What to Eat With Kimchi 2025: Bold Flavors, Easy Meals 

Kimchi brings more than just heat to the table. This fermented Korean classic delivers a complex mix of tang, spice, and umami that instantly livens up whatever it touches. It’s bold, a little funky, and loaded with live cultures that can support your gut and boost your meals with a satisfying crunch.

It works as a fiery side, but don’t stop there! Kimchi can star in everything from stews and stir-fries to burgers and pancakes. If you're ready to experiment, these recipes will help you explore all the punchy, unexpected ways to cook with kimchi.

Disclaimer: All the recipes on this page are carefully crafted by our team, including our in-house nutritionist, who also calculates the nutritional information provided. While we strive for accuracy, please note that actual values may vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

1. Steamed Jasmine Rice With Soy Sauce

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Rinse the jasmine rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Add the rice and 1 ½ cups of water to a pot and bring to a boil.

3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. After 15 minutes, turn the heat off, and leave the pot on the burner to continue steaming the rice until the rest of the dish is done.

5. Fluff the rice with a spoon or rice paddle, and stir in the soy sauce and salt to taste.

Overview 🔍

Jasmine rice goes well with kimchi as it balances the spicy, fermented flavors with its light, neutral taste. The soft, fluffy rice pairs perfectly with the tangy kick of kimchi, creating a satisfying meal that doesn’t overpower your taste buds.

I love this recipe because it’s simple and quick, making it perfect for those who want a flavorful side without much effort. Whether you're eating it as part of a larger meal or as a stand-alone dish, it’s a comforting addition to any kimchi pairing.

2. Beef & Broccoli Udon Soup With Kimchi

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add the lean beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.

3. Add the garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce, then bring to a boil.

5. Add the udon noodles and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

6. Stir in the broccoli florets and simmer for 2-3 more minutes, until tender.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the sesame oil and chopped kimchi.

8. Serve hot, garnished with extra kimchi if desired.

Overview 🔍

Udon soup offers a rich, comforting base that pairs perfectly with the spicy kick of kimchi. The tender beef, savory broth, and soft udon noodles create a hearty dish, while the broccoli adds a fresh crunch. The kimchi infuses the soup with a zesty, fermented flavor that elevates the entire meal.

I love that it’s quick to prepare and satisfying, making it a great option when you're craving something Japanese without slaving away in the kitchen. Plus, each serving only contains around 500 calories, which is perfect if you're watching your food intake.

3. Kimchi Rice & Eggs

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the long-grain rice according to package instructions.

3. While the rice is cooking, heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Add the mushrooms and cook until softened, or about 3–4 minutes.

5. Add the spinach, sautéed aromatics, kimchi, and gochujang, cooking for an additional 3–4 Minutes.

6. Divide the rice evenly into two aluminum trays.

7. Top with the mushroom-spinach mixture.

8. Crack the pasture-raised eggs over the rice mixture in each tray.

9. Place the trays in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the eggs are cooked to your liking.

10. Drizzle with sesame dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Overview 🔍 

This dish combines the richness of eggs, the spicy kick of kimchi, and the hearty texture of rice. The sautéed mushrooms and spinach add depth and freshness, while the gochujang gives it a nice spicy heat. The sesame dressing and seeds provide a nutty finish, making this dish a satisfying and delicious meal.

It’s perfect for an easy yet flavorful meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. This dish brings together spicy, savory, and umami flavors in a way that’s quick and simple to prepare, making it ideal for a busy day when you need something nourishing and filling.

4. Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese With Kimchi