Kimchi Slaw
Kimchi Slaw: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Side Dish
Kimchi slaw is a delicious and bold twist on traditional coleslaw, bringing the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine to this classic side dish. By combining the crunchiness of fresh cabbage and carrots with the tangy, spicy kick of kimchi, you get a fusion that is perfect for adding a burst of flavor to burgers, tacos, sandwiches, or even as a standalone side. Kimchi slaw is not only tasty but also packed with probiotics from the fermented kimchi, making it a flavorful and nutritious addition to any meal.
What Is Kimchi Slaw?
Kimchi slaw takes the traditional ingredients of a coleslaw—shredded cabbage, carrots, and sometimes onions—and adds a Korean twist by incorporating kimchi. Kimchi, a fermented vegetable dish typically made from napa cabbage and Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), brings a unique blend of spiciness, tanginess, and umami to the slaw. The combination of the fresh, crisp vegetables and the complex flavors of kimchi makes this a vibrant and exciting dish.
Ingredients for Kimchi Slaw
- 1 cup kimchi, roughly chopped
- 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 cup purple cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, julienned or shredded
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste) or more to taste
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey or sugar
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- Optional garnish: fresh cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice the green and purple cabbage and julienne or shred the carrot. Place the vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Chop the kimchi: Roughly chop the kimchi into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl with the cabbage and carrots.
Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, gochujang, soy sauce, and honey (or sugar) until well combined. Taste the dressing and adjust the spice level by adding more gochujang if desired.
Toss the slaw: Pour the dressing over the cabbage, carrots, and kimchi. Add the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds, and toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing.
Let the flavors meld: For the best results, let the kimchi slaw sit for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. This will also soften the vegetables slightly while still retaining their crunch.
Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired. Serve the kimchi slaw as a side dish with Korean BBQ, grilled meats, or use it to top burgers, tacos, or sandwiches.
Why You’ll Love Kimchi Slaw
Kimchi slaw is the perfect side for anyone who loves a balance of textures and flavors in their food. The crispness of the fresh vegetables combined with the tangy, spicy complexity of the kimchi creates a dish that is both refreshing and bold. The sesame oil and gochujang in the dressing enhance the umami flavors of the kimchi, while the honey adds a touch of sweetness that rounds out the heat.
This versatile slaw can complement a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re grilling up some Korean BBQ, making burgers, or looking for a zesty topping for fish tacos, kimchi slaw brings an exciting kick to your meals. Plus, with the probiotics found in kimchi, it’s a gut-friendly addition to your diet!
Conclusion
Kimchi slaw is a fun and flavorful way to elevate traditional coleslaw with the exciting, bold flavors of Korean cuisine. Easy to prepare and endlessly versatile, it’s a perfect side dish or topping for all kinds of meals. If you’re a fan of spicy, tangy flavors, this slaw will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!