Fermented Foods: Kimchi

Nov 9, 2024 by Chef David

By Chef David

Americans are recognizing the importance of maintaining a healthy gut and have begun increasing their consumption of fermented foods. Fermentation is a process where microorganisms like yeast and bacteria break down sugars to produce good bacteria and microorganisms. The human digestive tract contains 100 trillion bacteria and other microorganisms, but eating processed foods and taking antibiotics can reduce the number of microbes and create an imbalance. Incorporating fermented foods into your diet is one way to create a diverse and balanced microbiome.

Previous articles discussed traditional fermented foods like sauerkraut and pickles. There are many more fermented foods available – we recently explored kimchi, a healthy condiment that can improve gut health.

We recently discovered Lucky Foods’ vegan Seoul Kimchi certified kosher by the KSA.

What is Kimchi?

Kimchi is a traditional Korean fermented dish gaining popularity due to its health benefits and tangy bold flavor. Kimchi originated 3,000 years ago, fermenting traditional vegetables with salt in large earthenware jars stored in the ground. The original kimchi was white and not spicy. Over time the method for making kimchi was modified, soy sauce was substituted for salt, and the main ingredients became napa cabbage, garlic, and Korean red chili pepper (Gochugaru).

Health Benefits of Kimchi

Kimchi is a plant-based probiotic that contains lactic acid bacteria and vitamins A, B6, C, and K, along with calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and selenium. Kimchi is also a good source of fiber. A 1-ounce serving contains 15 calories and provides 1 gram of both fiber and protein. However, it is recommended to eat kimchi in moderation as it is high in salt (280 mg) per serving.

Secrets of Seoul Kimchi

Seoul Kimchi is packed fresh and actively fermenting in the jar, which allows you to control the length of fermentation. For mild, crispy kimchi, eat it right away. The kimchi will continue to ferment in the refrigerator, maturing and developing a bold, bubbly flavor. As the kimchi ferments, it lets off gases. This trapped pressure can cause the lid to bulge, it may make a fizzing sound, and, like champagne can pop when the jar is opened.

Kimchi gets its red color and spicy kick from Gochugaru which is made from dried red chili peppers. Gochugaru adds a smoky, fruity flavor, and depending on how much is used can make the kimchi spicy. The heat factor of kimchi intensifies over time as it ferments.

Most kimchis contain fish sauce, but Lucky Brands offers two kosher-vegan options: Original and Spicy. Seoul Kimchi is made from simple ingredients: napa cabbage, chili peppers, garlic, carrots, cane sugar, onion, ginger, and sea salt. It does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners.

Our Thoughts

We sampled the original vegan Seoul Kimchi and found it zesty, rather than spicy. Its bold rich flavor was a pleasant surprise and made a nice accent for salads or sandwiches, enhancing the flavors of meats and vegetables. Now we understand why kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish that is served with most meals.

When we first opened the jar the texture of the vegetables was firm, and the flavor mild. As the kimchi matures it will change due to the fermentation process getting spicier and less crisp (but ours did not last long enough to age).

Lucky Brands

Lucky Foods began in the 1970s as a family-owned business, a way to earn a living after immigrating to the United States. They began with a single restaurant and grew manufacturing prepared foods starting with Lucky Spring Rolls [which are kosher, and certified by the KSA]. Their Seoul Kimchi is based on a family recipe. It is made in small craft batches.

Note: Lucky Foods’ other products are not kosher.

In 2023, South Korean company Daesang acquired Lucky Foods. South as part of its efforts to expand its kimchi business in the United States. We sincerely hope that Lucky Brand will continue producing high-quality kosher products bringing the taste of Korea to the kosher foodie.

 Seoul Kimchi can be purchased online or in stores.