Having trouble knowing what to serve with kimchi? This is the place for you! Here, you’ll find a variety of flavorful and spicy Korean side dishes with kimchi. Ensure the perfect accompaniments to complete your meal. A variety of cooked dishes can also be prepared with kimchi, from tacos to fried rice.
Here is what you should know about kimchi and how to eat kimchi as well. Plus, examine some of the best side dishes to eat with kimchi.
What is Kimchi?
Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish and a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine. It is made from fermented vegetables, primarily napa cabbage and infused with a blend of spices. Besides, preparation methods include seasoning, salting, and leaving the vegetables to ferment. This Korean food processing takes anywhere from 1 day to two weeks of seasoning infusion with a blend of spices.
It is not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse that is packaged with several health benefits. It can even help regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation and prevent certain types of cancer. This can help make kimchi perfect to serve with other dishes.
How was Kimchi traditionally made?
For making kimchi traditionally, there are lots of recipes you can find on the internet. Generally, the process is very simple but takes more time. For example, you will need around 6 to 8 hours and a few days to accommodate fermentation. However, if you want to make kimchi, follow the steps we described below:
- “First, cut the vegetables are small pieces and soak in salt water. This can help draw out moisture.”
- Then rinse and drain them. Other ingredients like fish sauce, garlic, and Korean red chilli pepper can be used to make a flavorful paste that spreads on the vegetables.
- Now pack this mixture into a sterile container and close it.
- Next, leave the mixture for 1 to 2 days at room temperature.
- If the room temperature is very high, it is better to leave it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
- After the fermentation process is complete, store the kimchi in the fridge.
What To Serve With Kimchi?
A few good ways to eat kimchi or side dishes include boiled dumplings, fried shrimp, boiled white rice, potstickers, Korean pancakes, crispy tofu, japchae, fried chicken, noodles, bibimbap, beef and broccoli.
In the next section, we will provide a detailed guide on how to pair kimchi with other dishes.
Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice is one of the most popular dishes and has gained popularity recently. Due to its easy-to-make process and delicious taste, every person is given a chance at this tasty dish. To create a delightful flavour and texture combo, this meal combines the tangy, spicy goodness of kimchi with the comforting and satisfying texture of fried rice.
Beef & Broccoli
A classic Asian-inspired dish that complements the flavours of the Korean delicious dish kimchi is beef and broccoli. A zesty sauce is stir-fried with tender beef and crisp broccoli. This can help to create a satisfying and delicious appetizer. In addition, the contrast of flavours and textures complements the strong flavor of kimchi well.
Steamed Dumplings
Another delightful dish that pairs perfectly with kimchi is boiled dumplings. A variety of ingredients, like shrimp, vegetables and the bold taste of kimchi, make for a delicious combination.
Fried Shrimp
Fried shrimp is a dish that goes great with kimchi. This is because crispy shrimp offer a different texture and flavour that contrast nicely with this spicy and tangy Korean dish. For an extra burst of flavour, both are served with a dipping sauce such as sweet chilli or soy sauce.
Egg Roll In a Bowl
Egg rolls in a bowl are a unique side dish you can serve with kimchi that’s a deconstructed version of a traditional egg roll. It consists of cabbage, ground meat, other vegetables and kimchi in a flavorful sauce. In addition to their piquant taste, both have a crunchy texture that consumers love.
Crispy Tofu
Tofu kimchi is a popular appetizer and healthy dish that complements the strong flavours. In Korea, it is also called a drink snack. You can serve it steamed, stir-fried with your favourite vegetables, or pan-fried for a subtle taste and smooth texture. Additionally, for those who are looking for a lighter option, it is a great choice.
Korean Pancakes
Pajeon or Korean pancakes, are a tasty dish that is served with kimchi. There’s nothing quite like these savoury pancakes with a crispy exterior and a soft interior. The main ingredients of this dish are a mixture of flour, eggs, and vegetables, which are then dipped in a tangy soy sauce.
Rice Sushi Bites
These crispy rice sushi bites feature creamy, spicy tuna or salmon, making them so flavorful. You can cook the crispy rice with kimchi in the air fryer and top with all your favourite toppings. All of them make this dish a perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Yaki Udon
A perfect Japanese-inspired dish is yaki udon, which is best for weeknight dinners and goes well with kimchi. With a variety of stir-fried vegetables and bouncy udon noodles tossed in a homemade stir-fry sauce, you can cook this satisfying meal in only 20 minutes.
Korean BBQ Ribs
BBQ ribs, or galbi, are one of the most mouthwatering dishes that you can serve with kimchi. These tender marinated ribs are grilled to boast a sweet and zesty taste. Furthermore, this delicious combination is a great way to make a special meal.
What are the methods for storing kimchi?
For maintaining flavour and texture, storing kimchi is vital. However, it should be stored at the right temperature to preserve its freshness. Besides, it can help slow down fermentation. With an ideal temperature between 0-4°C refrigeration is essential. Because it keeps the kimchi from fermenting too quickly and developing overly sour flavours.
In addition, to avoid flavour contamination, it is suggested that kimchi be kept away from strong-smelling foods like garlic and green onions. Furthermore, airtight containers are recommended to prevent odour transfer and keep the kimchi fresh.
In Conclusion
I think you can get your answer in this guide! However, when considering what to serve with kimchi, think about well-balanced and complementing flavours. Therefore, if you want to create fusion dishes, kimchi’s bold flavours can enhance a variety of culinary experiences!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kimchi be used in non-traditional recipes?
Yes, It can be used in non-traditional dishes because it has a strong, tangy flavor and is a flexible ingredient. For example, you can serve kimchi with non-traditional recipes such as tacos, quesadillas, pizza and grilled cheese sandwiches.
How do I eat kimchi?
Generally, kimchi can be consumed as an accompaniment, an ingredient in other dishes, or on its own. The tangy and spicy flavour is an excellent complement to savoury foods and is often paired with rice dishes to add contrast to a meal.
Is kimchi good for health?
Absolutely! Kimchi is full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals, which can help reduce serious health conditions such as stroke, diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Besides, it is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K and more.
Does the keto diet work well with kimchi?
Yes, it is suitable for a keto diet. This Korean dish is low in carbs. However, if you are on a keto diet, experts suggest fermented foods that contain low carbs, such as kimchi. Additionally, it can help keep your gut healthy.
What does kimchi taste like?
The taste of kimchi is usually spicy, sour, and savory. Overall, the taste profile of kimchi is determined by the ingredients and supplements it contains.
Where can you buy kimchi?
In most major grocery stores, the refrigerator section is where you can usually find kimchi. Otherwise, you can find different types of kimchi in Asian markets.
Which is the most popular kimchi?
Baechu is one of the most popular kimchis in Korea. This is made with salted and rinsed cabbages that have had their leaves packed with a blend of Asian chives, fish sauce, garlic, onion, and hot red pepper flakes.