A Guide to Buying Kimchi Online

Finding authentic kimchi can be a challenge, especially when trying to choose from the selections available online. The variety of types, ingredient lists, and package sizes can quickly become overwhelming. This guide is designed to help you make an informed decision by outlining objective criteria for buying kimchi and presenting a selection of products suitable for different preferences and dietary needs.

Buyer's Guide: What to Look for When Buying Kimchi

To find the right product for your needs, it helps to understand a few basic aspects. The following points offer guidance when you want to order kimchi online.

1. Kimchi Variety: More Than Just Napa Cabbage

Although kimchi is often associated with napa cabbage, there are numerous variations. The most well-known type is Baechu-kimchi (napa cabbage kimchi). Another popular variety is Kkakdugi, also known as radish kimchi, which is made from diced Korean radish and has a particularly crunchy texture. Pay attention to the product name to select the right type for you.

2. The Ingredient List: Traditional or Vegan?

Traditional Korean kimchi often contains ingredients like fish sauce (frequently from anchovies) or fermented shrimp paste, which provide its characteristic umami flavour. For those on a plant-based diet, it is therefore important to specifically look for vegan kimchi. Vegan versions replace animal products with alternatives like soy paste or other plant-based seasonings to achieve a comparable flavour profile. A close look at the ingredients and allergens is therefore essential.

3. Packaging and Storage: Chilled or Shelf-Stable?

Kimchi is a living, fermented food. The type of packaging directly affects its storage and shelf life.

• Chilled Kimchi: Often packaged in pouches or jars, it must be kept refrigerated at all times. The fermentation process continues, causing the flavour to evolve over time.
• Shelf-Stable Kimchi: Products in cans or special, heat-treated pouches can be stored without refrigeration. They are great for stocking your pantry. However, once opened, these products should also be refrigerated and consumed quickly.

Our Kimchi Suggestions

Here you will find a selection of kimchi products that cater to different tastes and requirements. The descriptions are based on manufacturer information and are intended to provide an objective basis for your decision.

1. Jongga KR Chongga Mat Kimchi COI 160g

What makes this product stand out This product is a classic Mat-kimchi, which means the napa cabbage is already cut into bite-sized pieces. The recipe includes traditional ingredients like fermented anchovy sauce and shrimp sauce, which provide a deep and authentic flavour. The 160g pack is designed for immediate consumption.

• Advantages: Ready-to-eat without cutting, classic flavour profile, crunchy texture from the combination of cabbage and radish.
• Suitable for: Individuals who are looking for the traditional, non-vegan kimchi taste and prefer a convenient, small portion size for immediate use.

Product Details:

• Ingredients: Salted Napa Cabbage 69.4% (Napa Cabbage, Salt), Radish, Red Chilli Powder, Sugar, Garlic, Onion, Spring Onion, Korean Leek, Chives, Ginger, Fermented Anchovy Sauce (Fish (Anchovy), Salt), Fermented Shrimp Sauce (Crustaceans (Shrimp), Salt), Kelp Base Syrup (Kelp Extract, Fructose), Flavour Enhancer (Monosodium Glutamate).
• Allergens: Contains fish, crustaceans.
• Storage: Store refrigerated at 0°C to 4°C. After opening, keep refrigerated and consume within one week.

2. Delief Cubic Radish Kimchi Can 160g

What makes this product stand out This is a classic radish kimchi (Kkakdugi) in cubed form. Its special feature is the packaging: the 160g can makes the product shelf-stable without refrigeration, making it ideal for stocking your pantry. The flavour is described as spicy and sour, with the typically firm, crunchy texture of radish.

• Advantages: Long shelf life before opening, convenient and sturdy can packaging, characteristic texture of radish cubes.
• Suitable for: Lovers of radish kimchi and anyone looking for a shelf-stable kimchi option for their pantry.

Product Details:

• Ingredients: Radish, Water, Salt, Red Chilli Powder, Garlic, Sugar, Ginger, Flavour Enhancer (E621), Shrimp Extract [Shrimp (KORP-261), Water, Salt].
• Allergens: Contains shrimp (crustaceans).
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. After opening, store in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.

3. bibigo Kimchi Ambient 150g

What makes this product stand out This kimchi from bibigo is explicitly labelled as vegan kimchi and is Halal-certified. It is made without fish sauce, using plant-based ingredients like soy peptone for the fermentation process instead. The special packaging allows for storage at room temperature. The napa cabbage is already cut into bite-sized pieces.

• Advantages: 100% vegan and Halal-certified, can be stored without refrigeration, no artificial additives, ready-to-eat pieces.
• Suitable for: Vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for a plant-based, shelf-stable kimchi alternative without animal products.

Product Details:

• Ingredients: Salted Napa Cabbage (76.2%) (Napa Cabbage, Salt), Thickener (Water), Acidity Regulator (Calcium Lactate E327), Thickener (Xanthan Gum), Salt, Leeks, Paprika Powder, Garlic, Crystalline Fructose, Acidity Regulators (Lactic Acid E270, Calcium Lactate E327), Salt, Ginger, Starter Cultures (Soy Peptone).
• Allergens: Contains soy.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from light.

Looking for Other Fermented Specialities?

Kimchi is just one of many ways to enjoy fermented vegetables. If you want to expand your culinary horizons, you can find more pickled and fermented products to enhance your dishes in our Pickles & Relish category.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What exactly is kimchi? Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables. The most common base is napa cabbage, but radish, cucumbers, or spring onions are also used. The fermented cabbage or vegetable is mixed with a seasoning paste made from ingredients like gochugaru (Korean chilli powder), garlic, ginger, and, depending on the recipe, fish sauce or other seasonings, and undergoes a lactic acid fermentation process.

2. How long does kimchi last? The shelf life depends heavily on the type of product. Freshly packaged, refrigerated kimchi can last for several weeks in the fridge, during which its flavour will continue to intensify and become more sour due to ongoing fermentation. After opening, it is recommended to consume it within about a week. Heat-treated products in cans or special pouches are often shelf-stable for several months to years. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions on the packaging.

3. Is kimchi always spicy? Most types of kimchi have a certain level of spiciness, which comes from the chilli powder (gochugaru) used. However, the heat level can vary significantly depending on the brand and recipe. While a spicy flavour is characteristic, there are milder versions and also "white kimchi" (Baek Kimchi), which is prepared without any chilli powder and is not spicy.