Bibimbap Vegetarian Recipe Couple OfCooks Easy Guide

Updated On: October 7, 2025

Bibimbap is a vibrant and flavorful Korean dish that brings together a colorful mix of vegetables, rice, and a delicious sauce, all topped with a perfectly cooked egg. This vegetarian bibimbap recipe by Couple of Cooks offers a fresh, wholesome take on the traditional favorite, making it an ideal meal for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying and nutritious bowl.

The combination of textures and tastes—from the crisp sautéed vegetables to the creamy gochujang sauce—creates a harmony that’s both comforting and exciting.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to Korean cuisine, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Plus, it’s packed with plant-based ingredients that provide plenty of nutrients and flavor without relying on meat.

Ready to create your own vibrant bowl? Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how you can bring this Korean classic to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian bibimbap recipe is a celebration of fresh, wholesome ingredients combined in a way that is both visually stunning and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for those who want a meat-free meal without sacrificing flavor or texture.

The dish is highly customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite vegetables or protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.

Moreover, the recipe is designed for ease and efficiency, with straightforward instructions that guide you step-by-step. From prepping the vegetables to making the signature sauce, every element is crafted to ensure a balanced, flavorful bowl that will impress both your family and friends.

The end result is a nutritious, colorful, and delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (warm)
  • 1 cup spinach, blanched and squeezed
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 cup bean sprouts, blanched
  • 1 small zucchini, julienned
  • 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil
  • 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 4 eggs (optional for vegans)
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
  • Gochujang sauce:
    • 3 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
    • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 1 tablespoon water
    • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Medium pot for blanching vegetables
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • Rice cooker or pot for cooking rice
  • Small bowl for sauce mixing

Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Cook your rice according to package instructions, keeping it warm for serving.
  2. Blanch spinach and bean sprouts: Bring a pot of water to boil. Blanch the spinach for 30 seconds, then rinse with cold water and squeeze out excess moisture. Do the same for the bean sprouts, blanching for about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Sauté vegetables separately: Heat 1 teaspoon vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the julienned carrots with a pinch of salt until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside. Repeat for zucchini, mushrooms (add minced garlic here), and cucumber (no cooking needed for cucumber).
  4. Season vegetables: Toss each cooked vegetable batch with a small drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce to enhance flavor.
  5. Make gochujang sauce: In a small bowl, mix together gochujang, sesame oil, sugar, water, and rice vinegar until smooth and well combined.
  6. Cook eggs: In the same skillet, cook eggs sunny-side up or to your preference. This step is optional for those following a vegan diet.
  7. Assemble the bibimbap bowls: Place a generous scoop of warm rice into each bowl. Arrange the cooked spinach, carrots, bean sprouts, zucchini, mushrooms, and cucumber around the rice in sections for a colorful presentation.
  8. Add egg and sauce: Top each bowl with a cooked egg and drizzle with the prepared gochujang sauce. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top for garnish.
  9. Serve and mix: Encourage everyone to mix their bowl thoroughly before eating to enjoy the full flavor experience!

Tips & Variations

“Using fresh, seasonal vegetables can elevate your bibimbap to the next level. Feel free to substitute with bell peppers, kale, or even roasted sweet potatoes for a twist!”

  • Protein options: For added protein, include pan-fried tofu, tempeh, or cooked edamame.
  • Make it vegan: Omit the egg or replace it with a tofu scramble.
  • Sauce adjustments: Adjust the spiciness of the gochujang sauce by adding more sugar or water if you prefer a milder flavor.
  • Meal prep tip: Prepare all vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for quick assembly on busy days.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 14 g
Carbohydrates 65 g
Fat 12 g
Fiber 7 g
Sodium 850 mg

Serving Suggestions

Serve your vegetarian bibimbap with a side of kimchi or pickled radishes to add a tangy crunch. A light miso soup or seaweed salad can complement the meal beautifully, balancing the flavors and textures.

For dessert, consider trying the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for a sweet finish that contrasts nicely with the spicy bibimbap. Or, if you’re in the mood for something savory later, the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple pasta dishes.

Conclusion

This vegetarian bibimbap recipe from Couple of Cooks is a perfect way to explore the rich flavors of Korean cuisine in a plant-based way. The vibrant mix of sautéed vegetables, savory sauce, and comforting rice creates a bowl that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Its versatility makes it a great choice for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the busy week ahead.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite veggies or proteins to make this dish your own.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other favorites like the Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for your next culinary adventure!

📖 Recipe Card: Bibimbap Vegetarian Recipe Couple of Cooks

Description: A colorful and flavorful Korean rice bowl topped with assorted sautéed vegetables and spicy gochujang sauce. Perfect for a wholesome vegetarian meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT50M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked short-grain rice
  • 1 cup spinach, blanched and squeezed
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1 zucchini, julienned
  • 1 cup bean sprouts, blanched
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 teaspoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

  1. Cook rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
  2. Sauté garlic in vegetable oil, then cook carrots, zucchini, and mushrooms separately until tender.
  3. Season spinach and bean sprouts with soy sauce and sesame oil.
  4. Divide rice among bowls and arrange sautéed vegetables and spinach, bean sprouts on top.
  5. Add a spoonful of gochujang on each bowl.
  6. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and drizzle with sesame oil before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 65 g

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Marta K

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