Korean food is cuisine that hails from the Asian area of Korea (which is now separated into North Korea and South Korea), and it has ancient roots that stem from nomadic cultures in the region.
Korean food is distinct from neighboring cuisines of Japan and China, although the style is still recognizably Asian in flavor and preparation. The cuisine incorporates a large number of side dishes (Banchan) and condiments with the mainstays of noodles, rice, vegetables, meats, seafoods and soy products. Rice is a staple in Korean cuisine, and you will find it served as the base for just about any meal. Korean food tends to be spicy, and incorporates string flavors of garlic, ginger and peppers.http://koreanfood.about.com/od/koreanfoodbasics/a/Korean101.htm
Kimchi
With the spreading of ethnic Koreans around the world, one of the most unique aspects of Korea's cuisine has gained interest and popularity: kimchi, the peppery fermented cabbage used as a side dish and condiment. Similar to the Eastern European pickle, kimchi grew out of the necessity to preserve vegetables through cold winters, and is traditionally fermented in a container placed in the ground.
Kimchi has been called the healthiest food in the world, and thus can be found at many health and natural foods stores. According to Health.com, the food is valued for its high levels of probiotics (healthy bacteria), and also contains antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin A. http://eating.health.com/2008/02/01/worlds-healthiest-foods-kimchi-korea/
How to Make Kimchi
This instructional video offers a traditional Korean recipe for the side dish kimchi. Kimchi is, essentially, fermented cabbage flavored with ingredients such as garlic, hot pepper and ginger. Many people enjoy their komchi on the hot side, but you can alter the levels of crushed red pepper to suit your own tastes.
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Fast Facts
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Kimchi is recognized as one of the healthiest foods in the world
