Trader Joe’s Kimbap In The Air Fryer, No Microwave!

Craving sushi but short on time? Try this quick and easy Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Kimbap! No need for a microwave—this method delivers perfectly heated sushi with moist rice and crispy edges in just 5 minutes. Whether you’re craving a snack or need a simple lunch, the air fryer brings the flavors of your favorite frozen kimbap to life, making it a perfect sushi-on-demand solution!

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Kimbap

• Quick and Easy: With only 5 minutes in the air fryer, this recipe is perfect for when you’re short on time but still want a tasty meal or snack. You can go from craving sushi to eating it in less than 10 minutes!

• Perfect Texture: The air fryer helps keep the rice moist while giving the outside a light crisp. It’s a perfect balance between steamed and crispy—no soggy rice here!

• No Microwave Needed: Skip the microwave and get an even better result. The air fryer cooks the kimbap evenly without making the rice too chewy or dry.

• Frozen Convenience: Grab a package from Trader Joe’s, keep it in your freezer, and you’re always just minutes away from a sushi fix. It’s perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

• Vegetarian-Friendly: This recipe works for a variety of dietary preferences, making it a great snack or meal for everyone. Just make sure to check the ingredients in the kimbap!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Kimbap

• Trader Joe’s Frozen Kimbap – These pre-made sushi rolls are packed with flavorful ingredients, like rice, vegetables, and sometimes egg or protein, depending on the variety you choose. They’re frozen for convenience and easy to cook in the air fryer.

For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Kimbap

• Air Fryer – The essential tool for this recipe. It helps cook the kimbap evenly, keeping the rice moist while giving the outer edges a crispy texture.

• Knife – If your kimbap pieces are stuck together, a knife will help separate them gently.

• Tongs (optional) – For safely removing the kimbap from the air fryer once it’s done cooking.

How to Make Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Kimbap

• Open the package of frozen kimbap.

• Do not place the packaging in the air fryer.

• If the kimbap pieces are stuck together, carefully use a knife to separate them.

• Arrange the kimbap slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.

• Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes.

• Check one piece to ensure it’s fully heated inside. If needed, add an extra minute.

• Carefully remove from the air fryer and enjoy warm!

Serving Suggestions

• A small dish of soy sauce or tamari for dipping brings out the umami flavors of the kimbap.

• Add some pickled ginger on the side for a tangy, refreshing contrast to the warm kimbap.

• Sprinkle a little sesame seeds on top for added flavor and crunch.

• A light Asian cucumber salad with sesame dressing makes a great side to balance the richness of the kimbap.

• A warm bowl of dumpling soup pairs wonderfully with this sushi for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Arrange the kimbap slices in a single layer for the best results. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, and you might end up with some pieces not fully heated.

• Check for Warmth: If you’re new to cooking frozen kimbap in the air fryer, check one piece after 5 minutes to ensure it’s heated through. If the center is cold, simply air fry for another minute or so.

• Adjust Time for Different Air Fryers: Cooking times can vary depending on the brand and model of your air fryer. If you have a smaller air fryer, you may need to cook the kimbap in batches to ensure even cooking.

• No Preheating Needed: This recipe works best without preheating the air fryer, saving you extra time and making the process even more efficient.

• Experiment with Different Kimbap Flavors: Trader Joe’s offers several kimbap varieties—try them all! Whether you choose the classic vegetable-filled version or one with protein, the air fryer method works wonderfully for all.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use Other Frozen Sushi Brands: If you don’t have access to Trader Joe’s kimbap, you can try using other frozen sushi brands. Look for those with similar ingredients like rice and vegetables wrapped in seaweed.

• Add Protein: For an extra boost of protein, try adding your favorite cooked protein, such as grilled chicken or tofu, alongside the kimbap in the air fryer. You can even try using pieces of cooked salmon or shrimp for a more traditional sushi flavor.

• Vegan or Vegetarian Options: If you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian-friendly option, make sure to choose kimbap rolls with only vegetables, or swap out any non-vegan ingredients like eggs or fish for tofu or other plant-based fillings.

• Make it Spicy: For a spicy kick, add a drizzle of spicy mayo or a sprinkle of chili flakes over the cooked kimbap just before serving.

• Use Nori Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of nori (seaweed), try using a thin layer of rice paper instead. This will give the kimbap a different texture and flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: If you have leftover kimbap, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat it within 1-2 days for the freshest taste.

• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the kimbap back in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F. This will warm it up without making the rice dry or the edges too crispy.

• Freezing: You can freeze leftover kimbap if needed. To reheat from frozen, cook at 400°F for 6-7 minutes in the air fryer, checking for warmth in the center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh kimbap for this recipe?

While this recipe is designed for frozen kimbap, you can use fresh kimbap if you prefer. However, the air fryer is especially great for frozen versions, as it helps to heat them evenly without drying out the rice. If using fresh kimbap, you may need to adjust the cooking time, likely reducing it to 3-4 minutes.

How do I know if my kimbap is heated through?

After air frying for 5 minutes, check one piece by cutting it open. The rice should be warm and not cold in the center. If it’s not fully heated, simply return it to the air fryer for an extra minute or so.

Can I air fry multiple packages of kimbap at once?

You can air fry multiple packages of kimbap, but be careful not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. For the best results, ensure the pieces are arranged in a single layer. If needed, cook in batches to ensure each piece cooks evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the Trader Joe’s kimbap is typically vegetarian-friendly, but make sure to check the label to confirm the ingredients. If you’re using a different brand, look for a vegetable-only variety or swap out any animal-based ingredients for plant-based alternatives.

What should I serve with this kimbap?

Kimbap pairs wonderfully with soy sauce for dipping, pickled ginger, or even a side salad. It’s also a great snack on its own, or you can enjoy it with miso soup for a complete meal.

Other Easy Trader Joe’s Recipes

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Shawarma Chicken Thighs – Enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken thighs with perfectly crispy edges in just minutes using the air fryer and Trader Joe’s Shawarma seasoning.

Crispy Trader Joe’s Frozen Falafel in the Air Fryer – Achieve crispy, golden falafel with a deliciously tender center in under 10 minutes using your air fryer and Trader Joe’s frozen falafel.

Crispy Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Hashbrowns – Make perfectly crispy and golden hashbrowns in the air fryer with minimal effort—perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Trader Joe’s Frozen Kimbap – Quickly heat up Trader Joe’s frozen kimbap in the air fryer for sushi-like rolls with a crispy outside and moist, warm rice inside.

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Gyoza – Get crispy, restaurant-quality gyoza in just minutes using your air fryer and Trader Joe’s frozen gyoza.

Crispy Trader Joe’s Sweet Potato Fries in the Air Fryer – Make crispy, flavorful sweet potato fries in the air fryer with a perfectly seasoned golden crunch.

Air Fryer Trader Joe’s Bool Kogi – Enjoy tender, savory Korean BBQ beef in minutes using the air fryer and Trader Joe’s Bool Kogi marinade.

More Air Fryer Recipes

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• Air Fryer Frozen Turkey Pot Pie
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