Exploring Wild Brine Kimchi
Kimchi is a traditional fermented Korean side dish made from napa cabbage, radish, scallions and a blend of spices. This fiery, funky, crunchy food is packed with health benefits thanks to the live active cultures that form during the fermentation process. Wild Brine is a popular kimchi brand that offers a tasty authentic product.
What Makes Wild Brine Kimchi Special?
There are many mass-produced kimchi brands sold in grocery stores today that cut corners, skimp on ingredients and use artificial preservatives during production. But artisanal companies like Wildbrine still follow traditional methods.
Key characteristics that set Wild Brine kimchi apart include:
- Hand-made in small batches
- Uses organic, non-GMO vegetables
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- Gluten-free and vegan
- Aged for maximum flavor and health benefits
Wild Brine's Fermentation Process
The magic of kimchi lies in its extended fermentation time. Wild Brine kimchi undergoes a 60-day cold storage fermenting and maturing process. This extended culturing period allows the native microbes and bacteria to proliferate, resulting in a very sour, funky and pungent flavor.
The ferment also packs the final product with millions of gut-healthy probiotics, enzymes and organic acids with amazing health benefits.
Nutritional Benefits of Wild Brine Kimchi
All types of freshly fermented kimchi provide an array of vitamins, minerals and active compounds that support overall health:
- Probiotics: Billions of good bacteria for gut and digestive health
- Fiber: For regularity and heart health
- Vitamin K: Boosts bone density and heart health
- Vitamin C: Immune booster with antioxidant effects
- Iron: Oxygenates cells and prevents anemia
- Capascin: Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects
Weight Loss Benefits
The fiber, healthy fats and probiotics in kimchi promote feelings of fullness. This may prevent overeating and assist weight loss efforts. The spicy capsacin may also boost metabolism.
Gut Health Support
Wild brine kimchi is packed with Lactobacillus bacteria strains that enhance digestion, improve gut barrier function, decrease bloating/gas and support overall microbiome diversity.
Cancer Fighting Properties
Compounds in kimchi display anti-cancer effects. Fermented cabbage contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that fight cell damage. The probiotics and prebiotics also limit inflammation, a precursor to cancer development.
How to Enjoy Wild Brine Kimchi
Part of kimchis appeal is its extreme versatility. Here are some tasty ways to eat Wild Brine kimchi:
On its Own
Enjoy kimchi straight out of the jar as a probiotic-packed side dish, dip or snack. The intense sour flavors make an invigorating accompaniment to any meal.
In Soups and Stews
Add some tang and spice to hearty winter soups and stews by mixing in a few spoonfuls of Wild Brine kimchi.
With Rice or Noodles
A classic combo enjoyed across Korea is kimchi fried rice or noodles (japchae). The sweet and sour pickle pairs perfectly with the mild white rice or slippery sweet potato starch noodles.
As a Sandwich Topping
Piled high on sandwiches and wraps, kimchi makes an excellent flavorful, crunchy topping. Try it on turkey, roasted veggies, grilled cheese and more. The possibilities are endless.
Baked or Grilled
Grilling or baking kimchi concentrates its flavors and caramelizes the exterior for a delightful texture contrast. Grill up some kimchi nachos or flatbread pizza for your next game day appetizer.
Selecting the Best Wild Brine Kimchi
Wild Brine makes several excellent kimchi varieties. Here is an overview of some top options:
Napa Cabbage Kimchi
Their classic Napa cabbage kimchi features crisp, brined cabbage blended with Korean pear, radish and leeks. It delivers the perfect balance of sour and spicy.
Vegan Kimchi
The vegan kimchi contains the same great OG flavor but is made without any fish sauce, so its vegetarian and vegan friendly.
Spicy Sesame Kimchi
For those who like the heat turned up, the spicy sesame kimchi packs some serious firepower along with nutty sesame undertones.
Green Onion Kimchi
This lighter bodied variety highlights fresh, grassy green onions and jalapeno rather than cabbage as the base.
Storing Kimchi Correctly
To maintain safety and quality, be sure to store Wild Brine kimchi properly:
- Keep refrigerated at all times, do not leave at room temp more than 2 hours
- Store jars upside down to keep kimchi submerged under liquid
- Consume within 3-6 months of opening for best flavor and live cultures
- Never put old kimchi in new jars, always use clean utensils
Safety Precautions
Kimchi is loaded with healthy probiotics, but the ferment can allow harmful bacteria to grow if not handled properly. Exercise caution by:
- Avoiding kimchi past expiration or if mold, foam or odd smells develop
- Keeping kimchi separate from other foods in fridge
- Using clean tools and washing hands after handling
- Reheating fully if adding to cooked dishes
Certain people like pregnant women or those with underlying health issues may also wish to moderate their kimchi intake.
The Bottom Line on Wild Brine Kimchi
With its delightfully sour taste and outstanding nutritional profile, Wild Brine kimchi makes a fabulous functional food to incorporate into your diet. Their commitment to traditional methods ensures you get an authentic artisanal kimchi product packed with flavor and health benefits. Add their Napa cabbage, spicy sesame or vegan kimchi to your next meal to turn up the flavor factor!
FAQs
Is Wild Brine kimchi raw or pasteurized?
Wild Brine kimchi is an unpasteurized raw product. It undergoes a natural lactic acid fermentation process at cool temperatures for over 60 days. This extended culturing period produces the sour flavor, crispy texture and probiotics that make their kimchi so delicious and good for you.
Where can I buy Wild Brine kimchi?
You can purchase Wild Brine Kimchi online in their webstore for shipping across the U.S. or find a local retailer near your zip code. Wild Brine kimchi is currently stocked in stores like Sprouts Farmers Market, Wegmans, Kroger, Whole Foods and more across 30 states.
Does Wild Brine kimchi need to be refrigerated?
Yes, keeping Wild Brine kimchi refrigerated at all times is essential for maintaining quality and safety. The active lactic acid cultures will continue fermenting at room temperature and can sour quickly. For long term storage, freezing is also an option.
Can you eat Wild Brine kimchi straight from the jar?
Absolutely! In fact, enjoying Wild Brine kimchi as a probiotic-packed side dish straight from the jar is half the fun. You can use a fork or your fingers to pick up crunchy pieces, mixing the briny seasoning into every bite. Just be sure to keep the jar refrigerated between uses.
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.
Add Comment