South Korean Dish

Kimchi

김치

Also known as: gimchi, kimchee, Korean fermented cabbage

What is Kimchi?

Korea's iconic fermented vegetable side dish, most commonly made with napa cabbage seasoned with gochugaru, garlic, ginger, and jeotgal (salted seafood). Over 100 varieties exist, served with virtually every Korean meal.

Typical Ingredients

napa cabbage
gochugaru
garlic
ginger
fish sauce
salt
sugar
scallions

Allergen Information

Always confirm with restaurant staff before ordering.

Soy
Sometimes Present
Fish
Often Present
Sesame
Sometimes Present
Shellfish
Often Present

Almost all traditional kimchi contains fish sauce and/or saeujeot (fermented shrimp paste). These are hidden allergens in an otherwise vegetable dish.

Safer Variations

Allergen-friendly alternatives to ask for.

Ask for vegan kimchi (no fish sauce or shrimp paste)
White kimchi (baek-kimchi) may be milder but still check

Questions to Ask Staff

Important questions to confirm with restaurant staff.

Does the kimchi contain fish sauce?
Is saeujeot (shrimp paste) used?
Do you have vegan kimchi?

More South Korean Dishes

Good for These Diets

Based on this dish's typical allergen profile, it may be suitable for:

Eating South Korean food with intolerances?

Scan any menu, focus on dishes that may fit your needs, and know what to ask before ordering.

Important Disclaimer

Niblu helps narrow your choices, but it does not provide a safety verdict. Ingredients, recipes, substitutions, preparation, and cross-contact can vary. Always confirm important details with restaurant staff before ordering.