By Honorary Reporter Majid Mushtaq from Pakistan

Photo = Majid Mushtaq

While Korea has a high number of tantalizing dishes, one stands at the forefront: kimchi. 

The sheer fact that kimchi has so many varieties tells how diverse the dish is. In addition, it also hints at the pride that most Koreans take in their food. Over decades, Korean cuisine has greatly evolved due to numerous changes in culture and society, but kimchi retains its place as a major part of the country’s identity.

Introduction
Believe it or not, kimchi dates back to the Silla Dynasty (57 B.C.-935). Despite its age-old existence, it holds a revered place in the Korean heart and soul for obvious reasons as an integral part of the Korean dining table. The flavor packs a punch and is guaranteed to bring one's taste buds on a culinary adventure.

Production

Kimchi is made through an intricate culinary process that involves salting and preserving. The ingredients include fermented red cabbage and a mixture of ginger, garlic, scallions, red pepper powder, salt, fish sauce and sugar. For those more adventurous in their food choices, one twist is kkakdugi (radish kimchi). Modern-day recipes have experimented with fusion flavors, adding a touch of cucumber and Brussel sprouts.

Appeal
Without a doubt, kimchi continues to reign supreme in the world of Korean cuisine, but for non-Koreans, the flavor is more of an acquired taste. The pungent blend of spices and vegetables hit the palate with a bang, and be warned of the unlimited kimchi cravings that could result afterwards.

Cool facts about kimchi

- The dish is Korean but can also go well with Western cuisine like eggs, hotdogs, hamburgers and tacos.

- Aged kimchi trumps fresh kimchi in taste. So the older the batch, the better the flavor.
- Kimchi is usually offered as a free side dish at Korean restaurants.
- Kimchi enthusiasts often have a separate fridge in their garage to store kimchi to keep the smell away from other foods and living areas.

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.