Kimchi and pickles are two common side dishes enjoyed in different parts of the world.
I would say these are two of my favorite dishes.
I love making kimchi fried rice or making green cabbage kimchi at home, and I also enjoy eating pickles alongside dal and rice.
However, is kimchi the same as a pickle or achar?
While both dishes are fermented and have a tangy taste, they are not the same.
In this article, we will explore the key similarities and differences between Kimchi and Achar.
Comparing Kimchi and Achar
Kimchi and achar are both traditional, fermented dishes that are popular in Korea and South Asia (India, Nepal), respectively.
Here are some of the key differences between Kimchi and Pickle:
Cultural Origin
- Kimchi: Kimchi has been a staple dish in Korea for centuries and is a traditional fermented side dish often made with napa cabbage, Korean radishes, and a variety of seasonings.
- Achar/Pickle: Achar, or Pickle, is a term that encompasses a variety of pickled dishes found in South Asian cuisine. It is a popular condiment in countries like India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and surrounding regions.
Base Ingredients
- Kimchi: The primary ingredient in Kimchi is typically napa cabbage, though many variations use different vegetables, such as Korean radishes or even green cabbage. The vegetables are seasoned with a mixture of chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and other spices.
- Achar/Pickle: Pickles or achar in South Asia can be made from a wide range of vegetables, fruits, or even meats. Common ingredients include mangoes, tomato, lime, carrots, cauliflower, and various spices like mustard seeds, fenugreek, turmeric, or even chicken and buff meat pickles.
Flavor Profile
- Kimchi: Kimchi has a distinctive spicy and tangy flavor resulting from the fermentation process and the use of ingredients like chili peppers, garlic, and ginger. Depending on the recipe, kimchi can be mild or very spicy.
- Achar/Pickle: The flavor of pickles can vary widely depending on the ingredients and the region. South Asian pickles often have a combination of sour, spicy, and savory flavors due to the use of souring agents like vinegar, lemon, or tamarind, along with various spices.
Fermentation Process
- Kimchi: Kimchi is typically fermented through lactic acid fermentation, which involves the activity of naturally present bacteria. The fermentation process contributes to the unique flavor and texture of Kimchi.
- Achar/Pickle: South Asian pickles can be fermented or non-fermented. Fermented pickles are often left to mature in the sun, while non-fermented pickles are made by marinating the ingredients in vinegar or other souring agents.
Usage
- Kimchi: Kimchi is commonly served as a side dish in Korean meals and is also an ingredient in various Korean dishes, such as stews, fried rice, and pancakes.
- Achar/Pickle: Pickles in South Asian cuisine are often served as condiments or accompaniments to main dishes, providing a burst of flavor to complement the meal.
While both kimchi and achar/pickle are forms of preserved and fermented vegetables, the specific ingredients, flavors, and cultural contexts make them distinct culinary experiences.
Benefits & Nutritional Profile
Kimchi and achar/pickle are both fermented foods that offer various health benefits.
However, their nutritional profile and benefits differ slightly.
Kimchi
Kimchi is a Korean dish made by fermenting vegetables with seasonings like garlic, ginger, and chili peppers.
It is a probiotic food that contains beneficial bacteria that promote gut health.
According to Healthline, Kimchi is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is a vegetarian and vegan food that can be enjoyed by people following plant-based diets.
Pickles/Achar
On the other hand, achar/pickle is a spicy South Asian condiment made by pickling vegetables or fruits in vinegar or lemon juice with spices like cumin, coriander, chili powder, and many more.
According to NDTV Food, achar/Pickle may contain high amounts of sodium and oil, which can be harmful if consumed in excess.
Traditional homemade varieties with minimal oil and sodium can provide similar gut and antioxidant benefits to Kimchi.
It’s essential to consume Kimchi and achar in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while kimchi and pickle achar are both fermented vegetable products, they have distinct differences in ingredients and origins.
Kimchi traditionally uses napa cabbage and Korean spices, while pickle achar features Indian spices.
Kimchi originated in Korea as a preservation method and is iconic to Korean cuisine. Pickle achar developed independently in South Asia as a condiment.
Though similar, Kimchi and Pickle achar each reflect the unique culinary heritages of their home regions of Korea and South Asia. They maintain separate identities as iconic foods.