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Writer's picturelewishooper1

Kimchi — how this fermented dish became a worldwide trend!

What comes to your mind when you hear the word kimchi? Korea right?! This article will explore why kimchi is growing in worldwide popularity outside of Korea and its health benefits!


Photo: Kimchi - Lewis Hooper
Photo: Kimchi - Lewis Hooper


With many people around the world concerned about their health kimchi has became a great addition to many people's diets. I have tried European fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut, which is supposed to be really good for your body, especially digestion, though with the K-Wave and all things Korea becoming trendy worldwide, including kimchi.




If you were not already aware, kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made with salted, fermented vegetables. It is nutrient-dense, contains probiotics, and may help support the immune system and reduce inflammation, among many possible benefits. I have tried making oyster kimchi before, and I have to say the combination worked well I really would recommend booking yourself onto a Kimchi-making class while you visit Korea during winter!


Also, have you ever wondered why Korea has an aging population? Thank you to kimchi for this! Chronic inflammation is not only associated with numerous illnesses but also accelerates the aging process, so this is a great benefit of kimchi!



Kimchi has also made world headlines!



Back in the UK, kimchi has also started selling various brands in UK supermarkets, and when I visited the UK last year, I was really surprised to see the number of Korean food items, including kimchi, available for purchase. Most of the kimchi for sale is imported directly from Korea.


Since Brexit, the UK Government has signed closer trade deals with South Korea, and it has shown items available to buy in supermarkets.




Tradition is one of the main reasons why Koreans serve kimchi at almost every meal. History shows that Koreans were already eating kimchi as early as 37 BC. During those times, it was common for the locals to make fermented dishes because of the abundance of ingredients and lack of refrigeration. Aside from this, fermented dishes were also straightforward to create. Hence, kimchi was served at every meal and even eaten as a convenient snack, and I have to say having lived in Korea for some years now, kimchi has been on my weekly shopping list. I never thought that would happen!


Let us know your favorite type of Kimchi in the comments below.


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