Probiotics are necessary for gut health because the presence of good bacteria strengthens our immune system, helps ward off cancer, heart disease, as well as autoimmune diseases. Probiotics are found in dairy products, but there are plenty of plant-based foods that contain probiotics too. Kimchi, in particular is delicious, contains probiotics, and can absolutely be made vegan. It’s a fermented Korean side dish that boasts many benefits for your digestive system.
Here are 8 delicious probiotic recipes from our Food Monster App using Kimchi!
1. Homemade Kimchi
Source: Homemade Kimchi
Besides just snacking, Kimchi can also be served as a side dish by itself, and is irresistibly delicious on top of a warm bowl of rice, but that is just the beginning! This spicy, garlicky, gingery delicacy can be used in many creative ways: Kimchi fried rice, kimchi grilled cheese sandwiches, kimchi burritos… Try this recipe by Adam Merrin and Ryan Alvarez; have fun, and let your culinary imagination go wild!
2. Kimchi Poutine
Source: Kimchi Poutine
This marrying of a Canadian favorite and a Korean digestion-enhancing, healthful flavor bomb might seem a bit strange, but just close your eyes – right now, do it. Now imagine biting into a hot, soft sweet potato fry that has been seasoned perfectly with fragrant, garlicky, gingery and impeccably spiced kimchi – then you get a hint of a tangy and ever-so-cheesy hemp sauce. Oh yeah. You know you’re down for Shanna Laychuk‘s Kimchi Poutine.
3. Kimchi Chigae: Korean Kimchi Stew
Source: Kimchi Chigae: Korean Kimchi Stew
Kimchi Chigae is a Korean recipe that has the aim of making sure nothing goes to waste. Like bibimbap, it’s about taking what’s in your fridge that you would otherwise not serve at the table and putting them into a pot until they become delicious again. If you like spicy food, you will love Joanne Lee‘s recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and healthy to boot!
4. Kimchi Pancake
Source: Kimchi Pancake
Shut the front door! Melanie Sorrentino‘s Kimchi Pancakes are addictively crispy, wonderfully spicy, and so easy to make. The spiciness of kimchi is enhanced by red chili paste, making it the perfect side for anyone who likes fiery foods. Sprinkle with sliced green onions for presentation or just dig in.
5. Kimchi Mushroom Burgers
Source: Kimchi Mushroom Burgers
Sweet brioche burger buns, crunchy crumbed mushrooms, creamy kimchi mayonnaise, spicy kimchi, and cooling cucumber. Amanda Logan‘s Kimchi Mushroom Burgers are guaranteed to make your taste buds happy. The mushrooms are meaty on the inside and crispy on the outside, the kimchi provides crunch and spice. It’s the perfect blend of flavors and textures that’ll be a hit with your family, friends – pretty much everyone.
6. Gochujang Kimchi Sausages
Source: Gochujang Kimchi Sausages
Somebody call the police because these vegan Kimchi Sausages from the Bold Flavored Vegan Cooking cookbook stole all the umami amazingness in the world. They come in handy in the gochujang kimchi bowls, Korean-style soft tacos, kimchi fried rice, and many more recipes. Consider making a double batch because they freeze really well, too!
7. Kimchi and Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry
Source: Kimchi and Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry
You probably wouldn’t think that kimchi and Brussels sprouts would go well together, as Brussels sprouts aren’t exactly a traditional Korean food. But since they’re both part of the cabbage family, it’s actually a no-brainer! Olivia Lin‘s Kimchi and Brussels Sprouts Stir Fry side dish is comforting, spicy, and absolutely delicious and you could eat it with most anything, like rice, noodles, or even by itself!
8. Kimchi
Source: How to Make Your Own Kimchi
Kimchi, the national dish of Korea, is a spicy pickled cabbage that adds a tangy, robust punch of flavor to any dish. While kimchi sometimes contains shrimp paste or fish sauce, the kimchi in this recipe is completely vegan and because tamarind is used instead of soy sauce to recreate the saltiness, it is gluten-free too! Add this kimchi by Julie Park to any dish you feel could use a burst of umami. Yum!
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