I Was Told That This Is Better Than Msg, So We Tried On Steaks!

Introduction

Kimchi, the iconic Korean food, holds a special place in the hearts (and taste buds) of many. Its unique flavors and vibrant colors make it instantly recognizable and oh-so-mouthwatering. But have you ever wondered what it would be like to combine kimchi with another culinary delight, like steak? Well, wonder no more! In this article, we will delve into the art of making kimchi and explore how it can elevate the flavors of a perfectly cooked steak. Get ready for a culinary adventure like no other!

The Kimchi Process

Before we can dive into the mouthwatering combination of kimchi and steak, let's first uncover the secrets of making this beloved Korean dish. Kimchi begins with the humble napa cabbage. To prepare it, you need to master a specific technique – cutting it in half and breaking it apart with precision. Once quartered, each leaf is salted individually to ensure maximum flavor absorption.

Next comes the magic ingredient: sweet rice flour. By boiling water and combining it with the flour, you create a slurry that thickens as it reaches a boil. This slurry, along with a blend of onions, ginger, garlic, and rice paste, forms the base of the kimchi. It is then mixed with a medley of flavors: fish sauce, cochicado (Korean chili flakes), green onions, carrots, and Korean radish. All these ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors that will make your taste buds sing.

But wait, making kimchi isn't as simple as mixing everything together. After letting the base sit for a while, it's time to coat each leaf of the cabbage with the paste. Ensuring that every leaf is fully covered is crucial to achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Once coated, the cabbage is tucked into a container to undergo the fermentation process. Yes, making kimchi requires time and patience, but the end result is well worth the wait.

The Kimchi-Infused Steaks

Now, let's get to the juicy part – the steaks! We start with three beautiful cuts, each one and a half inches thick and with magnificent marbling. The first steak is our control, left untouched to showcase the true flavor of a perfectly seasoned, well-cooked piece of beef. The second steak is where things start to get interesting. We generously add the kimchi paste to coat the steak, infusing it with the bold flavors of this Korean delight. And finally, the third steak takes it up another level – a kimchi compound butter is created by blending kimchi and butter together, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness.

To allow the flavors to infuse, we vacuum seal the steaks and cook them at 135 degrees Fahrenheit for two hours. As they cook, anticipation builds, and the aroma of the kimchi tantalizes our senses. Meanwhile, Chef Brian, our dedicated kimchi enthusiast, prepares a mouthwatering Korean side dish to complement the steaks.

The Perfect Pairing: Kimchi Steak and Korean Potato Salad

Our taste buds are tingling as we sit down to finally savor the fruits of our labor. The control steak is the first to be enjoyed, and it impresses with its perfectly balanced seasoning and tender texture. But it's the kimchi-infused steak that steals the show. The compound butter, with its nutty flavor and subtle heat from the kimchi, elevates the taste to new heights. It is a flavor explosion that takes the steak from great to extraordinary.

To accompany the steaks, Chef Brian whips up a Korean potato salad that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Cubed spam and smoked pineapple add a unique twist to this classic dish, while the creaminess of the potatoes and the tanginess of the barbecue sauce create a flavor symphony that dances on the palate.

Conclusion: A Memorable Culinary Journey

As our culinary adventure comes to a close, we can't help but reflect on the flavors and experiences we've savored. The combination of kimchi and steak proved to be a match made in culinary heaven. The richness and depth of flavor that kimchi brings to the table is truly remarkable, and when paired with a perfectly cooked steak, it becomes an unforgettable dining experience.

So, whether you're a fan of Korean cuisine or simply curious to explore new flavors, we highly recommend giving kimchi a try. And why stop there? Experiment with incorporating kimchi into your favorite dishes and discover the magic it can add to your culinary creations. Get ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey that will leave you craving more. Bon appétit!