What Does Kimchi Taste Like?

What Is Kimchi?

First thing's first: what exactly is kimchi? 

Kimchi is a traditional salted and fermented vegetable dish originating from Korea. It’s typically made with vegetables such as napa cabbage, radish, and spring onions, then mixed with spices and seasonings like red pepper flakes, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. The mixture is left to ferment for a period of time before being eaten.

You can buy kimchi at most grocery stores these days, or you can make it at home. It's a staple in Korean cuisine and considered to be healthy because it’s fermented, like sauerkraut, miso, and kombucha.

What Does Kimchi Taste Like?

It's hard to describe the exact taste of kimchi, as it can vary depending on how it's made and what ingredients are used. But generally, kimchi has a tangy, spicy, and slightly sour taste, with a hint of umami flavor from the fermentation process.

Some people compare kimchi's spiciness to that of hot sauce or salsa, but with a more complex and layered flavor profile. It can also have a slightly crunchy texture if made with fresh vegetables, or a softer, more pickled texture if left to ferment for longer.

Traditional kimchi is often made with Korean fish sauce and salted fermented shrimp, which is why it can have fishy taste. However, there are also vegetarian and vegan versions of kimchi that do not use fish sauce, which means they don’t have that fishy flavor.

Is Kimchi Good for Your Gut?

Yes, kimchi is a beneficial food for gut health! The fermentation process creates probiotics, which are live microorganisms that help balance the bacteria in your digestive tract. This may lead to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and overall better gut health. The health benefits of kimchi go beyond probiotics, though. Kimchi is also high in fiber and packed with vitamins and minerals like vitamins C, K, and B6. 

How Should You Eat It?

There are countless ways to enjoy kimchi! In Korean cuisine, it's often served alongside rice and main dishes. But you can also use it as a topping for noodles, in soups and stews, or even on pizza. Kimchi pairs well with a variety of foods and flavors. Some common pairings include grilled meat, rice dishes, tofu, and seafood. The spicy, tangy flavors of kimchi also go well with rich or creamy dishes to balance out the flavors.

My Favorite Ways to Use Kimchi

Now that you know what kimchi tastes like, it's time to eat! These recipes either use kimchi as an ingredient or they can be served with kimchi as an accompaniment.