Kimchi 101: Discover the Secrets of Korea’s Famous Side Dish at Abu Dhabi’s Authentic Korean Restaurant

Kimchi is the national dish of South Korea and is part of Korean culture. When South Korea sent its first astronaut to space, it sent kimchi with her. Kimchi gained global fame due to the popularity of K-dramas. 

At Nuri restaurant Abu Dhabi, kimchi is not just a side dish it’s a culinary treat dipped in history, tradition, and culture. Visit our restaurant to try the best Kimchi with your favourite Korean meal.

What is Kimchi? 

kimchi

Kimchi is a staple Korean side dish. It is made from fermented vegetables like radish and cabbage and various spices. It has a sour, salty, savoury, and often fiery taste. From its historical roots to its role in modern cuisine, kimchi continues to captivate and delight diners with its complex flavours and unique preparation.

Koreans enjoy it as a side dish or even as a main dish. The live probiotics present in the dish can also make it feel a bit fizzy on your tongue.

Kimchi and Kimjang Culture

The importance of kimchi in Korean culture is reflected in an annual Korean event dedicated to kimjang. Usually, kimchi recipes are not written down but shared with family members during kimjang. Kimjang is a traditional Korean practice of preparing large quantities of kimchi for winter consumption. 

This event brings together all family or community members under one roof. It is a beautiful moment of sharing and collective hard work by every member. A big feast usually follows after kimjang, which includes communal lunch or dinner, songs, laughter, and conversations. Tangbaechu kimchi is the most commonly made kimchi during this festival. 

Preparation of Kimchi 

Making kimchi is an art and science. Every Korean family has its own kimchi recipe, passed down from generation to generation. However, most of the recipes have similarities. The common ingredient in most kimchi is cabbage.  

The process of making kimchi starts with cutting the vegetables thinly. They’re later brined or salted to remove excess moisture and preserve them longer. 

Brined vegetables are coated in a mixture of garlic, ginger, chilli flakes, fish sauce, and sugar. They are then tightly packed into jars or containers. The last process is fermentation. The packed kimchi is left at room temperature for 1-2 days during this process. It’s later stored in the fridge.

Health Benefits of Kimchi: 

Kimchi is considered a good health food because it contains probiotic bacteria. Probiotics help regulate the immune system and improve mental health. The vegetables used in kimchi are rich in fibre, which helps improve and strengthen gut health. 

Apart from fibre and probiotics, kimchi also has a range of vitamins, including vitamins A, B, C, and K, and minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, and selenium. Some studies have also proved that people who ate more kimchi had lower “bad” LDL cholesterol levels and more “good” HDL cholesterol.

Kimchi and Korean Dining: Pairing and Serving

kimchi

Kimchi is more than just a side dish; it’s a versatile ingredient that enhances a wide range of Korean dishes. Here’s how kimchi complements various aspects of Korean dining:

As a Side Dish

Kimchi is traditionally served alongside main dishes such as bulgogi (marinated beef) and bibimbap (mixed rice). Its spicy and tangy flavours provide a perfect counterpoint to rich and savoury foods.

In Soups and Stews

Kimchi is often used as a base for soups and stews, such as kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew). The fermentation adds depth and complexity to these comforting dishes.

In Fusion Dishes:

 Korean Steakhouse in Abu Dhabi often incorporates kimchi into fusion dishes, such as kimchi burgers or kimchi tacos, offering a creative twist on traditional flavours.

As a Flavor Enhancer

Kimchi can be used in various recipes to add a punch of flavour. For instance, kimchi fried rice or kimchi pancakes showcase the versatility of this ingredient.

At Abu Dhabi’s authentic Korean restaurant, the kimchi is expertly paired with dishes to create a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience. 

Top 5 Kimchi Dishes to Try at Nuri Korean Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

At Nuri Grill & Bar, a Korean restaurant in Yas Island, kimchi lovers are always in for a treat. They can explore a variety of dishes made with kimchi. Here are the top 5 dishes that are a must-try: 

Dongchimi Guksu:

This dish features wheat noodles immersed in a refreshing broth made from radish water kimchi, complemented by a unique mix of particular ingredients. The result is a light yet flavorful experience perfect for any palate.

Kimchi Stew Pork/Beef:

A spicy and hearty stew, this dish combines tender pieces of pork or beef with robust kimchi simmered to create an intensely flavourful and satisfying meal. Its rich and spicy taste is sure to warm you up.

Chadol Kimchi Fried Rice: 

This dish offers a flavourful twist on traditional fried rice. It features kimchi-stirred rice with tender beef brisket. The combination of tangy kimchi and savoury beef makes each bite a delightful experience.

Kimchi Jeongol:

A classic Korean stew, Kimchi Jeongol is packed with beef or pork, tofu, and various vegetables, all simmered with kimchi. The result is a hearty, spicy stew that delivers depth and comfort in every spoonful.

Spicy Kimchi Stew: 

This dish is a thick, robust stew made by simmering kimchi with assorted meats, creating a rich and intense flavour profile. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a bold and spicy taste.

Conclusion

Kimchi has been a part of Korean culture for thousands of years. However, as the years pass, people prefer store-bought kimchi rather than making kimchi at home. Though they’re good in their own way, traditional kimchi will always have a special place in the hearts of Koreans. Today, globally, kimchi is considered a healthy food from Korea. Kimchi can be served as a side dish or used in the main dishes to enhance the dish’s taste. At the Korean restaurant in Abu Dhabi- Nuri Grill & Bar, we take pride in making the most authentic Korean dishes with the rich flavours of kimchi. 

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