Spicy Kimchi Cheddar Spread
Dive into a unique twist on a Southern classic with this Spicy Kimchi Cheddar Spread. This delightful fusion combines the creamy richness of traditional pimento cheese with the bold, tangy kick of homemade cabbage kimchi. Perfect for elevating any gathering, this spread is not just a dip; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds with layers of flavor. Pair it with crispy homemade potato chips or crunchy chicharrones for a snack that promises to delight. Inspired by culinary traditions and modern innovation, this dish is a celebration of creativity in the kitchen. Let the flavors mingle overnight for the best results, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for your next cocktail party or barbecue.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
cream cheese
1/2 lb (room temperature)
cabbage kimchi
1 cup (drained and finely chopped)
hot sauce
1 tablespoon (preferably Tabasco)
mayonnaise
1/3 cup
apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons
sharp cheddar cheese
3/4 lb (grated, preferably Tillamook)
diced pimento pepper
1 (4 ounce) jar (drained)
Instructions
1
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium speed until it's completely smooth and slightly aerated, about 2 minutes.
2
While the cream cheese is mixing, squeeze excess liquid from the kimchi using your hands or by pressing it through a sieve. This step ensures your dip won’t be too watery. Pulse the drained kimchi in a food processor or chop it finely with a knife.
3
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the hot sauce, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of the reserved kimchi liquid until well combined.
4
With the mixer running on medium speed, gradually add the grated sharp cheddar cheese to the cream cheese and mix for about one minute. Stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl, then continue mixing for another minute until fully incorporated.
5
Slowly drizzle the prepared sauce mixture into the cheese blend without stopping the mixer, and mix until everything is well blended and creamy.
6
Carefully fold in the diced pimentos and chopped kimchi using a rubber spatula, stirring gently to preserve the texture.
7
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container, cover, and refrigerate for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to develop and intensify.
8
Prior to serving, let the spread sit at room temperature for about one hour to enhance its creamy texture.
9
Serve with your favorite potato chips or crispy chicharrones for an irresistible snack.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Kimchi Cheddar Spread?
Spicy Kimchi Cheddar Spread is a fusion twist on a Southern classic, combining the creamy richness of pimento cheese with the tangy kick of cabbage kimchi.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
This recipe requires 7 main ingredients: cream cheese, cabbage kimchi, hot sauce, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sharp cheddar cheese, and diced pimento peppers.
What type of cheese works best for this spread?
The recipe recommends using 3/4 lb of grated sharp cheddar cheese, preferably the Tillamook brand.
How long should I beat the cream cheese?
Beat the room temperature cream cheese on medium speed for about 2 minutes until it is completely smooth and aerated.
Why do I need to squeeze the kimchi?
Squeezing the kimchi to remove excess liquid ensures that the dip does not become too watery.
Should I save the kimchi liquid?
Yes, you should reserve 2 tablespoons of the kimchi liquid to whisk into the sauce mixture.
What specific hot sauce is recommended?
The recipe suggests using one tablespoon of hot sauce, preferably Tabasco.
How long should the spread be refrigerated?
The mixture should be refrigerated in an airtight container for at least 12 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
What should I serve with Kimchi Cheddar Spread?
It pairs perfectly with crispy homemade potato chips or crunchy chicharrones.
Should the spread be served cold?
For the best texture, let the spread sit at room temperature for about one hour before serving to enhance its creaminess.
How much mayonnaise is needed?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of mayonnaise.
Can I use a food processor for the kimchi?
Yes, you can pulse the drained kimchi in a food processor or chop it finely with a knife.
How much apple cider vinegar is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
What is the preparation for the pimento peppers?
Use one 4-ounce jar of diced pimento peppers, making sure they are drained before adding them to the mix.
Which mixer attachment should I use?
A stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment is recommended for this recipe.
When should I add the cheddar cheese?
Add the grated cheddar cheese gradually to the cream cheese while the mixer is running on medium speed.
What is the final step in mixing?
The final step is to carefully fold in the diced pimentos and chopped kimchi using a rubber spatula.
Can I use store-bought kimchi?
Yes, although the description mentions homemade, any quality cabbage kimchi will work as long as it is drained and chopped.
How much cream cheese is required?
You will need 1/2 lb of cream cheese at room temperature.
Is this a spicy recipe?
Yes, it contains hot sauce and kimchi, providing a bold and tangy kick.
What culinary traditions inspired this dish?
It is inspired by a blend of Southern pimento cheese traditions and Korean cabbage kimchi.
How much kimchi does the recipe call for?
The recipe requires 1 cup of cabbage kimchi.
Why should I scrape down the bowl?
Scraping down the sides ensures that the cream cheese and cheddar are fully incorporated without lumps.
Can I make this for a barbecue?
Yes, it is suggested as a perfect make-ahead dish for cocktail parties or barbecues.
What tags define this recipe?
Tags include kimchi, pimento cheese, cheese spread, fusion recipe, appetizer, Southern cuisine, and Korean cuisine.
How should I add the sauce mixture to the cheese?
Slowly drizzle the prepared sauce mixture into the cheese blend without stopping the mixer until it is creamy.
Is the cheddar cheese pre-shredded?
The recipe specifies 3/4 lb of grated cheese, which usually implies grating it fresh for better texture.
What is the texture of the finished spread?
The spread is creamy and rich, but with added texture from the folded-in pimentos and chopped kimchi.
Does this recipe contain sugar?
According to the nutritional data provided, the sugar content is null or not specified.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
The recipe specifically calls for apple cider vinegar to achieve the desired flavor profile.