Korean Vegetarian Foods That Are Great for Meal Prepping

Korean cuisine offers a vibrant array of flavors and textures, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping, especially for vegetarians. Whether you are a full-time vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, these Korean vegetarian foods are easy to prepare, nutritious, and delicious.

1. Bibimbap Bowls

Bibimbap is a traditional Korean dish that consists of rice topped with an assortment of vegetables, usually accompanied by a fried egg and gochujang (Korean chili paste). For vegetarian meal prep, omit the egg or replace it with tofu for added protein. You can mix various vegetables like carrots, spinach, mushrooms, and zucchini, and store them in individual containers with the rice. Simply add gochujang before serving for a burst of flavor.

2. Japchae (Sweet Potato Noodles)

Japchae is a savory-sweet dish made with glass noodles (made from sweet potatoes), stir-fried with vegetables and a sauce made from soy sauce and sesame oil. It is versatile and can include an array of vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and spinach. Prepare a large batch and portion it out for a quick meal throughout the week. Japchae also stores well and can be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for on-the-go lunches.

3. Kimchi

While traditional kimchi often contains fish sauce, vegetarian kimchi can be made using ingredients like napa cabbage, radishes, garlic, ginger, and gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes). Fermented vegetables like kimchi are not only rich in probiotics but also serve as a delicious side dish that can enhance any meal. Prepare a batch over the weekend and keep it in the fridge for an easy addition to your lunches and dinners.

4. Vegetable Kimbap

Kimbap, Korean sushi rolls, can easily be made vegetarian by using ingredients such as seasoned spinach, pickled radish, cucumber, and carrot. These rolls are perfect for meal prep as they are portable and can be eaten cold or at room temperature. Slice them into bite-sized pieces and store them in a lunchbox for a nutritious snack or meal.

5. Tofu Stews (Sundubu-jjigae)

Sundubu-jjigae is a spicy tofu stew that can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting meat. Silken tofu, mushrooms, zucchini, and kimchi create a rich and flavorful dish that is comforting and satisfying. Cook a large batch during the week and store it in single-serving containers; just reheat when you're ready to eat!

6. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)

This refreshing side dish combines cucumbers with garlic, sesame oil, vinegar, and gochugaru. Oi Muchim is a quick and easy dish to prepare and can be scaled up for meal prep. It pairs wonderfully with rice and other Korean dishes, adding a refreshing crunch to your meals throughout the week.

7. Korean-style Stir-fried Vegetables

A mix of seasonal vegetables tossed with sesame oil, soy sauce, and garlic can be a delicious and nutritious meal prep option. Use vegetables like bok choy, bell peppers, and carrots, and sauté them quickly in a hot pan. Pack in meal prep containers and pair with rice or noodles for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Incorporating Korean vegetarian foods into your meal prep is an excellent way to enjoy varied and delightful flavors while ensuring you have nutritious meals ready to go. From bibimbap to kimbap, these dishes are not only simple to make but also maintain their taste and texture throughout the week. Start exploring these dishes today and take your meal prep to new savory heights!