If you’re a fan of Korean cuisine, you’ve likely encountered kimchi – a spicy and tangy fermented side dish made from cabbage, radish, or cucumber. Kimchi’s health benefits are well-documented, including its ability to aid digestion and boost the immune system. But what many people don’t know is that kimchi can be paired with a wide range of foods to elevate their flavor and excitement. In fact, there are numerous ways to enjoy kimchi beyond just eating it on its own. For instance, you can combine it with rice for a classic pairing, or use it as an added depth charge in soups and stews. Stir-fries also benefit from the spicy kick and crunchy texture kimchi brings, while noodles like ramen, udon, and soba become even more satisfying with its addition. And let’s not forget about sandwiches and wraps – kimchi can add a zesty, savory dimension to these humble dishes. Lastly, for breakfast, kimchi can be scrambled into eggs or used as a topping, providing a nutritious and flavorful start to the day.
21 Delicious Foods to Try with Kimchi
Kimchi Fried Rice
While kimchi is often enjoyed on its own as a spicy condiment, it also pairs beautifully with a humble bowl of steaming hot rice. In fact, combining these two staples can create a harmonious union that not only satisfies the taste buds but also provides a nutritious and filling meal. The bold flavors of the kimchi complement the neutral base of the rice perfectly, making for a delightful culinary experience.
Kimchi Noodle Soup
To elevate the humble kimchi noodle soup experience, simply combine cooked noodles with a rich and tangy kimchi broth. For added protein and flavor, introduce sliced tofu or chicken into the mix. This effortless combination yields a satisfying and comforting meal.
Kimchi Eggs
Kimchi brings a vibrant burst of flavor and satisfying crunch to any egg dish, whether you’re cooking up an omelet, scrambling some eggs, or serving soft-boiled eggs.
Kimchi Tacos
Elevate the flavor profile of your tacos by incorporating a bold and adventurous element – kimchi. This fermented Korean staple surprisingly complements a variety of proteins like chicken, pork, and fish, offering an intriguing twist that will leave you wanting more.
Kimchi Sandwiches
Elevate the humble sandwich by incorporating the bold flavors of kimchi. A few judiciously placed slices can add a satisfying textural contrast, courtesy of their crunchy bite, while also introducing a pungent yet harmonious tanginess that will leave you craving another bite.
Korean-Style Kimchi Burgers
For the more daring eaters, a Korean-style burger topped with spicy kimchi is an unforgettable experience. The sweet and sour flavors of the kimchi perfectly complement the savory patty, creating a truly unique culinary adventure.
Kimchi Pizza
In a surprising twist of culinary fusion, the spicy kick of kimchi meets the richness of melted cheese in a harmonious blend that’s become increasingly popular. This innovative Korean-inspired dish brings together the bold flavors of fermented kimchi, savory melted cheese, and your preferred toppings in a match made in heaven.
Kimchi Grilled Cheese
Elevate the humble grilled cheese sandwich by introducing a tangy twist: pairing it with spicy, fermented kimchi. The harmonious marriage of gooey cheese and bold kimchi creates an unforgettable flavor experience.
Kimchi Carbonara
Innovative fusion cuisine has given rise to the kimchi carbonara, a dish that harmoniously blends the velvety smoothness of Italian carbonara with the bold, spicy essence of Korean kimchi. This culinary marriage yields a truly one-of-a-kind flavor profile that is sure to captivate both pasta enthusiasts and kimchi aficionados.
Kimchi Ramen
Elevate your ramen noodle experience by infusing it with the bold, spicy essence of kimchi. Not only can you sprinkle this Korean condiment over your noodles for a burst of flavor, but you can also add it to the broth itself, creating an undeniably savory and tantalizing taste sensation.
Kimchi Wraps
For a twist on traditional wraps, consider swapping out the typical lettuce for a cabbage kimchi leaf. Not only does this provide a burst of flavor, but it also adds some much-needed crunch to your meal. Simply place your favorite fillings inside and you’re ready to go.
Kimchi Stir Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game by incorporating the bold, pungent flavor of kimchi into your dish. A few generous spoonfuls can transform a humble meal into an exciting culinary experience that will leave you craving more.
Kimchi Hot Dogs
Elevate the humble hot dog to new heights by incorporating a dash of Korean flair. The spicy kick from the sautéed kimchi pairs perfectly with the gooey richness of melted cheese, adding a delightful depth of flavor that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Kimchi Dumplings
Kimchi dumplings, a staple of Korean cuisine, boast a deliciously unexpected twist on traditional dumpling fillings. Rather than opting for the usual meats or vegetables, these bite-sized treats are packed with the bold, spicy flavor of kimchi. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, they’re sure to bring a burst of excitement and intrigue to any gathering.
