Gyeran Mari, or Korean rolled omelette, is a popular Korean side dish (banchan) that is simple to make and highly versatile. This dish is often enjoyed as part of a meal, in lunchboxes, or as a standalone snack. The beauty of Gyeran Mari lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it with various ingredients. With its soft texture and delightful flavor, Gyeran Mari is a dish that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Ingredients
To prepare Gyeran Mari, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional, for fluffier texture)
- 1 small carrot, finely chopped
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- A pinch of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Preparation and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the carrot, green onion, and onion. The smaller the pieces, the better they will integrate into the omelette.
Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture
- Beat the Eggs: In a bowl, crack the eggs and beat them thoroughly. Add the milk if you prefer a fluffier texture.
- Season the Eggs: Add salt and black pepper to the beaten eggs and mix well.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped carrot, green onion, and onion.
Step 3: Cook the Omelette
- Heat the Pan: Place a non-stick pan over medium-low heat and add the vegetable oil. Spread the oil evenly across the pan.
- Pour the Egg Mixture: Pour a thin layer of the egg mixture into the pan, just enough to cover the surface. Tilt the pan to spread the mixture evenly.
- Cook Slowly: Allow the egg to cook gently until the surface is just set but still slightly wet.
- Roll the Omelette: Start rolling the omelette from one side to the other using a spatula or chopsticks. Once you’ve rolled it halfway, push the omelette to the side of the pan and pour in another layer of the egg mixture.
- Repeat the Process: Continue this process, adding more egg mixture and rolling until all the mixture is used up.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
- Cook Through: Let the rolled omelette cook for a few more minutes to ensure it is cooked through. Turn it gently to get an even cook on all sides.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the omelette from the pan and let it cool slightly. Slice the rolled omelette into bite-sized pieces and serve warm.
Tips for Perfect Gyeran Mari
- Use a Non-Stick Pan: This helps prevent the egg from sticking and makes rolling easier.
- Cook on Low Heat: Cooking slowly over low heat ensures the omelette cooks evenly without burning.
- Add Milk for Fluffiness: A little milk in the egg mixture can make the omelette fluffier.
- Chop Vegetables Finely: Smaller pieces of vegetables blend better and make rolling easier.
Variations
Gyeran Mari can be customized with various ingredients to suit your taste:
- Cheese Gyeran Mari: Add shredded cheese to the egg mixture for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Seaweed Gyeran Mari: Incorporate finely chopped seaweed (gim) into the mixture for an umami boost.
- Ham and Cheese Gyeran Mari: Add small pieces of ham and cheese to make it more filling and savory.
- Vegetable Gyeran Mari: Experiment with other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini.
Calorie Information
A serving of Gyeran Mari (approximately 100 grams) contains about 120-150 calories, depending on the ingredients used. This dish is relatively low in calories and provides a good source of protein from the eggs.
Conclusion
Gyeran Mari is a delicious and versatile Korean rolled omelette that can be enjoyed in various ways. Its simplicity in preparation and the ability to customize with different ingredients make it a favorite in many households. Whether served as a side dish, a snack, or part of a lunchbox, Gyeran Mari is sure to delight with its soft texture and flavorful taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a taste of Korean cuisine in your home!
