How to Make Vegetarian Korean Dishes That Are Simple and Quick

If you're looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine while sticking to a vegetarian diet, you're in the right place. In this article, we will guide you through some simple and quick vegetarian Korean dishes that are not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Let's dive into the recipes!

1. Korean Vegetable Stir-Fry (Bokkeum)

This colorful dish is a delightful mix of vegetables that you can whip up in just 20 minutes.

  • Ingredients: Cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, tofu, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and green onions.
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a pan.
    2. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
    3. Add the chopped vegetables and tofu, stir-frying for about 5-7 minutes.
    4. Pour in the soy sauce and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
    5. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

2. Korean Spicy Rice Cakes (Tteokbokki) - Vegetarian Version

Tteokbokki is a beloved Korean street food, and you can easily make a vegetarian version at home.

  • Ingredients: Korean rice cakes, gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, fish sauce (or a vegetarian substitute), sugar, and green onions.
  • Instructions:
    1. Soak the rice cakes in warm water for about 30 minutes if they are hard.
    2. Add the soaked rice cakes and simmer until they absorb the flavors, about 10 minutes.
    3. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

3. Kimchi Fried Rice (Kimchi-bokkeumbap)

This dish is a delightful way to use leftover kimchi for a quick meal that’s bursting with flavor.

  • Ingredients: Cooked rice, kimchi, tofu (or egg for non-vegan), peas, soy sauce, and sesame seeds.
  • Instructions:
    1. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a pan and add chopped kimchi, cooking until fragrant.
    2. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for a few minutes.
    3. Incorporate tofu or a well-scrambled egg, peas, and a splash of soy sauce.
    4. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes and serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

4. Korean Bean Sprout Salad (Sukju Namul)

This salad is refreshing and nutritious, making it a great side dish or light meal.

  • Ingredients: Bean sprouts, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
  • Instructions:
    1. Blanch the bean sprouts in boiling water for about 2 minutes, then drain.
    2. In a bowl, combine the blanched bean sprouts with minced garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
    3. Toss well and top with sesame seeds before serving.

5. Easy Vegetable Dumplings (Mandu)

Mandu are a fantastic appetizer or main dish that you can customize with your favorite vegetables.

  • Ingredients: Dumpling wrappers, spinach, mushrooms, carrot, tofu, garlic, and soy sauce.
  • Instructions:
    1. In a bowl, mix finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, carrot, tofu, minced garlic, and a touch of soy sauce.
    2. Place a small spoonful of the mixture onto a dumpling wrapper and fold to seal.
    3. Steam or pan-fry the dumplings until golden and serve with soy sauce for dipping.