Kimchi Quesadillas
To elevate the humble quesadilla, consider incorporating a bold and spicy element – like kimchi. The fermented Korean condiment adds a tangy, umami flavor that pairs surprisingly well with melted cheese and crispy tortillas. Simply add sliced kimchi to your quesadilla filling before cooking it in a pan.
Chicken Kimchi Stir Fry
A harmonious blend of spicy and tangy kimchi and tender chicken makes this quick stir-fry recipe an ideal choice for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxing weekend lunch. The combination of bold flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your culinary routine.
Savory Kimchi Oats
Experience the unexpected delight of transforming your oatmeal into a savory sensation by incorporating the bold flavors of kimchi and the rich texture of a perfectly cooked fried egg. The spicy kick from the fermented Korean staple pairs surprisingly well with the creamy, slightly crunchy egg, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you craving more.
Kimchi Gimbap
Gimbap, a quintessential Korean dish, shares an uncanny resemblance to its Japanese counterpart, sushi. Like sushi, gimbap is characterized by its core component of rice, carefully prepared to complement an assortment of fillings. A crucial distinction lies in the variety of ingredients used, with kimchi being one of the most notable additions.
Crispy Kimchi Rice Fritters
The harmonious union of crispy, golden-brown rice fritters infused with the bold flavors of kimchi is nothing short of delightful. A clever combination of leftover rice, pungent kimchi, and expertly chosen seasonings yields a mouthwatering batter, skillfully pan-fried to perfection, boasting a satisfying crunch on the outside and a soft, comforting core.
Kimchi Salad
Elevate your salad game by adding a spoonful of kimchi on top. Not only will you gain an added textural element, but the pungent liquid within the spicy Korean condiment can also double as a tangy salad dressing.
Kimchi Mac and Cheese
Kimchi mac and cheese, a dish unlike any other, harmoniously blends the rich, velvety texture of traditional macaroni and cheese with the bold, pungent kick of fermented Korean kimchi. This unexpected fusion of flavors not only tantalizes the taste buds but also showcases the versatility and creativity that can be achieved in modern cuisine.
Kimchi Stuffed Peppers
The essence of Korean cuisine meets the comfort of a familiar dish as bell peppers are stuffed with a harmonious mixture of spicy kimchi, ground pork (or its vegetarian alternative, tofu), and fluffy rice. This culinary fusion is then brought to life through a slow-baking process, resulting in tender perfection that will delight even the most discerning palates.
Kimchi Stuffed Mushrooms
Savoring the harmony between earthy mushrooms and rich culinary delights, this dish presents an unexpected yet tantalizing union: succulent mushroom caps generously stuffed with a vibrant blend of cream cheese and spicy kimchi. The contrasting textures and flavors meld together beautifully as they emerge from the oven, baked to a creamy perfection that will leave you craving more.
Kimchi Rice Balls
The harmonious union of sushi rice and tangy kimchi takes on a new form when crafted into bite-sized morsels, or ‘onigiri’, and paired with a drizzle of savory soy sauce. This unexpected fusion creates a delectable, easily transportable snack that will leave you wanting more.
Kimchi Avocado Toast
Transform your humble avocado toast into a flavor explosion by smearing rich, velvety avocado on crispy toasted bread and crowning it with the bold, spicy kick of kimchi. This unexpected combination makes for a memorable breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up.
Kimchi Slaw
Innovating on the classic coleslaw formula, this unique recipe combines the crunch of shredded cabbage and carrots with the bold, fermented flavor of kimchi. The dish is then elevated by a dressing that balances spicy and tangy notes, resulting in a refreshing twist on a traditional favorite.
Kimchi Queso Dip
In a harmonious blend of international flavors, this innovative queso dip brings together the creamy richness of melted cheese and the fiery essence of kimchi, creating an irresistible snack experience that’s equally at home paired with crunchy tortilla chips or crudités.
Kimchi Fried Dumplings
Kimchi’s spicy kick is perfectly balanced by the crispy dumpling wrapping, making it a match made in heaven. The harmony of flavors and textures is elevated even further when paired with your preferred dipping sauce. As we wrap up our exploration of kimchi’s culinary possibilities, let’s not forget its impressive versatility. This fermented Korean staple can be a game-changer when added to everything from pizza to fried rice, making it an integral component in the creation of memorable meals. So, feel free to get creative and combine kimchi with one of these 28 mouthwatering dishes – you never know, you might just stumble upon your new go-to recipe!