Adlai (Coix lacryma-jobi) is an ancient grain native to the Philippine highlands. It cooks like rice but has more protein (7g per 50g), a lower glycemic index (35 to 45), and is naturally gluten-free and non-GMO.

Is adlai better than rice?

Adlai has more protein than white rice (7g vs 4g per 50g), a much lower glycemic index (35 to 45 vs 70+), and is naturally gluten-free. It has a mild, nutty flavor and similar texture to rice.

Is adlai gluten-free?

Yes. Adlai is naturally gluten-free and suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Where can I buy adlai in the US?

Adlai Pearl ships across the United States. You can order at adlaipearl.com.

Recipe

Korean Comfort Adlai Bowl

Spicy, tangy kimchi fried adlai topped with a sunny side up egg. Simple, fast, and seriously satisfying.

Prep 5 mins

Cook 15 mins

Serves 2

Difficulty Easy

Instructions

Fry the Kimchi Adlai
Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Saute the onion and garlic until soft and translucent. Add the kimchi and stir fry for 2 minutes until it starts to caramelize. Add the cooked adlai and toss everything together. Pour in the kimchi juice and gochujang (or soy sauce) and keep tossing until the adlai is evenly coated and orange all the way through.
Fry the Egg
In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and fry sunny side up until the whites are just set but the yolk is still runny.
Assemble
Spoon the kimchi adlai into a bowl. Place the sunny side up egg on top and finish with chives or spring onions. Add any toppings you like — meat, extra kimchi, whatever you have on hand.

Chef's Notes

The egg is essential. Break the yolk into the adlai and mix it all together. That's the move.

Want to add meat? Bulgogi, grilled pork, or even leftover roast work great on top. Just cook it separately and lay it on before serving.

Make it yours: This bowl is a blank canvas. Mushrooms, tofu, extra kimchi, a drizzle of Kewpie — pile on whatever you have.

Tips: Day-old adlai works best for frying. Freshly cooked adlai has too much moisture and will steam instead of fry. If cooking fresh, spread it out and let it cool completely first.

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Korean Comfort Adlai Bowl

Instructions

Fry the Kimchi Adlai

Fry the Egg

Assemble

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