What to Eat Kimchi With | Ideas & Recipes for Kimchi

Kimchi is more than just a delicious side dish to your favorite Korean meals; it has become a staple in many other cultures around the world. Kimchi is made from fermented vegetables and spices, resulting in an intense flavor that adds depth and complexity to any dish. Not only is kimchi incredibly healthy for you due its nutrient-rich ingredients, but it also offers a variety of ways you can enjoy it. From tacos to pasta salads, there’s something for everyone what to eat kimchi with! In this post, we’re going to explore some of our favorite recipes for how to eat kimchi—and trust us, they won’t let you down.

What Is Kimchi?

Before we dive into what to eat kimchi with, let’s first establish what it actually is. Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermenting cabbage, radish, and other vegetables with seasonings like chili powder, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. It’s a popular side dish in Korean cuisine and is often served alongside rice, soup, or meat dishes. Kimchi is also incredibly versatile, which means you can use it in a variety of dishes to add flavor and complexity.

Different Types Of Kimchi

Kimchi is a beloved food that has become increasingly popular worldwide due to its robust flavor and health benefits. While the most common type of kimchi is made from fermented cabbage or “baechu,” there are various other types of kimchi that differentiate in ingredients and preparation methods.

One type of kimchi is “kkakdugi,” which is made from cubed radish that is fermented with chili pepper flakes, garlic, and fish sauce. Another type of kimchi is “dongchimi,” which is served as a refreshing cold soup and is made by fermenting radish, pear, persimmon, ginger, garlic, and other seasonings in a brine.

“Baek kimchi,” which is made from unfermented, lightly-seasoned Napa cabbage, is a popular type of kimchi in the summer months due to its crisp and refreshing taste. Another type of kimchi is “oyster kimchi,” which includes oysters as the main ingredient and is a popular dish during the winter months in Korea.

Moreover, there are various regional variations of kimchi throughout Korea, such as “chonggak kimchi,” which is made from small, whole radishes, and “yeolmu kimchi,” which is made from young summer radishes.

Overall, the versatility of kimchi is what makes it such a beloved and popular food. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or use it as a flavorful ingredient in a variety of dishes, kimchi is undoubtedly a unique and healthy condiment that adds depth and complexity to any meal.

Benefits Of Eating Kimchi

Kimchi is not only delicious, but it is also incredibly healthy for you. This traditional Korean dish is loaded with healthy probiotics, vitamins, and minerals that can have a positive impact on your overall health.

One of the primary benefits of eating kimchi is that it contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can enhance your digestive health. Kimchi is made through a process called lacto-fermentation, which involves using lactic acid bacteria to break down the sugars in the vegetables. These bacteria produce beneficial compounds like lactic acid, acetic acid, and other organic acids that can help promote gut health and improve digestion.

What To Eat Kimchi With?

By itself 

What to eat kimchi with? Kimchi steals the spotlight with its tangy and delicious flavor. Served drained in a bowl with toothpicks, the vegetable mix is irresistible. Alternatively, indulge in a spoonful or use some crisps or crackers to scoop it up whenever the craving strikes. Don’t miss out on this mouth-watering treat.

Fried rice

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to enjoy kimchi in Korea, try making kimchi fried rice (kimchi bokkeumbap)! This mouth-watering dish combines rice with kimchi, adding meat and vegetables to create a variety of textures and a spicy, umami flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a satisfying meal that makes use of leftover rice and aged kimchi. Don’t forget to include the deliciously spicy kimchi juice to make your dish even more flavorful.

Kimchi stews

Kimchi stew, or kimchi soup (kimchi jjigae), is a beloved dish in Korea. The flavorful soup is made with tender pork, spicy kimchi, and smooth tofu that all blend together perfectly. The scent of this comforting soup will leave you feeling heavenly.

Pancakes and fritters

Turn up the heat with Kimchi! Spice up your pancakes and fritters by using aged kimchi from your fridge. Try the Korean favorite, Kimchi buchimgae or kimchi jeon, made with wheat flour and bold seasoning. Mix in sweet potato for a heartier meal. Craving a quick snack or side dish? Whip up some delicious spring onion and kimchi fitters in minutes. Top with a poached egg for a complete meal. Don’t let your kimchi go to waste, elevate your dishes with this flavorful and crunchy ingredient.

