Gyeran-mari (Korean Rolled Omelet) Recipe

Gyeran-mari is a popular Korean side dish (banchan) often enjoyed with steamed rice. This rolled omelet is known for its fluffy texture and savory flavor, enhanced by the addition of finely chopped vegetables. It’s a staple in Korean lunchboxes and a favorite among both children and adults. The simplicity and versatility of gyeran-mari make it a delightful dish to prepare for any meal.

Preparation Time:

  • Total: 20 minutes
    • Preparation: 10 minutes
    • Cooking: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 4 free-range eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper or white pepper
  • Vegetable oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Eggs:
    • Crack 4 eggs into a bowl.
    • Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the eggs.
    • Beat the eggs and salt together until well mixed.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Finely chop 1/2 medium-sized onion.
    • Chop 1 tablespoon of green bell pepper.
    • Chop 1 tablespoon of red bell pepper.
    • Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper to the egg mixture.
    • Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper or white pepper to the mixture.
  3. Cook the Omelet:
    • Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat.
    • Once the pan is hot, add a drop of vegetable oil and spread it around.
    • Turn the heat down to medium-low.
    • Pour a thin layer of the egg mixture into the pan, just enough to cover the bottom.
    • Cook slowly over low heat to maintain a nice yellow color and prevent burning.
    • Once the bottom layer is cooked, gently roll the omelet to one side of the pan using a spatula.
    • Add a bit more oil if necessary and pour more egg mixture to connect with the rolled part.
    • Continue cooking and rolling the omelet until all the egg mixture is used.
  4. Finish the Omelet:
    • Shape the sides by pressing them with the spatula.
    • Ensure both sides are cooked evenly.
    • Remove the omelet from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes before cutting.
  5. Serve:
    • Slice the gyeran-mari into bite-sized pieces.
    • Serve as a side dish (banchan) with rice.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with steamed rice for a simple, satisfying meal.
  • Serve alongside other banchan such as kimchi, pickled radishes, and sautéed vegetables.
  • Enjoy as a light breakfast or snack.

Cooking Tips:

  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent the omelet from sticking.
  • Cook on low heat to avoid burning and to keep the omelet’s bright yellow color.
  • Add vegetables of your choice, but ensure they’re finely chopped to prevent the omelet from falling apart.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • High in protein from eggs.
  • Contains vitamins and minerals from added vegetables.
  • Low in calories and carbs, making it a healthy choice.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-free
  • Vegetarian
  • Can be made dairy-free by using vegetable oil instead of butter

Storage:

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Easy to make with simple ingredients.
  • Versatile and customizable with different vegetables.
  • Nutritious and kid-friendly.
  • Perfect for meal prep and lunchboxes.

Conclusion:

Gyeran-mari is a delightful and versatile dish that brings a touch of Korean cuisine to your table. Its fluffy texture, savory flavor, and colorful presentation make it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a special occasion, this rolled omelet is sure to impress. Enjoy making and sharing this classic Korean side dish!