Bold, spicy, crunchy, and irresistibly fresh — Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad is the kind of recipe that turns simple leftover rice into a restaurant-worthy dish. With crispy rice coated in savory gochujang sauce, vibrant vegetables, and refreshing herbs, this salad delivers texture and flavor in every bite. Whether served as a main dish or a standout side, it’s a modern comfort recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients for Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad
For the Crispy Gochujang Rice
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3 cups cooked rice (day-old rice works best)
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil or neutral cooking oil
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2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
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1 teaspoon sesame oil
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1 teaspoon rice vinegar
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1 clove garlic, finely minced
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika or chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
For the Salad Base
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2 cups shredded lettuce or mixed greens
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1 cup shredded red cabbage
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½ cup cucumber, thinly sliced
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½ small red onion, thinly sliced
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1 small green chili or jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)
Fresh Herbs & Toppings
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¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves
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2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
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1 tablespoon sesame seeds (white or black)
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Lime wedges, for serving
Optional Add-Ins (Protein or Extras)
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Crispy tofu cubes
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Grilled chicken or shrimp
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Fried egg or soft-boiled egg
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Avocado slices
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Roasted peanuts or cashews
Required Kitchen Tools
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Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
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Mixing bowls (medium and large)
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Small whisk or spoon (for sauce)
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Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
1: Prepare the Gochujang Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and smoked paprika. Mix until smooth and glossy. Set aside.
2: Crisp the Rice
Heat vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cooked rice and spread it into an even layer.
Let the rice cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until the bottom becomes golden and crispy. Stir gently, then press it down again. Repeat this process for about 8–10 minutes total until most of the rice is crisp.
3: Glaze with Gochujang
Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the prepared gochujang sauce over the crispy rice. Stir carefully so the rice stays crunchy while becoming evenly coated. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant and caramelized. Remove from heat.
4: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine lettuce, red cabbage, cucumber, red onion, and chili (if using). Toss lightly to distribute colors and textures.
5: Assemble the Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad
Spoon the warm crispy gochujang rice over the fresh salad base. Top with cilantro, green onions, sesame seeds, and any optional add-ins you prefer.
6: Serve
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately while the rice is still warm and crunchy.
Helpful Tips for the Best Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad
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Use cold rice: Day-old refrigerated rice crisps better and won’t turn mushy.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan: Crisp the rice in batches if needed.
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Control the heat: Gochujang is spicy — adjust the amount based on your preference.
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Texture balance: Pair crunchy rice with juicy vegetables for the best contrast.
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Meal prep tip: Store rice and salad separately and assemble just before serving.
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Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of honey and add tofu or avocado.
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Extra crunch: Sprinkle crushed peanuts or crispy onions on top.
Approximate Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
Values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.
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Calories: ~420 kcal
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Carbohydrates: ~55 g
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Protein: ~9 g
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Fat: ~16 g
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Fiber: ~6 g
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Sugar: ~7 g
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Sodium: ~780 mg
This Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad offers a satisfying balance of complex carbs, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making it both nourishing and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad
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Explosive umami flavor with crispy texture
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Easy way to transform leftover rice
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Customizable with endless toppings
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Perfect as a main dish or side
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Trendy, vibrant, and highly shareable
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a bold, modern recipe that delivers crunch, spice, and freshness all in one bowl, Crispy Gochujang Rice Salad is the answer. It’s quick to prepare, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress anyone who tries it. Whether for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a creative lunch, this salad proves that rice can be exciting again.
