Meet South Africa's Most Authentic Korean Dishes
-
Napa Cabbage Kimchi
Regular price From R 110.00 ZARRegular priceUnit price per -
SaleGinger Dried Radish
Regular price R 90.00 ZARRegular priceUnit price perR 120.00 ZARSale price R 90.00 ZARSale
What is Kimchi?
Kimchi is a beloved staple of Korean cuisine that has captivated taste buds around the world. At its core, kimchi is a fermented vegetable dish, typically made with Napa Cabbage and a variety of seasonings. This iconic Korean side dish is celebrated for its unique blend of flavors, textures, and health benefits.
Ingredients and Preparation
At the heart of Kimchi are fresh vegetables, with Napa Cabbage being the most popular choice. However, creativity knows no bounds, and other vegetables like Radishes, Mustard Leaves, Perilla Leaves, Cucumbers and many more also find their way into this iconic Korean dish. These vegetables are carefully seasoned with a mixture of ingredients such as salt, sugar, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and red pepper flakes. The combination of these ingredients creates the distinctive, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor that kimchi is known for.
Fermentation
What sets kimchi apart is its fermentation process. The seasoned vegetables are left to ferment, allowing beneficial bacteria to develop. This fermentation not only imparts a complex flavor profile but also enhances the nutritional value of kimchi. It's a living food that evolves in taste and texture over time, offering a range of options, from milder and crunchier to more pungent and tender.
Probiotic Powerhouse
Kimchi is a fermented food, rich in beneficial bacteria (probiotics) that promote a healthy gut microbiome. These probiotics contribute to digestive health and can enhance the immune system.
Nutrient-Rich
Kimchi is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and calcium. These nutrients play essential roles in maintaining overall health.
Low in Calories
It's a low-calorie food, making it a good option for those looking to manage their weight. The bulk of kimchi comes from vegetables, which are generally low in calories.
Fermented Benefits
The fermentation process not only enhances the shelf life of vegetables but also breaks down compounds, making nutrients more bioavailable. This can improve the absorption of nutrients in the digestive system.
Versatility
Kimchi is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed as a side dish at a braai, added to soups, stews, or stir-fries, and used as a condiment to liven up various dishes. Beyond its traditional applications, creative chefs have found innovative ways to incorporate kimchi into Western cuisine, making it a popular ingredient in everything from burgers to tacos.
Recommended dishes to make: Kimchi Fried Rice, Kimchi Pancakes, Kimchi Stew and Kimchi Tacos
About Us
Min-Jae (MJ) Cho and his family moved from South Korea to South Africa in 1997. MJ's mom, had always believed that food was the key to the heart. She longed to make her new home in South Africa feel like the bustling streets of Seoul, filled with the tantalizing aromas and flavors of Korean cuisine. Every year, as the seasons changed, MJ's mom would embark on making a year's supply of kimchi for her family and the Korean community whom missed the flavors of home.
With no experience in business, MJ decided to honor his mother's passion for sharing the Korean delicacy by starting a family owned business. The mission was clear: To introduce extraordinary Korean dishes to the diverse palate of South Africans. They knew it wouldn't be easy, but had a passion for introducing Korean culture and hopes to create a bridge between South Korea and South Africa. In every jar of kimchi, there's a story of love, resilience, and the power of a family's passion to bridge cultures and bring joy to others.