Inside Out Sandwich Gimbap

Inside Out Sandwich Gimbap is a delightful fusion of two beloved classics—gimbap, a traditional Korean rice roll, and a sandwich. This variation flips the typical gimbap inside out, placing the rice layer on the outside and sandwich-style fillings like ham, cheese, cucumber, and pickled radish on the inside. The use of steamed rice and dried seaweed adds a unique texture and flavor, while the combination of fresh vegetables and perilla leaves enhances the dish with a refreshing herbal note. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or a light snack, this inside-out gimbap is visually appealing and a joy to eat!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Steamed rice (enough to cover the seaweed sheets)
  • Dried seaweed (also called nori sheets)
  • Eggs (for making egg crepes)
  • Ham for sandwiches (thinly sliced)
  • Cheese (thinly sliced or shredded)
  • Perilla leaves (washed and dried)
  • Cucumber, thinly sliced
  • Pickled radish, thinly sliced

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cook the Rice: Start by preparing steamed rice using your preferred method. Let it cool slightly so it is still warm but not too hot. Slightly cooled rice is easier to handle and won’t soften the seaweed too much.
  2. Make the Egg Crepe: Beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour in the egg mixture, swirling it around to create a thin layer. Cook the eggs until fully set, then transfer them to a plate to cool. Once cooled, slice the egg crepe into thin strips.
  3. Slice the Fillings: Thinly slice the ham, cheese, cucumber, and pickled radish into uniform strips. This ensures an even distribution of fillings throughout the gimbap rolls.
  4. Prepare the Perilla Leaves: Wash the perilla leaves thoroughly, pat them dry, and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Seaweed

  1. Lay Out the Seaweed: Place a sheet of dried seaweed (nori) on a clean, flat surface such as a bamboo sushi mat or a cutting board. The shiny side should be facing down, and the rough side should be facing up, where the rice will be spread.

Step 3: Layer the Rice

  1. Spread the Rice: Using a rice paddle or your hands (wet your hands with water to prevent sticking), evenly spread a thin layer of steamed rice over the entire surface of the seaweed. Press the rice down gently but firmly to ensure it sticks to the seaweed.

Step 4: Add the Sandwich Ingredients

  1. Layer the Fillings: Lay the egg strips, sliced ham, cheese, perilla leaves, cucumber, and pickled radish over the rice, placing them in the center of the seaweed sheet. Ensure the ingredients are distributed evenly for a balanced roll.

Step 5: Roll the Gimbap

  1. Roll the Seaweed: Starting from the end closest to you, carefully lift the edge of the seaweed and roll it tightly over the fillings, pressing gently as you roll to keep the fillings intact. Use the bamboo mat (if using) to help roll the seaweed evenly. When you reach the end of the seaweed sheet, seal the roll by moistening the edge with a little water to help it stick.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

  1. Slice the Roll: Using a sharp knife, cut the gimbap roll into bite-sized pieces. To prevent the knife from sticking to the rice, wipe the blade with a damp cloth between cuts.
  2. Arrange and Serve: Arrange the sliced pieces on a serving plate, showcasing the colorful fillings on the outside. Serve the Inside Out Sandwich Gimbap with dipping sauces like soy sauce, or enjoy it on its own.

Cooking Tips:

  • Rice Consistency: The rice should be slightly warm when spreading it on the seaweed. This ensures it sticks properly without tearing the seaweed.
  • Filling Customization: You can customize the fillings based on your preferences. Swap out ham for turkey or tofu, or use fresh veggies like avocado, spinach, or bell peppers.
  • Egg Crepe Tip: Make sure to cook the egg crepe on low heat to prevent it from burning or becoming too crispy. A soft and thin egg crepe adds a delicate texture to the gimbap.
  • Seaweed Freshness: Use fresh seaweed for the best results. Seaweed that has been exposed to air for too long can become brittle and difficult to roll.

Storage:

  • Refrigeration: If you’re making the gimbap ahead of time, store the rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate. Keep in mind that the seaweed may lose its crispness after being refrigerated.
  • Room Temperature: Gimbap is best eaten fresh, but it can be kept at room temperature for a few hours. For longer storage, wrap the rolls in plastic wrap to keep them fresh.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Please note these values are approximate and will vary based on the exact quantities and brands of ingredients used.

FAQs:

  1. Can I substitute perilla leaves? Yes! If you can’t find perilla leaves, you can use spinach, lettuce, or any leafy green you prefer for a similar texture.
  2. What’s the difference between gimbap and sushi? Gimbap typically uses cooked ingredients like vegetables, ham, and eggs, while sushi often features raw fish and uses vinegar-seasoned rice. Gimbap is seasoned with sesame oil, which gives it a different flavor profile.
  3. Can I use different fillings? Absolutely! Gimbap is very versatile, and you can swap out the ingredients with any of your favorite sandwich or sushi fillings.
  4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, to make it vegetarian or vegan, you can omit the ham and cheese and use tofu, mushrooms, or additional vegetables as a substitute. For a vegan egg substitute, you can use a tofu-based scramble or omit the egg altogether.
  5. How can I keep the seaweed crisp? Gimbap is best enjoyed fresh as the seaweed tends to soften after a while. To maintain its crispness, serve immediately after preparation.

Conclusion:

Inside Out Sandwich Gimbap combines the best of both worlds—the heartiness of a sandwich and the freshness of traditional Korean gimbap. This recipe not only looks visually appealing but also offers a medley of textures and flavors, from the crispy seaweed to the soft rice and savory fillings. With customizable ingredients, this dish can be tailored to suit any preference, making it a fantastic option for a quick snack, lunch, or even party platter. Whether you’re a fan of classic gimbap or looking for a new way to enjoy sandwiches, this Inside Out Sandwich Gimbap is sure to satisfy!