Delicious & Authentic Korean Bibimmyeon: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 packs of Korean cold noodles (Bibimmyeon)
  • 2 tablespoons of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
  • 1 clove of garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 carrot, julienned
  • 1 hard-boiled egg, sliced
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds

Steps and instructions

  1. Boil the noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse under cold water and drain well.
  2. In a bowl, mix together gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the sauce and mix well.
  4. Place the drained noodles in a large bowl. Add the sauce and mix well until the noodles are evenly coated.
  5. Add the cucumber and carrot to the noodles. Mix well.
  6. Place the noodle mixture on a serving plate. Top with sliced hard-boiled egg, chopped green onions, and sesame seeds.
  7. Serve immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for boiling the noodles
  • Bowl - for mixing the sauce and noodles
  • Knife - for mincing garlic and julienning vegetables
  • Cutting board - for chopping vegetables
  • Serving plate - for presenting the final dish
  • Spoon - for mixing the sauce and noodles
  • Tongs - for tossing the noodles and vegetables
  • Saucepan - for boiling the eggs

Recipe variations

  • Add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for a protein-packed version.
  • Replace the Korean cold noodles with spaghetti or udon noodles for a different texture.
  • Add sliced bell peppers, bean sprouts, or radishes for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Try using different vegetables like zucchini, kale, or spinach for a unique twist.
  • For a vegetarian or vegan option, omit the meat and egg, and add tofu or tempeh instead.
  • Experiment with different levels of spiciness by adjusting the amount of gochujang.
  • Add a dollop of Korean mustard sauce (gyeoja) for an extra kick.
  • Garnish with fresh cilantro or mint leaves for added freshness.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our delicious Bibimmyeon recipe! Bibimmyeon, also known as Korean spicy mixed noodles, is a popular dish enjoyed especially in the summer. It is a delightful mix of cold noodles and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce. The dish is crowned with a hard-boiled egg and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a refreshing meal on a hot day. Expect a balance of flavors and a satisfying meal that is both healthy and flavorful. Let's get cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of noodle? Yes, you can use other types of noodles such as soba noodles or even spaghetti if you don't have Korean cold noodles.
  2. Is gochujang spicy? Yes, gochujang has a spicy flavor. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount of gochujang used in the sauce.
  3. Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Some commonly added vegetables include lettuce, bean sprouts, and radishes.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the noodles and sauce ahead of time, but it's best to add the vegetables and toppings just before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch.
  5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the hard-boiled egg and ensuring that the ingredients you use, such as the noodles and sauces, are vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Bibimmyeon, a beloved summer dish in Korea, derives its name from the word "bibim," meaning "mixed," and "myeon," meaning "noodles." Steeped in the Korean tradition of mixing various ingredients for a flavorful ensemble, Bibimmyeon not only offers a refreshing taste but also a vibrant visual appeal with its colorful ingredients. The presence of gochujang, a spicy red pepper paste, is a testament to Korea's historical love affair with heat, dating back to the introduction of chili peppers from the New World in the 17th century. This dish also reflects the Korean philosophy of 'Eumyangohaeng,' which is about the balance and harmony of yin and yang, and the five elements in the universe. Each ingredient in Bibimmyeon represents a different element, and together, they create a well-balanced, harmonious meal.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.