Kimchi is a staple of Korean cuisine, and has become increasingly popular around the world for its distinctive flavor and health benefits. It is made from fermented vegetables, typically cabbage, that has been seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs.
Making Kimchi is a very cut forward task. The opportunity to practice your knife skills abound with the vegetable ingredients. Here, we'll explore the history, ingredients, health benefits, and provide some sources to do further research.
Kimchi
Kimchi has a long history dating back to ancient times in Korea. It was originally a way to preserve vegetables through the long winter months when fresh produce was scarce. Early documentation of kimchi dates back to the 7th century. Over time, kimchi became an important part of Korean culture and cuisine, and its popularity has spread around the world.
Ingredients
Kimchi is typically made with cabbage as the main ingredient, although other vegetables such as radish, cucumber, carrot and scallions can also be used. The vegetables are cut into bite-sized pieces (a very cut forward experience) and then mixed with a seasoning paste made from a blend of spices, herbs, and other flavorings. The seasoning paste typically contains garlic, ginger, chili pepper, fish sauce, and salt.
Health Benefits of Kimchi
Kimchi is not only a delicious and flavorful dish, but it also has numerous health benefits. One of the main benefits of kimchi is that it is a probiotic food, which means it contains beneficial bacteria that help support digestive health. Additionally, kimchi is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium, iron, and potassium. It is also low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Kimchi recipe ideas:
We turn to a few sources when looking at ways to prepare, "cook," and use kimchi. Some of those follow:
https://kimchimari.com/ways-to-eat-cook-kimchi-recipes/
https://www.foodandwine.com/condiments/everything-you-can-do-jar-kimchi
https://food52.com/blog/21206-what-to-do-with-a-jar-of-kimchi
https://www.tastingtable.com/995014/delicious-ways-to-use-up-kimchi/