What Is Kimchi Made Of?

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made of fermented vegetables, usually cabbage. It's a popular side dish that's often served with rice and other dishes in Korea. It's also a key ingredient in many Korean dishes, like bibimbap and kimchi stew. If you're wondering what kimchi is made of and how to make it yourself, you've come to the right place.

Ingredients

The main ingredient in kimchi is of course, cabbage. You can use either green or napa cabbage. Other vegetables such as radishes, carrots, and onions can also be added. For the seasoning, you'll need garlic, ginger, chili peppers, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. You'll also need water and a few other ingredients for the fermentation process.

Instructions

Making kimchi is a fairly simple process. Start by washing and cutting the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix the cabbage with your hands and let it sit for about an hour. This will draw out the moisture and give the cabbage a crunchy texture.

Next, make the seasoning by mixing together the garlic, ginger, chili peppers, fish sauce, sugar, and salt. Add the seasoning to the cabbage and mix until all the pieces are evenly coated.

Now it's time to start the fermentation process. Place the cabbage in a jar or crock and add enough water to cover it. Cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for about a week. The longer the kimchi ferments, the more flavorful it will be.

Once the kimchi has reached your desired level of fermentation, place it in the refrigerator. Kimchi will keep for several months.

Nutrition

Kimchi is a great source of vitamins and minerals, as well as probiotics. It's high in fiber and low in calories, making it a great addition to any diet. It's also rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as potassium, calcium, and iron.

Kimchi is also a great source of probiotics. The fermentation process creates beneficial bacteria that can help improve digestion and boost immunity.

Serving Suggestions

Kimchi can be enjoyed as a side dish with rice or noodles. It can also be added to soups or stews, or as a topping for eggs and vegetables. It's also great in sandwiches and wraps, and as an ingredient in recipes like kimchi fried rice, kimchi pancakes, and kimchi dumplings.

Kimchi is a tasty and nutritious dish that's easy to make and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. So why not try making it yourself? You'll be glad you did!