Every time I head to Google to ask what the latest food craze is, it always hits me with kimchi facts. It seems that the popularity of this Korean dish is growing day by day.

You can make kimchi yourself, in fact so many people started fermenting their veg last year that it created a shortage in canning jar lids due to the massive increase in demand. But getting that mix of spices right to achieve kimchi’s distinctively punchy flavour isn’t easy.  It’s simpler to buy it – plus you experience the authentic taste too.

STAYING TRUE TO THE NATIONAL DISH

Our Frodsham and Heswall stores stock The Cultured Collective Classic Kimchi, and it’s available for local delivery too. Sorry guys if you live further afield – you’ll just have to pay us a visit!

The Classic Kimchi is piquant, spicy and oh so moreish with a hint of smokiness. In every jar you’ll discover a unique aromatic spice blend coating fresh Chinese leaf cabbage, carrot, spring onion and mooli radish.

The Cultured Collective is a relatively new brand – established in 2016 - specialising in kimchi and sauerkraut. While being true to authentic flavours, they have mastered the art of combining modern scientific knowledge with health boosting ingredients.

Their kimchi is unlike their larger brand competitors as The Cultured Collective produce it raw and unpasteurised. This method keeps the good bacteria alive and kicking!

DON'T BE PUT OFF BY THE WORD "FERMENTED"

Weirdly, the word fermented gives some people the shivers. I have to admit, the phrase ‘fermented vegetables’ doesn’t exactly sound appetising. But it’s all around us. We consume fermented stuff all the time, things like beer, wine, cheese and bread.

All it means is that good bacteria has been added to deliver a wondrous depth of flavour.

SO, IS KIMCHI GOOD FOR ME?

You’re right, it is. And here are some surprising health benefits:

• It’s full of nutrients. It’s packed with vitamins A, C & K, minerals, and amino acids. The fermentation process actually makes it easier for the body to absorb all this goodness too.
• It’s probiotic and can help fight inflammation.
• It strengthens our immune system.
• Believe it or not, many reports suggest that it can slow down the ageing process.
• Add it to your healthy routine to aid weight loss.
• It’s heart friendly.

Go on, try it. It’s delicious on its own straight out of the jar (yes, I’ve done that), mixed with rice, made into a pasta sauce, added to soup, or you can pop it in a hearty stew.