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K-dramas have proved that Korean culture is rich and welcoming. People are rooted in their tradition, follow age-old culinary techniques, and are exceptionally talented. Their fermented kimchi has taken over the world for its spicy and tangy taste and the ease of making it at home. Every drama features this side dish without which Korean meals seem incomplete.
It’s a Korean pickle that can be used as one of the main ingredients to prepare a wholesome meal. Have you tried mixing it with noodles? You might not have, but Koreans love to infuse their delicacies with their umami notes. Below are some popular dishes which are made more palatable by adding kimchi to them. Check them out!
Kimchi Stew
When in doubt about the flavours of an ingredient, use it to prepare a batch of stew. It is the easiest way to understand the notes and experiment with them later. Kimchi stew is quintessential in Korean households, especially in winter. Locals add tofu, vegetables, and pork belly to prepare a spicy and hearty batch that provides them with warmth. The older the kimchi is, the better fermented it is to provide depth to the recipe of the stew.
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Tofu Kimchi
Combine tofu and kimchi to prepare a protein-rich, gut-friendly dish. Steamed tofu is served with wok-tossed vegetables and stir-fried kimchi. This vibrant creation can be served as a starter or a main course delicacy if you are hosting a Korean-themed party. You can also add some grilled meat on the side if you want it protein-dense. People looking to increase their muscle mass can enjoy this delight for dinner.
Kimchi Fried Rice
You can turn ordinary fried rice into a Korean delight by adding kimchi to the recipe. It’s a popular street food that is often served with meat like pork or tuna on the side. Grains are tossed with vegetables, and a fried egg is added on top as a garnish. This wholesome dish can be your go-to comfort food, irrespective of where you live. The best part of this recipe is that you can prepare it in under 30 minutes or less.
Kimchi Noodles
In ‘What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim’, the leads were shown indulging in ramen with kimchi. Along with adding umami notes to the recipe, the fermented Korean pickle also adds a slight crunch that comes from the hard base of the nappa cabbage. Traditionally, people combine cold noodles with gochujang (Korean chilli paste), seasonings, and sesame oil. You can combine spices and paste with hot oil and toss fresh kimchi and noodles in the mix. Try this at home and enjoy it with fried eggs or stir-fried vegetables on the side.
Kimchi Pancake
Have you ever thought of mixing kimchi to prepare a pancake? Well, if you are thinking about the European spongy discs, the recipe might seem a bit weird. Think of savoury pancakes prepared across South Korea. Eggs, flour, chopped kimchi, vegetables, and a preferred choice of seafood are whisked together. This pancake has crispy edges and a soft interior, making it a drool-worthy snack to indulge in.
