WRITER : ARCHANA K
EDITOR : NANDINI
Credit: WIKIPEDIA
Kimchi is one of the most major and important traditional foods in Korea. When people think of Korean traditional food, the first dish that often comes to mind is Kimchi. Kimchi is Korea’s cultural food. It’s not just a side dish; Kimchi is the culture and identity of Korea. The most important dish in Korean cuisine is Kimchi. There are so many varieties of kimchi made with different vegetables as the main ingredients.
History:
The word ‘kimchi’ comes from the Korean word ‘chimchae’, which means ‘salted vegetables’. Originally, kimchi did not contain chili peppers. Red chili pepper was introduced to Korea in the 16th century.
During the Three Kingdoms Period (57 BCE to 668 CE), the three major kingdoms were:
- Goguryeo (37 BCE to 668 CE):
Located in northern Korea
Known for its strong warrior culture.
Considered the earliest form of Kimchi
- Baekje (18 BCE to 660 CE):
Located in the southwestern part of Korea
Known for advanced agriculture and trade with Japan and China.
Food culture was more refined
- Silla (57 BCE to 935 CE):
Located in the southeastern region
Known for developing Buddhist culture.
Koreans started as a necessity of storing and preserving vegetables during the long, cold winters, when many people died of starvation. Kimchi has been eaten in Korea for over 2,000 years. In those times, it was simply preserved with salted vegetables for the winter season.
There were no red chili peppers in early kimchi. After chili peppers arrived in Korea from the Americas in the early 1600s, Koreans started making red and spicy kimchi.
During Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945) Kimchi became a Symbol of Korean culture and identity. Today, Kimchi is a source of national pride.
Global Recognition:
In 2013, UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) listed ‘Kimjang’ (the traditional process of making kimchi together) as a World Intangible Cultural Heritage. Kimchi is now known worldwide. There are over 200 varieties of kimchi, and it is served with every Korean meal.
In 2006, Health Magazine listed kimchi as one of the world’s five healthiest foods.
In 2008, South Korea sent Kimchi into space with astronaut Yi So-yeon on a Russian Soyuz mission. This made kimchi the first fermented food to be eaten in outer space.
Kimchi as Cultural Identity During Occupation:
During the Japanese colonial rule in Korea (1910-1945), Korean culture, language, and traditions were stolen. Kimchi remained a quiet form of resistance. It became a symbol of national pride and identity, reminding Koreans of their roots and heritage.
In post-liberation Korea, especially after the Korean War (1950-1953), kimchi was essential for survival amid poverty. In fact, Kimchi was not just about food – it was about family, survival, and solidarity. Koreans eat over 2 million tons of kimchi annually.
In Seoul there is even a Kimchi Museum, and the mission is to inform the world about one of the major and healthiest items of Korean cuisine: Kimchi.
How Kimchi is Made:
- Kimchi is a fermented side dish made with:
- Napa cabbage or radish
- Salt
- Garlic, ginger, red pepper powder
- Fish sauce or fermented seafood
- Scallions or other vegetables
Health Benefits of Kimchi:
- Rich in probiotics
- High in fiber
- Low in calories
- Boosts gut health and immunity
- Loaded with vitamins A, B, and C
Koreans often say “Kimchi” rather than ‘cheese’ to make people smile and happy. Kimchi has not only remained a staple in Korean cuisine but has also earned global recognition as one of the world’s five healthiest foods and as superfood. Kimchi is Korean identity. Kimchi is not just a side dish—it’s a living history of Korea.
Share it with your family & friends :
as soon as I noticed this web site I went on reddit to share some of the love with them.
Can I just say what a reduction to search out someone who truly is aware of what theyre speaking about on the internet. You undoubtedly know the right way to convey an issue to gentle and make it important. Extra folks have to read this and perceive this facet of the story. I cant believe youre no more popular since you definitely have the gift.
One thing I’d really like to discuss is that weightloss system fast can be carried out by the right diet and exercise. Ones size not just affects appearance, but also the general quality of life. Self-esteem, depressive disorders, health risks, plus physical abilities are afflicted in an increase in weight. It is possible to make everything right and at the same time having a gain. In such a circumstance, a problem may be the reason. While too much food and not enough exercising are usually the culprit, common health conditions and traditionally used prescriptions can easily greatly increase size. Thanks for your post right here.