How To Improve Store Bought Kimchi: BEST Guide!

Picture this: you’ve just picked up a jar of store-bought kimchi, eager to enjoy its tangy and spicy flavours.

But upon opening the jar and taking a whiff, you can’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment.

Perhaps it’s not as flavourful as you had hoped, or maybe it’s missing that homemade touch. Fear not, dear kimchi-lover, for there are some excellent ways to improve and elevate your store-bought kimchi experience. 

Right here, we’re going to take an in-depth look at how to improve store bought kimchi, from customising the spice level to improving the texture. Let’s get going! 

(You might also want to take a look at my guides to fixing kimchi that’s too spicy, and making kimchi less salty!) 

Understanding Store Bought Kimchi

Knowing the ropes about store-bought kimchi can significantly enhance your experience and set you up for success.

In this section, we’ll explore ingredients and varieties, as well as storage and expiry tips.

Ingredients and Varieties

Generally, store-bought kimchi includes napa cabbage as the core ingredient, along with a plethora of spices, garlic, and fermented shrimp to give it that distinct, tangy flavour.

Some varieties may feature radish or cucumber instead of napa cabbage. One such exceptional brand is Mrs. Kim’s, known for their rich and flavoursome napa cabbage kimchi.

For spice enthusiasts, you might want to try the Wang Korean gochugaru brand, which is pleasantly spicy and can bring some heat to your kimchi if you’re after an extra kick.

Storage and Expiry

When it comes to fermenting store-bought kimchi, attention and care are essential. After purchasing your kimchi, place it in a shallow bowl with the lid halfway turned loose, and let it rest on the kitchen counter for 10 hours, but not exceeding 12 hours, all while avoiding direct sunlight and keeping it in a cool area.

Once fermented to your liking, store the kimchi in the refrigerator.

However, be cautious with potentially pasteurised store-bought kimchi – if it’s pasteurised, it can’t be fermented any further due to the absence of necessary bacteria. Keep an eye on the use-by date and be mindful of any changes in smell or mould growth, as these may be signs that your kimchi has gone past its prime.

Improving Texture

Store-bought kimchi can sometimes be a bit underwhelming in terms of texture, but fear not!

With a few simple tweaks and additions, you can elevate your kimchi to new heights of crunchy, satisfying delight. Let’s explore some tricks of the trade to transform the texture of your store-bought kimchi.

Draining Excess Liquid

It’s not uncommon to find store-bought kimchi swimming in more liquid than necessary.

While some moisture is essential for the fermentation and taste, too much liquid can create a soggy, limp kimchi experience that’s far from ideal. Time to put an end to the sogginess!

Simply use a sieve or colander to drain the excess liquid from your kimchi before adding it to your favourite dishes. By doing so, you’ll allow the true star of the show – the fermented vegetables – to shine in all their delicious glory.

Adding Crunchy Elements

Now that we’ve addressed the excess liquid issue, let’s focus on adding some crunch to your kimchi.

There are two primary ways to do this: adding extra vegetables and introducing crunchy toppings. Let’s dive into both options:

Extra Vegetables: One of the simplest ways to add crunch to your kimchi is by incorporating additional vegetables.

Try tossing in some thinly sliced carrots, radishes, or even cucumber to give your kimchi a refreshing, slightly sweet and crunchy boost.

These colourful additions not only enhance the texture but also add extra nutrients and visual appeal to your dishes.

Crunchy Toppings: Sometimes, adding a bit of crunch on top is just what your kimchi needs.

Consider topping your kimchi with crushed roasted peanuts, sesame seeds, or even crispy fried shallots for a delightful textural contrast. 

How To Improve Store Bought Kimchi: Enhancing Flavour

Store-bought kimchi can be a great starting point, but with a bit of culinary creativity, you can turn it into an even tastier treat.

Let’s dive into a few ways to elevate your store-bought kimchi by incorporating fresh ingredients and adjusting spices and seasonings.

Incorporating Fresh Ingredients

One of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your store-bought kimchi is by adding fresh ingredients. Try mixing in thinly sliced radishes or cucumbers, which will add both brightness and crunch to the dish.

Don’t be afraid to improvise and throw in your favourite veggies or herbs like spring onions, carrots, or even fresh mint for an unexpected twist.

Adjusting Spices and Seasonings

If you’re in the mood for a little heat, a pinch of extra red pepper flakes should do the trick nicely. And for those fond of a bit more umami in their kimchi, a dash of soy sauce can be a game changer.

If your kimchi is on the saltier side, simply add layers of radish or rinse the kimchi to balance out the flavour.