Korean cuisine has gained widespread popularity in recent times, and its unique blend of bold flavors and nutritious ingredients makes it an attractive option for morning meals too. While most people are familiar with Korean dishes served at lunch or dinner, the breakfast offerings often fly under the radar. This is a shame, as Korean breakfast recipes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
In this article, we’re excited to share 23 mouth-watering Korean breakfast recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of Korean morning meals.
Dalgona Coffee
While it may seem unconventional for our first breakfast recipe to focus on coffee, it’s actually reflective of a common Korean habit where people prioritize their morning caffeine fix over food. In this recipe, we’re sharing a rich and creamy coffee drink that can be easily prepared at home with minimal ingredients. Simply whisk together instant coffee, milk, water, and sugar to create a delightful brew.
Easy Fried Rice
Rice is a staple in many Korean recipes, including breakfast dishes. While you can prepare this meal ahead of time and reheat it in the morning if needed, making it from scratch takes only a moderate amount of time. The dish combines fried rice with savory elements like bacon, mixed vegetables, and soy sauce for added depth.
Egg Dumpling
What’s often mistakenly referred to as ‘dumplings’, this recipe is actually a collection of bite-sized, Korean-inspired omelet-like treats, crafted from glass noodles, carrots, and onions. For an extra kick of flavor, feel free to add some heat with chili pepper.
Enoki Mushroom Egg Pancake
In Korean breakfast culture, savory pancakes are a staple dish that’s both flavorful and filling. One popular variety features enoki mushrooms as its main attraction, requiring just 30 minutes of cooking time to prepare. What’s more, this pancake recipe is surprisingly simple, relying on a short list of ingredients including eggs, flour, green onion, salt, and pepper. Simply combine these elements and cook them in a pan for a delicious and satisfying breakfast treat.
Kimchi Breakfast Pizza
While it may seem unconventional, starting your day with pizza can be a game-changer. This unique breakfast combination features kimchi, mushrooms, spinach, shallots, and eggs, blending sweet and savory flavors to create an unforgettable culinary experience. The tomato sauce is elevated by the addition of miso paste and fish sauce, providing depth and umami notes. Once cooked, simply top with avocado and green onion for a refreshing and satisfying breakfast that’s sure to kickstart your day.
Kimchi Egg
In this series of recipes, we’re showcasing the versatility of kimchi, a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine. If you’re new to kimchi or want to learn more about it, our FAQs section has got you covered. Now, let’s dive into this straightforward recipe that requires only three ingredients: eggs, kimchi, and a bit of vegetable oil. This unique take on scrambled eggs is quick to prepare, ready in just 10 minutes. Simply follow the link below for the full recipe.
Kimchi Fried Rice (Kimchi Bokkeum Bap)
A staple in Korean cuisine, bowls filled with cooked rice – often referred to as bap – form the foundation of numerous meals throughout the day. This particular recipe, for instance, is built upon this simple yet versatile base. When combined with kimchi, crispy bacon, green onions, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, the dish takes on an added layer of complexity. Interestingly, the recipe fares best when using rice that has been prepared the day prior.
Korean Braised Tofu (Dubu Jorim)
For vegans, this recipe offers a convenient and satisfying option. The absence of any meat-based ingredients ensures that this dish aligns with your dietary preferences. Furthermore, its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for those who value ease in the kitchen. The process begins by preparing tofu, which is drained but not pressed. This tender and versatile ingredient is then cooked before being immersed in a homemade marinade.
To maximize the marinating process, it’s recommended to prepare the tofu the night before, allowing six to eight hours for the flavors to meld together.
Korean Chicken Porridge (Dakjuk)
Korean breakfasts often feature porridge as a staple ingredient, which is why several recipes on this list revolve around this traditional dish. One such recipe combines the creamy texture of porridge with the savory flavor of chicken. Unlike Western-style porridges that typically rely on oats, Korean porridge is often served with short-grain rice or sweet rice, offering a unique twist on the classic breakfast combination.
Korean Egg Bread (Gyeran Bbang)
In Korea, egg bread is a beloved street food that’s especially popular during the cold winter months. It’s also a convenient breakfast option for those with hectic mornings, providing a quick and easy solution for busy individuals on-the-go. Many locals frequent specialized egg bread stores to pick up a freshly baked loaf or two before starting their day.
This versatile recipe allows you to customize your egg bread by incorporating various fillings, such as melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fragrant parsley flakes, giving you the freedom to tailor it to your taste.
