Ultimate Gut-Friendly Cucumber Kimchi: A Flavorful Superfood for Digestion & Wellness
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that manages to be both bold in flavor and light on the stomach, and cucumber kimchi is exactly that. Unlike the longer fermentation process required for traditional napa cabbage kimchi, this version uses crisp cucumbers to deliver a refreshing crunch with every bite. In just a few easy steps, you transform everyday ingredients into something that tastes gourmet yet feels effortless.The real magic lies in the way the flavors come together. Garlic and ginger provide warmth and digestive support, Korean chili powder brings a smoky kick, and rice vinegar balances everything with its gentle tang. Each bite wakes up your palate while quietly working wonders for your gut health. This makes it a dish that doesn’t just satisfy hunger—it actively contributes to your wellness.What sets cucumber kimchi apart is its ability to fit into so many lifestyles. It’s low in calories, light on carbs, and completely oil-free, making it perfect for anyone watching their weight, managing blood sugar, or simply looking for a clean, refreshing side. It proves that healthy eating doesn’t need to be bland or boring—every forkful is vibrant, crunchy, and alive with flavor.Pair it with rice, enjoy it alongside grilled meats, or even snack on it straight from the bowl. No matter how you enjoy it, cucumber kimchi embodies the spirit of “Feast Big; Stay Fit”—a dish that gives you all the joy of food without weighing you down.
Ultimate Gut-Friendly Cucumber Kimchi: A Flavorful Superfood for Digestion & Wellness
Amount per Serving
Calories
28
% Daily Value*
Fat
0.4
g
1
%
Saturated Fat
0.1
g
1
%
Polyunsaturated Fat
0.2
g
Monounsaturated Fat
0.1
g
Cholesterol
2
mg
1
%
Sodium
180
mg
8
%
Potassium
145
mg
4
%
Carbohydrates
5
g
2
%
Fiber
1
g
4
%
Sugar
3
g
3
%
Protein
2
g
4
%
Vitamin A
636
IU
13
%
Vitamin C
2
mg
2
%
Calcium
20
mg
2
%
Iron
1
mg
6
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
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Cooking Intructions
Slice 2 cucumbers in half lengthwise, then cut crosswise into ⅛-inch thick half moons (about 2 cups). Place in a medium bowl and mix with 1 tsp salt. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
8 oz Cucumber, 1 tsp Salt
In a medium non-reactive bowl, combine 2 cloves garlic (2 tsp), ¼ cup scallions, 1 tsp ginger, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp gochugaru, 2 tsp sugar, ½ tsp fish sauce.
2 tsp Garlic, 1 tsp Fresh Ginger, 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar, 1 tbsp Korean Chili Powder, 2 tsp Sugar, 1/2 tsp Fish Sauce
Drain cucumbers (discard the liquid), then stir cucumbers into the vinegar–spice mixture until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours before serving for the best flavor.
Notes
Storage & Fermentation
This cucumber kimchi is best enjoyed within 2–3 days as cucumbers release water and lose crunch over time.
Store in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator.
If you prefer a more fermented tang, let it sit for 2–3 days, but taste daily to ensure it doesn’t get overly sour.
Spice Adjustments 🌶️
Milder version: Use only ½ tbsp gochugaru or replace with paprika.
Spicier kick: Add fresh sliced green chili or keep chili seeds in.
For kids or sensitive stomachs, reduce chili and increase vinegar for a zesty, less hot version.
Substitutions
Fish sauce alternative: Use soy sauce, tamari, or coconut aminos for a vegan-friendly kimchi.
Sweetener: Sugar can be swapped with honey, maple syrup, or stevia depending on your diet needs.
Vinegar: Rice vinegar works best, but apple cider vinegar can give extra gut-friendly probiotics.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
Enjoy as a side dish with rice, noodles, or grilled meats.
Add it into sandwiches, wraps, or tacos for a tangy crunch.
Toss with leafy greens for a quick kimchi salad.
Nutritional & Health Benefits 💪
Cucumbers are hydrating and low in calories, making this dish weight-loss friendly.
Garlic, ginger, and scallions support digestion and immunity.
Minimal oil, natural probiotics, and light seasoning make it suitable for diabetic, low-calorie, and low-fat diets.
