What is Kimchi?
Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from napa cabbage and other vegetables that are lacto-fermented. The fermentation process gives kimchi several health benefits. It also results in a tangy, spicy, crunchy flavor that pairs well with many foods.
Kimchi Nutrition Facts
Kimchi is low in calories but packed with nutrition including:
- Probiotics: The fermentation process boosts gut-healthy probiotics like Lactobacillus
- Fiber
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
- Riboflavin
- Iron
- Calcium
The vegetable ingredients in kimchi also provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Kimchi Varieties
There are over 100 types of kimchi made with different main vegetable ingredients, seasonings, and preparation methods. Some common varieties include:
- Baechu kimchi: Made with napa cabbage
- ggakdugi: Diced radish kimchi
- Gat kimchi: Mustard leaf kimchi
- Bossam kimchi: Wrapped kimchi
What to Eat With Kimchi
From Asian noodle dishes to sandwiches to tacos and more, kimchi's versatility makes it delicious paired with tons of foods. Here are some of the best options for what to eat with kimchi.
Rice and Grains
Kimchi's salty, sour, spicy flavor profile perfectly complements rice and other grains. Enjoy it with:
- White or brown rice
- Fried rice or bibimbap
- Rice noodles or glass noodles
- Quinoa, barley, or farro
Noodles and Soup
The crunch of kimchi is right at home in slurpy noodle dishes and brothy Asian soups like:
- Ramen
- Udon noodle soup
- Pho
- Wonton or egg drop soup
- Hot and sour soup
Vegetables and Salads
Kimchi pairs well with other fresh, light veggies. Toss it in:
- Green salads
- Vegetable stir-fries
- Sauteed greens
- Coleslaw
Eggs and Tofu
The bite of kimchi beautifully cuts the richness of eggs and tofu in dishes like:
- Kimchi fried rice
- Kimchi egg pancakes
- Tofu soup with kimchi
- Kimchi omelet
Protein Foods
Kimchi works magic when paired with hearty proteins such as:
- Pork
- Beef
- Chicken
- Fish
- Tempeh
Think kimchi jigae (stew), bulgogi, bibimbap with meat, kimchi jjigae (tofu stew) or even kimchi cheeseburgers!
Dairy
Fermented kimchi uniquely complements creamy dairy foods like:
- Yogurt
- Cheese
- Butter
- Milk
- Creamy salad dressings
Consider kimchi mac and cheese, kimchi grilled cheese sandwiches, kimchi cottage cheese bowls or adding kimchi to yogurt parfaits.
Breads, Tacos and Sandwiches
Pile colorful, flavorful kimchi onto your favorite carbohydrates:
- Sandwiches
- Burgers
- Wraps
- Tacos
- Flatbreads
- Pizza
The options here are endless - get creative!
Tips for Cooking With Kimchi
Here are some top tips for incorporating kimchi into recipes:
- Start small - a little kimchi goes a long way flavor-wise.
- Add at the end of cooking to preserve the probiotics.
- Substitute kimchi pickle juice for vinegar in dressings or marinades.
- Puree into hot sauce or salsa.
- Saute into fried rice or stir fry.
Kimchi Storage and Handling
Follow these guidelines to keep kimchi fresh as long as possible:
- Unopened: Store unopened kimchi jars in the refrigerator up to 1 year.
- After opening: Transfer to a tightly sealed glass container, keep refrigerated and use within 2 weeks.
- Freezing: Freeze extra homemade or store-bought kimchi for up to 3 months.
Enjoying Kimchi
From Korean classics to creative fusion, kimchi's sweet tanginess jazzes up everything from noodle bowls to tacos. Experiment with adding it to different recipes, or just enjoy its signature flavor, crunch and nutritional benefits on its own!
FAQs
Is kimchi good on sandwiches?
Yes, kimchi's tangy crunch can take sandwiches to the next level. Try piling it onto burgers, subs, wraps, po' boys or your favorite sandwich fillings. Its flavor pairs especially well with meat and cheese.
What is the best soup to eat with kimchi?
Spicy, brothy Asian noodle soups like ramen, pho and udon are perfect for eating with kimchi. The kimchi adds extra spice and flavor contrast. Its crunch also pairs nicely with the soft noodles and vegetables.
Can I eat kimchi on its own?
Absolutely! Many Korean meals are accompanied by a side dish of kimchi served solo. You can eat kimchi plain, right out of the jar, as a probiotic-powered snack or tangy palate cleanser between bites of other dishes.
What proteins go well with kimchi?
Hearty proteins like pork, beef, chicken and fish all complement kimchi beautifully. The fermented spice of the kimchi balances and cuts through the richness. Try kimchi jiggae stews, bibimbap or lettuce wraps for delicious kimchi protein pairings.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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