If you love eggs, you will definitely love the omelette rice. For us, Malaysians, omelette rice isn’t exactly a new thing. Before Korean food became a trend in Malaysia, we were already accustomed to Nasi Pattaya – fried rice wrapped in an omelette and drizzled with tomato or chilli sauce. For the longest time, it was everyone’s favourite.
If you’ve had the Korean omelette rice before then, you will know that while it does have some similarity, it is very different in taste and flavour. One thing’s for sure, it is definitely a dish we will never get bored off.
What makes Korean Omelette Rice Unique?
The Korean Omelette rice, also known as the Korean Bapsang, is a dish that is actually inspired by the Japanese Omurice. There isn’t much difference between the Japanese Omurice and the Korean Bapsang except for the fact that the Korean Bapsang uses more straightforward ingredients. It is typically made using ground beef or pork meat along with vegetables typically used in fried rice like carrots and spring onions. The rice is fried with light soy sauce and ketchup before being tucked nicely in an omelette and served with a typical Korean condiment like Kimchi.
The History of Korean Omelette Rice
The recipe originally came from Japan, and it is said to have made its debut in the 1900s during the Meiji Era. The usage of eggs in dishes was an influence of Western culture. Still, the Japanese decided to improvise by adding rice to the mix. It is said to have first been served at Renga-tei, a Western-style restaurant in Ginza, Tokyo. The dish was created as a means to have something that could be quickly eaten with one hand while working in a busy kitchen. The dish became widely popular, and it started to spread to other Asian countries, including Korea.
However, it was only in the 70s that the Koreans began widely serving the Korean Bapsang in Western restaurants across the country. In the modern world, the Korean Bapsang is widely accepted as a fast food restaurant menu, and it is especially popular amongst children because of its tangy and sweet flavour but it gained more popularity after appearing in a popular Korean TV series called The Rooftop Prince.
Nutritional content of Omelette Rice
One of the reasons why Omelette Rice become popular in Korea is because of its simplicity and nutritional content that comes with it. Despite being accepted as fast food, it is still healthier compared to your typical burgers and fries.
The usage of eggs in the dish means it is an excellent source for protein and Omega-3, which is important for muscle building and tissue repairs. Rice is also widely accepted as Asia’s staple food for its ability to provide energy. The dish is also balanced out by the use of vegetables which provided a variety of nutrients essential for the body to function.
Where to get the Korean Omelette Rice in Malaysia
You can’t go wrong from having fried rice and omelette. If you’re craving for this amazing Korean dish, make your way to The Matjib Restaurant located in KL and get your hands on their Omelette Rice for only RM19.90. The dish also comes with a side of Kimchi and vegetable soup.
Similarly, make your way to I Love Topokki located at KL Gateway Mall and try their Omelette Rice for a price of RM27. If you’re not in the mood to head out, have your Omelette Rice delivered to you instead, via the foodpanda app.