Korean Egg Drop Sandwich
Inspired by the iconic breakfast chain in South Korea, this recipe brings together the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The visually striking dish has won over the hearts of locals, but it’s not just about looks – the combination of thick slices of white bread, eggs, cheese, and egg drop sauce is a match made in heaven. With these key ingredients, you’re just one step away from creating a culinary masterpiece.
Korean Egg Fried Rice (Gyeran Bokkeum Bap)
In just 10 minutes, you can whip up a delicious egg-fried rice dish using pre-cooked rice. The key is to separate the grains so they don’t stick together. Start by beating your eggs and adding any desired seasonings. Then, heat some spring onion in a pan and pour in the eggs, cooking until they’re almost set. Next, add the cooked rice, along with any additional seasonings you like, and stir-fry everything together.
Korean Egg Roll (Gyeran Mari)
While egg rolls are often served as a side dish, they can also be a delightful breakfast option. These rolled omelets pack a punch of flavor and nutrients, thanks to their filling of colorful vegetables. For this recipe, we’re combining the richness of carrots, yellow onion, green onion, earthy shiitake mushrooms, and tender asparagus into one delicious egg roll. While it may take a little practice to master the rolling technique, don’t worry – with time and patience, you’ll be a pro in no time.
Korean Egg Toast (Gilgeori Toast)
Egg toast marks the third installment in our culinary exploration of all things egg. While we’ve previously delved into the world of egg bread and sandwiches, today’s dish offers a fresh twist – quite literally. The versatility of this recipe lies in its ability to be tailored to your taste preferences, with the filling serving as a canvas for your creativity.
Our take on egg toast features a medley of ingredients, including eggs, cabbage, carrots, and green onions.
This harmonious blend of flavors and textures is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. As you prepare to embark on this gastronomic journey, we invite you to do just that – click the link below to access the full recipe.
Korean Soybean Paste Stew (Doenjang Jjigae)
In Korea, Doenjang Jjigae is a staple breakfast dish that’s enjoyed by many. While it can be savored at any time of day, it’s particularly popular in the morning. The soybean paste stew is a humble yet flavorful meal that’s packed with nutrients. To make this Korean classic, you’ll need just a few ingredients: gochujang, a spicy Korean red chili paste; firm tofu; zucchini; and yellow onion. With these simple components, you can create a hearty and satisfying breakfast dish.
Korean Style Omurice
In Japan, Omurice has its roots, literally meaning omelet and rice. Its popularity has transcended borders, making it a staple in Korean cuisine as well. The key to a mouthwatering Omurice lies in the preparation of the rice – it’s best when cooked a day in advance. Typically, it’s served with a savory sauce and an omelet packed with an assortment of colorful vegetables.
Marinated Eggs (Mayak Gyeran)
To streamline your morning routine and save time on breakfast prep, consider marinating eggs on the weekend for a quick and easy meal throughout the week. Simply boil the eggs, then coat them in a flavorful mixture of garlic, green pepper, red chili, and soy sauce. This prep-ahead strategy allows you to enjoy freshly made eggs with rice or your preferred accompaniment for days to come.
Pumpkin Porridge (Hobakjuk)
For a comforting breakfast on a chilly morning, we’re returning to the world of porridge. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between warmth and lightness, ensuring you’ll be energized rather than sluggish. And, for added substance, consider shaping some sweet rice balls. If you have an Instant Pot at your disposal, feel free to use it to streamline the cooking process – just another convenient option in this versatile porridge recipe.
Strawberry Milk
Expanding our list of refreshing morning options, we’ve added another delightful beverage to kick-start your day. This sweet treat is a summer favorite that can be enjoyed at any time of day, whether as a breakfast pick-me-up or an afternoon refresher. Simply blend together fresh strawberries, a touch of sugar, and your preferred milk for a delicious and revitalizing drink.
Final Thoughts
This article presents an extensive collection of 23 mouth-watering Korean breakfast recipes, showcasing a diverse range of options that cater to various tastes and preferences. The compilation includes both hearty, filling dishes that require a bit more preparation time and quick, easy-to-make meals that can be whipped up in no time.
Moreover, many of these recipes incorporate traditional Korean ingredients, while others can be easily prepared using common staples found in your local grocery store.
Barbara is an enthusiastic food-exploring person that goes through different culinary experiences. She got inspired by creating a pizza blog post after she tasted one of the best-selling pizzas in Toledo.