Kimchi

GRC - Baek kimchi (백김치, white cabbage kimchi), a variety of kimchi made without red chili pepper flakes, is highly recommended for those who are not a fan of spicy foods.

Made from a diversity of vegetables, kimchi contains an abundance of dietary fibers and is low in calories. It is also a source of important vitamins and minerals. Kimchi started gaining international acclaim as a souvenir for its medicinal qualities. Many studies over the years suggest that the lactobacillus in kimchi helps fight against bacteria and cancer, and help prevent aging and obesity.

In Korea, no meal is complete without a side of kimchi. Typically, Chinese cabbage or white radish is salted and mixed with red chili pepper flakes, garlic, ginger, fermented seafood, and other ingredients. The types of kimchi vary by region and season. Kimchi has more than 180 varieties, including baechu-kimchi (배추김치, cabbage kimchi, most commonly served), kkakdugi (깍두기, chopped radish kimchi) and yeolmu-kimchi (열무김치 young radish water kimchi).

Shopping Tip Vacuum-packed kimchi is highly recommended for travelers planning to take kimchi with them to pass stringent customs and prevent any leaks. A variety of packaged kimchi types are readily available in department stores, supermarkets, convenience stores and duty free shops.