Chef Roy Choi’s Kimchi Fried Rice is the best way to reinvigorate day-old rice with spicy, potent kimchi. The kimchi actually sweetens when heated and adds not only its signature funk, tang, and spice but also a delicious crunch. The briny, spicy dipping sauce is the perfect punchy accompaniment.
SPICY SHRIMP-AND-SESAME SAUCE
1 cup salted dried baby shrimp (about 1 ounce), rinsed
1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
1 large jalapeño, stemmed and finely chopped
2 tablespoons finely chopped garlic
4 teaspoons gochugaru
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
FRIED RICE
3 tablespoons canola oil
3 1/2 cups cooled cooked short-grain rice (day-old rice is best)
1 cup chopped kimchi (about 6 ounces)
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Stir together all sauce ingredients in a medium bowl. Set aside.
Heat oil in a large skillet over high until shimmering. Add rice to hot oil, and spread in an even layer. Cook, without stirring, until rice is crispy and a light golden brown, about 4 minutes. Stir in kimchi, broth, and 3 tablespoons sauce. Cook, stirring often, until crispy, about 3 minutes. Add butter, and stir until melted. Remove from heat. Divide rice mixture between 2 bowls, and serve with remaining sauce.
