Cover The Hallyu (Korean Wave) has made kimchi the world’s hottest superfood, conquering social media and international cuisines (Photo: Getty Images)
The Hallyu (Korean Wave) has made kimchi the world’s hottest superfood, conquering social media and international cuisines (Photo: Getty Images)
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Move over, sriracha! There’s a new condiment king in town–kimchi–and it’s been fermenting its way into hearts, homes, and restaurant kitchens worldwide
Kimchi, Korea’s beloved spicy fermented vegetable dish, has transcended its traditional roots to become a global culinary phenomenon. From food trucks in Los Angeles to high-end restaurants in Paris, this tangy, spicy, and umami-packed ingredient is proving that it's way more than just banchan (Korean side dishes).
Read more: The fermented food trend that you should try: Kombucha, kimchi, and more
Kimchi has exploded onto the international food scene in ways that would have been hard to imagine just a decade ago. Thanks to the Hallyu and the rising influence of Korean culture through K-dramas, K-pop, and social media, this fermented favourite, now the world’s hottest superfood, has found its way into countless fusion dishes that would make a Korean grandmother’s head spin–in the best possible way.
Chefs and home cooks alike are pushing the boundaries of what's possible with this versatile ingredient and the only limit seems to be imagination. Here are 11 mind-blowing fusion creations born out of the kimchi revolution.
1. Kimchi grilled cheese
Above Maangchi making kimchi grilled cheese
Who knew that the humble grilled cheese sandwich could get such a glow-up? Popular food YouTuber Maangchi helped popularise this creation, where sharp cheddar meets chopped kimchi between two perfectly toasted slices of bread. The result? A gooey, tangy masterpiece that’s become a late-night favourite across college campuses.
2. Kimchi quesadillas
Above Future Neighbor making kimchi quesadillas
Thank Los Angeles’ Roy Choi for this Korean-Mexican fusion wonder. His Kogi BBQ food truck empire introduced millions to the joy of kimchi quesadillas, proving that Korean and Mexican flavours are a match made in culinary heaven. If you’re nowhere near any of the food trucks, fret not. You can attempt to make a version of it on your own through Future Neighbor’s quick and snappy video.
See also: 17 Korean celebrities with their own YouTube channels
3. Kimchi pasta
When BTS’ Jin shared his love for kimchi pasta on a V-Live broadcast, fans worldwide rushed to try this fusion dish. The combination of kimchi’s tang with pasta’s al dente texture creates an unexpected harmony that’s both comforting and exciting, and digital creator Farah J Eats has the perfect recipe.
4. Kimchi fried rice arancini
Above Kimchi fried rice arancini would make a great appetiser or snack
These Italian-Korean fusion balls take traditional arancini to new heights. Kimchi fried rice is formed into balls, stuffed with mozzarella, breaded, and fried until golden. It’s a perfect example of how kimchi can elevate familiar comfort foods.
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5. Kimchi poutine
Above A quick and easy kimchi poutine recipe from Food Network Canada
This Canadian-Korean fusion takes the beloved Quebec dish to new places. Crispy fries topped with gravy, cheese curds, and generous portions of chopped kimchi create a late-night snack that’s gaining popularity in urban centres across North America.
6. Kimchi tacos
Another Roy Choi inspiration that’s spawned countless imitators. Spicy pork belly or tofu, paired with aged kimchi and wrapped in a warm corn tortilla, has become a food truck staple from Seoul to Seattle.
7. Kimchi mac and cheese
Above Whip up your kimchi mac and cheese with Tiffycooks
When Korean-American comfort food meets classic American comfort food, sparks fly and magic happens. This fusion dish, popularised by Korean-American chef Edward Lee, adds chopped kimchi and gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) to traditional mac and cheese for an unforgettable twist. Want to turn your mac and cheese dish into a knock-your-socks-off version? Try foodie creator Tiffycooks’ take on it.
8. Kimchi hummus
Above You won’t be able to get enough of Let Jane Cook’s creation
If you love kimchi and hummus, this one would be right up your alley. Your favourite Middle Eastern dish meets Korean flavour bombs in this unexpected combination. The tangy spice of kimchi adds a new dimension to traditional hummus, creating a dip that’s becoming increasingly popular in cosmopolitan cities.
See also: 6 snack ideas according to your favourite movie genre
9. Kimchi shakshuka
Above Sop up all the flavourful sauce of this kimchi shakshuka by What Great Grandma Ate
Another vibrant Middle Eastern dish gets a Korean makeover. Eggs are poached in a sauce of tomatoes, peppers, and kimchi, creating a spicy-tangy breakfast sensation. Popular food TV host Paik Jong-won demonstrated this fusion on his cooking show, leading to its widespread adoption in brunch spots across Seoul and beyond.
10. Kimchi ice cream
Above Would you take a bite out of kimchi ice cream? (Photo: Facebook/Brooklyn Pints Microcreamery)
Would you take a bite out of kimchi ice cream? (Photo: Facebook/Brooklyn Pints Microcreamery)
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Perhaps the most unexpected and unorthodox fusion of all is this creation from an artisanal ice cream shop in Brooklyn, Brooklyn Pints Microcreamery, which combines dairy-free ice cream with tiny bits of kimchi and honey and is sure to tickle your tastebuds. It’s garnered attention from food critics and adventurous eaters alike.
Don’t miss: The most unusual ice cream flavours around Asia
11. Kimchi Bloody Mary
Above How you can “Korean-fy” your Bloody Mary
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Lainey was the Digital Director of Tatler Malaysia. When not whiling away the hours watching documentaries, the latest K-drama, or reruns of Friends, she can be found indulging her wanderlust by stalking travel platforms or feeding her obsession with music. She loves animals, running, all things social media, a good conversation over coffee or soju or wine (often rambling on if nobody pulls the brakes on her), and is an avid fan of bursting-at-the-seams laughter.
