If you’re a fan of Korean food, then you’ve most likely tasted kimchi – a spicy and tangy side dish made of fermented cabbage, radish, or cucumber.
Kimchi is not only delicious, but it also comes with a list of health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting your immune system.
But did you know that you can pair kimchi with other types of foods to make your meal even more flavorful and exciting? Here are 28 foods to eat with kimchi that you should try as soon as possible.
Kimchi is a versatile food that can be eaten on its own or with a variety of other dishes. Here are some ideas for what to eat with kimchi:
- Rice: Kimchi is a classic side dish to rice. You can simply serve it on top of your rice or mix it in.
- Soups and stews: Kimchi can be added to soups and stews for a boost of flavor and nutrition. Try adding it to kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew), tteokguk (Korean rice cake soup), or miso soup.
- Stir-fries: Kimchi is a great addition to stir-fries. It adds a bit of spice and crunch. Try adding it to a stir-fry with pork belly, tofu, or vegetables.
- Noodles: Kimchi can be added to noodle dishes such as ramen, udon noodles, and soba noodles.
- Sandwiches and wraps: Kimchi can be used as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. It adds a bit of acidity and crunch. Try using it on a grilled cheese sandwich, a Korean-inspired taco, or a lettuce wrap.
- Eggs: Kimchi can be added to eggs for a flavorful and healthy breakfast. Try scrambling it with eggs, adding it to an omelet, or topping your fried eggs with kimchi.
28 Delicious Foods to Try with Kimchi
Here are some specific dish ideas:
1. Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi and rice are the perfect companions. Mix your kimchi into your steaming hot rice for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
2. Kimchi Noodle Soup
Create a simple kimchi noodle soup by tossing cooked noodles into your hot and sour kimchi broth. Add a few slices of tofu or chicken, and you’re good to go.
3. Kimchi Eggs
Whether you’re making an omelet, scrambled eggs, or boiled eggs, kimchi adds a zing of flavor and texture.
4. Kimchi Tacos
Add a spoonful of kimchi to your tacos for a unique and daring twist. Kimchi pairs well with any protein such as chicken, pork, or fish.
5. Kimchi Sandwiches
Add a few slices of kimchi to your sandwich for an extra crunch and burst of tanginess.
6. Korean-Style Kimchi Burgers
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Korean-style burger with kimchi on top. You won’t regret it.
7. Kimchi Pizza
Yes, you read that right. Kimchi pizza is a popular Korean dish that blends the flavors of spicy kimchi with melted cheese and your choice of toppings.
8. Kimchi Grilled Cheese
Upgrade your grilled cheese sandwich by adding kimchi. The melted cheese and kimchi combination is pretty amazing.
9. Kimchi Carbonara
Kimchi carbonara is a delicious fusion dish that combines the creamy richness of traditional Italian carbonara with the tangy, spicy flavors of Korean kimchi.
It’s a truly unique and flavorful dish that is sure to please both pasta and kimchi lovers alike!
10. Kimchi Ramen
Add extra flavor to your ramen noodles with kimchi. You can also add kimchi to the broth itself for an added kick.
11. Kimchi Wraps
Instead of using lettuce as a wrap, use a cabbage kimchi leaf as a substitute and add your favorite fillings.
12. Kimchi Stir Fry
Your stir fry can be elevated with a few spoonfuls of kimchi for a unique and flavorful dish.
13. Kimchi Hot Dogs
Add some spice to your hot dogs by topping it with sautéed kimchi and melted cheese.
14. Kimchi Dumplings
Kimchi dumplings are a popular Korean appetizer that’s stuffed with a kimchi filling. These are sure to be a hit at your next party.
15. Kimchi Quesadillas
Mix things up by adding a few slices of kimchi in your quesadilla.
16. Chicken Kimchi Stir Fry
This quick and easy stir-fry recipe combines the spicy and tangy flavors of kimchi with tender chicken for a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch.
17. Savory Kimchi Oats
Instead of adding sweet toppings to your oats, try a savory version by adding kimchi and a fried egg on top.
18. Kimchi Gimbap
Similar to sushi, gimbap is a Korean dish that is filled with rice and various fillings, including kimchi.
19. Crispy Kimchi Rice Fritters
Crispy Kimchi Rice Fritters are a delightful fusion of savory and spicy!
Leftover rice teams up with tangy kimchi and seasonings for a flavorful batter, pan-fried golden brown for a crispy exterior and a soft, comforting interior.
20. Kimchi Salad
Top your salad with kimchi for extra texture and flavor. The liquid from the kimchi can also act as a salad dressing.
21. Kimchi Mac and Cheese
Last but not least, kimchi mac and cheese is a unique fusion dish that combines the creaminess of mac and cheese with the spiciness of kimchi.
22. Kimchi Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with a savory blend of kimchi, ground pork (or tofu), and rice, baked until tender perfection.
23. Kimchi Stuffed Mushrooms
Mushrooms generously stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese and kimchi, baked to a creamy delight.
24. Kimchi Rice Balls
Sushi rice combined with tangy kimchi, shaped into bite-sized balls, and served with soy sauce for a delightful, portable snack.
25. Kimchi Avocado Toast
Elevate your avocado toast by spreading creamy avocado over toasted bread and topping it with spicy kimchi for a unique breakfast or snack.
26. Kimchi Slaw
A zesty twist on traditional coleslaw, featuring shredded cabbage, carrots, and kimchi, tossed in a spicy and tangy dressing.
27. Kimchi Queso Dip
A fusion of Korean and Mexican flavors, this queso dip combines melted cheese with the bold kick of kimchi, perfect for dipping tortilla chips or veggies.
28. Kimchi Fried Dumplings
Crispy dumplings filled with a delicious mixture of minced pork, kimchi, and aromatics, perfect for dipping in your favorite sauce.
Final Thoughts,
Kimchi is not only a tasty and healthy side dish to have with your Korean meals but it is also a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes.
From pizza to fried rice, numerous foods can be paired with kimchi to make an exciting and memorable meal.
So, go ahead and experiment with one of these 28 delicious foods- who knows, you might just discover a new favorite dish!
