Why This egg Kimbap is Perfect for Dieters
Unlike traditional kimbap, this version (egg kimbab) uses a thick egg crepe in place of most rice—boosting protein and slashing carbs. You still get the satisfying roll and familiar flavors, but with fewer calories and more muscle-supporting nutrients.
Ingredients (Makes about 4 rolls)
- 4 eggs (for the thick protein layer)
- 2 seaweed sheets
- ½ English cucumber, julienned
- ½ cup julienned carrots
- Pickled radish strips (danmuji)
- 2 tbsp canned tuna, optional for extra protein
- Oil for cooking (sesame or neutral oil)
- Salt, pepper, and 1 tsp rice wine for egg seasoning.
- Optional add-ons: sliced avocado, spinach, or cooked bulgogi for variety.
Step-by-Step Egg Kimbab Recipe
- Make the egg crepe
Crack and whisk the eggs with salt, pepper, and a dash of rice wine.
Heat a lightly oiled pan, pour the mixture, forming a thick, even sheet. Cook gently on both sides until just set. Let cool, then slice into wide strips. - Prep veggies & fillings
Julienne cucumber and carrot. Drain tuna and mix with a pinch of salt or light Greek yogurt for creamy texture. - Assemble the roll
Lay one seaweed sheet shiny side down. Place a strip of egg crepe on the bottom half. Layer cucumber, carrot, pickled radish, and tuna (or your chosen filling) above it. Roll tightly using a bamboo mat or plate. - Seal & slice
Dab the top edge with a bit of water or sesame oil to seal. Brush the roll lightly with sesame oil, sprinkle with sesame seeds, then slice into bite-sized pieces. - Serve immediately
Best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture.
Variations to Try for Kimbab
- Cabbage Egg Kimbap
Replace seaweed with cabbage leaves—blanched and used like a wrap—for even lower carbs. - Cabbage & Tuna Roll
Use cabbage for rolling, fill with egg, tuna, carrots and spinach—rice-free and fiber-packed. - Bulgogi Egg Roll
Add cooked bulgogi beef or chicken for extra flavor, packed in those same egg strips for a hearty, protein-rich option. - Tuna Mayo Egg Roll
Mix drained tuna with Greek yogurt or mayo, garlic powder, and pepper—creamy and satisfying filling.
Health Benefits & Ingredient Insights
- Eggs: A complete protein source rich in B-vitamins, choline, and essential amino acids—key for muscle repair and satiety.
- Seaweed: Low-calorie, iodine-rich garnish supporting thyroid and metabolism.
- Veggies: Cucumber and carrot supply fiber, vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and hydration.
- Tuna/Protein: Adds lean protein and omega‑3 fatty acids for heart and brain health.
- Cabbage alternative: High in fiber, vitamin K, and manganese; helps digestion and fullness.
Global Cousins of Kimbap : Rolled Delights Around the World
Many cultures have their own version of rolled or wrapped meals, similar to Korea’s beloved kimbap. In Japan, the closest cousin is sushi rolls (makizushi), which also use rice and seaweed, but are usually filled with raw fish and seasoned with vinegar. China offers spring rolls or jianbing, both filled with vegetables and meats, but wrapped in thin dough or crepes. In Vietnam, gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls) use rice paper and are filled with shrimp, herbs, and noodles—light and refreshing. Mexico has burritos, where a flour tortilla wraps around rice, beans, vegetables, and meat, often served warm. Even in the Mediterranean, dolma—grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs—serve a similar concept of hand-held, portable, rice-filled bites. These dishes reflect how people around the world enjoy wrapping delicious ingredients into one convenient and tasty package, much like Korea’s nutritious and flavorful kimbap
Why You’ll Love the Korean Kimbab
This egg-heavy kimbap gives you all the flavor of traditional rolls—with fewer carbs and much more protein. It’s perfect for meal prep, convenient lunches, or family gatherings. With simple swaps like tuna, bulgogi, or cabbage, you can enjoy diverse flavors while staying on track with your diet.