Discover the world of kimchi, a flavorful and spicy Korean side dish, and find the perfect accompaniments to complete your meal.
With its unique taste and texture, kimchi pairs well with various side dishes that complement and enhance its flavors.
Here are the 16 best side dishes to enjoy with kimchi, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying meal.
Looking for a quick answer?
The best side dishes to eat with kimchi are steamed white rice, steamed dumplings, fried shrimp, potstickers, beef and broccoli, egg roll in a bowl grilled meat, Korean pancakes, crispy tofu, japchae, Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, and pickled vegetables.
Now, let's get cooking!
Table of Contents
- 1. Steamed White Rice
- 2. Beef and Broccoli
- 3. Fried Shrimp
- 4. Potstickers
- 5. Egg Roll in a Bowl
- 6. Grilled Meat
- 8. Korean Pancakes
- 9. Crispy Tofu
- 10. Japchae
- 11. Korean Fried Chicken
- 12. Bibimbap
- 13. Pickled Vegetables
- 14. Steamed Dumplings
- 15. Korean Glass Noodle Stir-fry
- 16. Korean BBQ Ribs
- What To Serve With Kimchi
1. Steamed White Rice
Steamed white rice is a classic and simple side dish that goes perfectly with kimchi. The mild, fluffy rice balances the bold, spicy flavors of the kimchi, creating a harmonious combination. It's also a staple in Korean cuisine, making it an authentic choice for your meal.
2. Beef and Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is a classic Asian-inspired dish that complements the flavors of kimchi. Tender beef and crisp broccoli are stir-fried in a savory sauce, creating a delicious and satisfying side dish. The combination of flavors and textures pairs nicely with the bold taste of kimchi.
3. Fried Shrimp
Fried shrimp is a tasty side dish that goes great with kimchi. The crispy, golden shrimp offers a different texture and flavor that contrasts nicely with the spicy and tangy kimchi. Serve them with a dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or soy sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.
4. Potstickers
Potstickers are pan-fried dumplings that make a fantastic side dish to serve with kimchi. These crispy, flavorful dumplings can be filled with your choice of meat or vegetables and are perfect for dipping in a savory sauce. They add variety and texture to your meal, enhancing the overall experience.
5. Egg Roll in a Bowl
Egg roll in a bowl is a deconstructed version of a traditional egg roll, making it a unique side dish to serve with kimchi. This dish consists of ground meat, cabbage, and other vegetables cooked in a flavorful sauce. The savory taste and crunchy texture make it an excellent accompaniment to spicy kimchi.
6. Grilled Meat
Grilled meat is a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with kimchi. Whether it's beef, pork, or chicken, the smoky flavors of the grilled meat complement the tangy and spicy taste of the kimchi. Choose your favorite cut and marinate it with soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil for an irresistible pairing.
8. Korean Pancakes
Korean pancakes, or pajeon, are a tasty side dish that goes well with kimchi. Made with a mixture of flour, egg, and vegetables, these savory pancakes are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Dip them in a tangy soy sauce mixture for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Crispy Tofu
Tofu is a versatile and healthy side dish that complements the strong flavors of kimchi. You can serve it steamed, pan-fried, or stir-fried with your favorite vegetables. Its subtle taste and smooth texture make it a great choice for those looking for a lighter option.
10. Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean noodle dish made with sweet potato noodles, vegetables, and a flavorful soy sauce mixture. This delicious side dish pairs well with kimchi, as the sweet and savory noodles balance the spicy and tangy flavors of the kimchi.
11. Korean Fried Chicken
Korean fried chicken is a crispy and flavorful side dish that goes great with kimchi. The crunchy, golden chicken is coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that complements the bold flavors of the kimchi. Enjoy this mouthwatering combination for a truly satisfying meal.
12. Bibimbap
Bibimbap is a traditional Korean rice dish that's perfect for serving with kimchi. It's made with steamed rice, an assortment of vegetables, and a spicy gochujang sauce. This colorful and flavorful dish can be customized with your favorite toppings, making it a fantastic choice for a kimchi accompaniment.
13. Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables are a tangy and crunchy side dish that pairs well with kimchi. Choose from a variety of pickled cucumbers, radishes, or carrots to add a touch of acidity and a different texture to your meal. They also help to cleanse your palate between bites of the spicy kimchi.
14. Steamed Dumplings
Steamed dumplings are a delightful side dish that pairs well with kimchi. These tender, bite-sized morsels can be filled with a variety of ingredients like pork, shrimp, or vegetables. The mild flavors of the dumplings complement the bold taste of kimchi, making for a delicious combination.
15. Korean Glass Noodle Stir-fry
Jjapaguri, also known as Korean glass noodle stir-fry, is a popular side dish that goes well with kimchi. Made with glass noodles, vegetables, and a spicy sauce, this dish offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The chewy noodles and spicy sauce make it a perfect match for kimchi.
16. Korean BBQ Ribs
Korean BBQ ribs, or galbi, are a mouthwatering side dish that pairs beautifully with kimchi. These tender, marinated ribs are grilled to perfection and boast a sweet and savory flavor that complements the tangy and spicy taste of kimchi. This delicious combination is perfect for a special meal or gathering.
What To Serve With Kimchi
Ingredients
- 1 kimchi
Instructions
- Make the best kimchi using your favorite recipe.
- Make a side dish from the list above. You can eat kimchi with steamed white rice, steamed dumplings, fried shrimp, potstickers, beef and broccoli, egg roll in a bowl grilled meat, Korean pancakes, crispy tofu, japchae, Korean fried chicken, bibimbap, and pickled vegetables.
- Serve and enjoy a wonderful meal 🙂