Though bibimbap has remained a long-loved culinary staple among South Koreans for generations, the rest of the world has only recently begun to take note of this tasty dish. The colorful meal contains a host of delicious, healthy ingredients including egg, zucchini, bean sprouts, carrot, nori, and protein like thinly sliced beef, marinated spicy pork, or tofu. Before heading to your local Korean restaurant to try the dish, you should learn about three excellent health benefits of bibimbap.

What Are the Health Benefits of Bibimbap?

1. Nutrient-Rich

Nutritionists recommend ‘eating the rainbow’ to maintain a well-rounded diet, and bibimbap’s rainbow hues will help you do just that. For starters, the dish often contains a sizable portion of Vitamin A-rich carrots, which promote healthy eyes, skin, bones, and digestive function. It also typically contains egg, which experts have dubbed a ‘superfood’ because it’s protein-rich and chock full of Vitamin B2, Vitamin B12, and Vitamin E. Bibimbap also frequently contains nori, or dried seaweed, which is full of dietary fiber, essential amino acids, and vitamins A, B, C, and E. Top off the dish with cucumbers, zucchini, shiitake, and bean sprouts, and you will consume a rainbow of nutrients in just one dish.

2. Well-Rounded

Whether you enjoy bibimbap for lunch or dinner, the Korean dish contains the variety of nutrients you need to make it through your day. Whether you select tofu or thinly sliced beef, the dish has the protein you need to stay satiated. Thanks to the rice, you’ll consume the carbohydrates necessary for a major boost of energy. Served alongside heaping helpings of vegetables, bibimbap ensures you enjoy the daily dose of dietary fiber your body needs for digestive function.

3. Supports a Healthy Weight

Bibimbap is a low-fat option that supports a healthy weight. Although it contains carbohydrates, research shows people exhibit a lower glycemic response to the dish compared to Western dishes that pack the same carbohydrate count. Eating food with a lower glycemic index diminishes blood sugar spikes that can lead to weight gain, poor heart health, and cardiovascular disease. As a heart-healthy, versatile, and filling dish, people can enjoy bibimbap each day, guilt-free.

Try bibimbap for yourself at Oahu, Hawaii’s favorite new Korean cuisine spot. Topped in Honolulu offers handcrafted, authentic dishes based on long-loved Korean recipes locals adore. The culinary professionals are particularly known for their delightful, gochujang sauce-topped bibimbap creations, which feature ingredients like kalbi, bulgogi, or shoyu chicken. To check out the menu, visit the local restaurant online. Call today at (808) 369-1991 to place an order for takeout or to make a reservation.