Tofu

Discover the spicy and nutty taste sensation of Korea’s beloved snack and side dish: Tofu Kimchi. This dish combines stir-fried kimchi with boiled tofu, offering crispy, crunchy textures and a delectable aroma of sesame oil and spice. Traditionally made with pork, but can be easily adapted for a vegetarian diet. Try it today and get a taste of the exotic.

Udon noodles 

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, try making kimchi udon! With a complex mix of delicious Korean flavors, including kimchi, gochujang, gochugaru, and sesame seeds, this dish will satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s packed with at least three of your daily veggies, including radish and spring onion.

But don’t stop there – why not try the unique flavor of kimchi ramen noodles? A favorite dish in Korea, these noodles combine tangy kimchi with savory ramen from Japan. And with Kelly Loves’ convenient cup packaging, you can enjoy this delicious meal at home or on the go. Don’t miss out on the flavors of Korean cuisine.

Kimchi dumplings 

Korean cuisine’s iconic dumplings, mandu or mandoo, are known for their versatility. Want some added kick? Try filling your dumplings with some kimchi! For a heartier meal, stuff them with minced beef, pork, or tofu. You have the option to steam your mandu “jjin mandu” style or fry them up “yaki mandu” or “gun mandu”. Let the deliciousness unfold in every bite.

Korean BBQ

Spice up your meals with BBQ lettuce wraps – the perfect pairing for kimchi! Indulge in the juicy and flavorful Korean favorite, pork belly, which is so loved that there’s even a Pork Belly Day on March 3rd. All you need to do is grill the pork belly, wrap it in crispy lettuce, and serve it with ssamjang dipping sauce alongside kimchi. Don’t miss out on this mouth-watering dish.

Eggs

Discover the ultimate meal solution – eggs! With a myriad of possibilities from scrambled, fried, and poached, there’s always a satisfying option. Looking for a healthy gut-friendly brunch? Try a delicious avocado and poached egg on toast with togarashi and spring onion seasoning. Add some kimchi on the side for a spicy twist. Feeling adventurous? Create your own recipe by experimenting with different egg/kimchi combinations. Never tried kimchi? No problem! It’s versatile enough to create subtle or strong flavors. Don’t miss out on this tasty opportunity.

Burger topping 

Transform your burger game with the perfect topping: kimchi. Think pickled gherkin or red cabbage, but better. For an extra flavor kick, mix kimchi with mayonnaise, sesame oil, and sugar, then brush your burgers with soy sauce. Get ready for tangy, mouthwatering perfection.

How To Make Your Own Kimchi?

If you’re looking to make your own kimchi, you’re in luck! While the fermenting process can seem intimidating, making kimchi at home is actually quite simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your very own batch of homemade kimchi:

1. Prepare your ingredients. The most common recipe for kimchi uses Napa cabbage, radishes, scallions, garlic, ginger, Korean chili flakes, fish sauce, and salt. However, you can adjust the recipe to suit your preferred taste.

2. Cut the cabbage and radishes into bite-sized pieces.

3. In a bowl, dissolve salt in water and soak the cabbage and radishes in the mixture for a few hours.

4. Rinse the vegetables thoroughly and drain excess water.

5. In a separate bowl, mix the chili flakes with a bit of water to create a paste.

6. Add the garlic, ginger, scallions, fish sauce, and any other desired seasonings to the chili paste.

7. Mix the vegetables and chili paste together thoroughly, ensuring that all the vegetables are coated.

8. Pack the kimchi mixture tightly into a jar, making sure that there are no air pockets.

9. Leave the jar in a cool, dark place to ferment for a few days. The length of time will vary depending on the temperature and humidity in your home, but most kimchi is ready to eat after 2-3 days.

10. Once the kimchi is fermented to your liking, store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

How To Serve Kimchi?

Kimchi is an incredibly versatile condiment that can be served with a variety of dishes. It is commonly served as a side dish in Korean cuisine and can be enjoyed alongside rice, soup, or meat dishes. Kimchi can also be used in a variety of other ways to add depth and complexity to meals.

One way to serve kimchi is by enjoying it on its own. Its tangy and delicious flavor makes it an irresistible snack or appetizer. It can be served drained in a bowl with toothpicks or scooped up with crisps or crackers.

