic?
To make your Vegan Bibimbap more authentic, focus on the variety and preparation of vegetables, the quality of your Gochujang, and the inclusion of traditional elements like kimchi.
If available, use a stone bowl (dolsot) to serve your bibimbap, which can be heated to make the rice crispy at the bottom, adding texture and warmth. Incorporating seasonal and fresh vegetables and a homemade Gochujang sauce will also bring your dish closer to those found in Korea, offering an authentic dining experience.
