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Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 49 reviews
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 4 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Korean Fusion

Description

Spicy Pineapple Kimchi is a vibrant and refreshing Korean-inspired side dish that combines sweet, tangy pineapple with a bold, spicy kimchi marinade. This easy no-cook recipe blends diced pineapple with a flavorful mix of gochugaru, fish sauce, Asian pear, garlic, ginger, and sugar, delivering a unique fusion of sweet heat and fermented-inspired flavors perfect for a summer snack or accompaniment to any meal.


Ingredients

For the Pineapple:

  • 1 whole pineapple, diced into 1-inch pieces

For the Kimchi Marinade:

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes, recommended Mother-in-Law’s Kimchi brand)
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup diced Asian pear
  • 2 tsp chopped fresh ginger
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce (recommended Red Boat brand)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pineapple: Trim, peel, and dice the pineapple into 1-inch cubes, removing any eyes and tough parts to ensure tender, flavorful bites. Set aside.
  2. Make the Kimchi Marinade: In a blender, combine the diced Asian pear, gochugaru, fish sauce, finely chopped garlic, granulated sugar, and minced ginger. Blend until smooth and aromatic, forming the kimchi marinade.
  3. Marinate the Pineapple: Place the pineapple cubes in a large pickling jar or lidded container. Pour 1 cup of the blended kimchi marinade over the pineapple and stir thoroughly, ensuring every piece is well coated.
  4. Refrigerate and Infuse Flavors: Refrigerate the pineapple mixture for 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the pineapple to absorb the spicy marinade.
  5. Serve and Store: Serve the pineapple kimchi chilled as a refreshing, spicy-sweet side dish or snack. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Notes

  • This recipe requires no cooking or fermenting, making it quick and easy to prepare.
  • If you prefer less heat, adjust the amount of gochugaru accordingly.
  • Use a ripe, sweet pineapple for best flavor balance with the spicy marinade.
  • Ensure the container used for marinating seals well to keep flavors fresh in the refrigerator.
  • Consume within one week for optimal freshness and flavor.