How To Store Kimchi?

Proper storage of kimchi is crucial to maintain its flavor, texture, and health benefits. While kimchi is a fermented food that can last for several weeks or even months, it is essential to store it correctly to avoid spoilage and maintain freshness.

Firstly, it is recommended to store kimchi in an airtight container to prevent air exposure and moisture. Air exposure can accelerate the fermentation process and cause the kimchi to spoil quickly, while moisture can lead to mold growth. Therefore, using an airtight container will help preserve the kimchi’s flavor and texture.

Secondly, it is advisable to store kimchi in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. The cool temperature slows down the fermentation process and ensures the kimchi stays fresh for a more extended period. Kimchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months, depending on the level of fermentation and the recipe used.

Lastly, it is important to ensure proper hygiene when handling kimchi to avoid contamination. Always use clean, dry utensils and hands when handling kimchi to prevent the introduction of unwanted bacteria or other harmful microorganisms.

Conclusion: what to eat kimchi with

In conclusion, kimchi is a versatile and healthy condiment that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you use it as a side dish, add it to your favorite recipes, or enjoy it on its own, kimchi adds a unique and delicious flavor to any meal. With its numerous health benefits and delicious taste, kimchi is a must-try for anyone looking to explore Korean cuisine or add some exciting new flavors to their meals. So, don’t hesitate to give it a try and enjoy all the fantastic ways to eat kimchi.

FAQs: kimchi 

Is it better to eat kimchi hot or cold?

Get the most out of your kimchi by enjoying it cold! Not only will you reap the benefits of live cultures and nutrients, but you’ll also love our favorite cold kimchi recipe: Cold noodles with kimchi.

What do you eat with kimchi in a jar?

Spice up your meals and drinks with a punchy kimchi upgrade. From fried rice to cocktails, pancakes to braises, kimchi is a versatile ingredient that’ll add a new level of flavor to your creations. While it’s delicious straight from the jar or as a banchan side dish, it also excels as a key component in your cooking. So why not whip up a big batch and unleash the power of kimchi in your kitchen? Your taste buds will thank you.

Is it OK to eat kimchi everyday?

Discover the Perfect Frequency for Eating Kimchi. To maximize the benefits of this superfood, it’s crucial to consume a regular serving of probiotics and beneficial bacteria. To achieve that, experts recommend taking a daily dose of 100g of Kimchi. So what are you waiting for? Get started on your journey to better health and digestion with this delicious Korean dish.

Is kimchi a side dish or main dish?

Spice up your meals with Kimchi, a deliciously salty and spicy cabbage pickle that can serve as both a side dish and a condiment. Add it to your soups, rice, noodles, and more for an unforgettable burst of flavor.

How do Asians eat kimchi?

Kimchi is a staple in Asian cuisine, particularly Korean food. It is often served as a side dish accompanying rice or meat dishes. However, kimchi is also used in a wide range of dishes, such as stews, noodles, dumplings, pancakes, and even burgers! In fact, its versatility has led to kimchi being incorporated into cuisines beyond Asia, including fusion dishes and international cuisine.

Why do I feel better after eating kimchi?

Consuming kimchi can make you feel better due to its numerous health benefits. Kimchi contains healthy bacteria known as probiotics that aid in digestion and promote gut health. Probiotics in kimchi can help balance your gut microbiome and improve gut function overall. Additionally, kimchi is rich in essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium, which can boost your immune system, improve heart health, and aid in the prevention of chronic diseases.

Should I rinse kimchi before eating?

Attention, sodium watchers: you can still indulge in the delicious taste of kimchi! Just keep an eye on your portions. If you’re really strict, rinsing it in water is an option that reduces sodium and spice but preserves the flavor.

How long does a jar of kimchi last?

“Keep your kimchi fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months by storing it in the fridge. At room temperature, it will only last for a week after opening. Remember to refrigerate at 39°F (4°C) or lower to avoid spoilage and enjoy the full fermentation process that gives kimchi its sour taste.”

How soon should you eat kimchi?

Not only is kimchi delicious, but it also has numerous health benefits. Fermented for days or weeks, it can also be enjoyed fresh right after being prepared. Boost your health with this flavorful dish.