- What Makes Bibim-guksu a Perfect Vegan Dish?
- 10-Minute Vegan Bibim-guksu Recipe
- Extra Flavor Tips, Toppings & Storage
When summer heat hits in Korea, Bibim-guksu becomes my go-to meal. It’s spicy, cold, incredibly refreshing, and takes almost no time to prepare. Since the sauce is naturally easy to veganize, I’ve been making this version for years—and it never fails. Let me show you my quick 10-minute method for restaurant-quality vegan Bibim-guksu!
What Makes Bibim-guksu a Perfect Vegan Dish?
Bibim-guksu is naturally easy to make vegan because the core flavors come from:
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Gochugaru (chili flakes)
- Soy sauce for savoriness
- Vinegar & sugar for a sharp, refreshing balance
- Thin wheat noodles (somyeon)
Traditional versions sometimes include boiled egg or fish sauce, but the dish tastes just as bold and delicious without them. I’ve served this vegan version to non-vegans many times—they never notice the difference!
🥬 Make It Complete: Vegan Kimchi (No Fish Sauce)10-Minute Vegan Bibim-guksu Recipe
Here’s my extremely simple vegan version—just boil, rinse, and mix!
Ingredients (1 serving)
- 100g somyeon (thin wheat noodles)
- 1 tbsp gochujang
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar or maple syrup
- 1 tsp gochugaru
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- Cucumber slices, lettuce, or kimchi for topping
Step 1. Cook noodles for 3–4 minutes, rinse in ice water, and drain well.
Step 2. Mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl.
Step 3. Combine noodles with sauce.
Step 4. Top with cucumber, lettuce, or vegan kimchi.
Step 5. Serve immediately while cold.
🍙 Perfect Pairing: 5 Vegan Kimbap Filling IdeasExtra Flavor Tips, Toppings & Storage
Here are some variations I often make depending on my mood:
- Add sesame seeds for nuttiness.
- Add crushed ice for an ultra-refreshing summer bowl.
- Mix in vegan kimchi for extra tang and heat.
- Use whole-wheat noodles for a healthier twist.
- Store leftover sauce for up to 1 week in the fridge.
FAQ
Q1. Are somyeon noodles vegan?
Yes—Korean wheat noodles are typically vegan with no egg added.
Q2. Can I make Bibim-guksu gluten-free?
Yes, use rice noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Q3. Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely—store it for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Q4. Why is my sauce too thick?
Add 1–2 tsp cold water and mix until smooth.
Q5. Can I make it less spicy?
Reduce gochugaru or add more vinegar and sugar for balance.
💬 If this recipe was helpful, tap the ❤️ and feel free to leave your questions in the comments!
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