Pickled radish facts for kids
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| Alternative names | Chikin-mu (chicken radish) |
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| Type | Pickle |
| Place of origin | South Korea |
| Associated national cuisine | Korean cuisine |
| Main ingredients | Radish |
| Ingredients generally used | Vinegar, sugar, salt |
| Other information | Served with fried chicken |
Pickled radish, known as chikin-mu (Hangul: 치킨무) in Korean, is a popular side dish from South Korea. It is made from radish and has a crisp, refreshing taste. This special pickle is almost always served with Korean fried chicken.
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What is Chikin-mu?
Chikin-mu literally means "chicken radish" in Korean. It got this name because it is the perfect partner for Korean fried chicken. Imagine eating something crispy and a bit oily; the cool, tangy radish helps to clean your palate. It makes each bite of chicken taste fresh again!
A Common Korean Side Dish
In Korea, chikin-mu is a type of banchan. Banchan are small side dishes served with almost every Korean meal. They are often free and can be refilled at restaurants. This means you can eat as much chikin-mu as you like when you dine out in South Korea!
How is Pickled Radish Made?
Making chikin-mu is quite simple. The main ingredient is Korean radish, which is a large, white radish. It is different from the small red radishes you might see in salads.
Simple Ingredients
The radish is cut into small, bite-sized cubes. Then, it is soaked in a special liquid. This liquid is usually a mix of vinegar, sugar, and salt. Sometimes, a little water is added too. The vinegar gives it a sour taste, the sugar adds sweetness, and the salt balances everything out.
The Pickling Process
The radish cubes sit in this sweet and sour liquid for a while. This process is called pickling. It helps the radish become crunchy and absorb all the delicious flavors. Pickling also helps to preserve the radish, so it stays fresh longer.
Why is it So Popular?
Chikin-mu is loved for many reasons. Its unique taste and texture make it a great addition to meals.
Perfect with Fried Chicken
The main reason for its popularity is how well it pairs with Korean fried chicken. Fried chicken can be rich and savory. The pickled radish offers a refreshing contrast. Its tangy, slightly sweet, and crunchy texture cuts through the richness of the chicken. This makes every bite enjoyable and keeps you wanting more.
Refreshing and Crunchy
The radish stays very crunchy even after being pickled. This crunchiness adds a fun texture to your meal. The cool, refreshing taste is also very pleasant, especially on a warm day or after eating spicy food. It's like a little burst of freshness with every piece of chicken.
