Savory Kimchi Oats

• •1.5 cups Rolled Oats (not instant)
• •4.5 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth
• •1.5 cups Aged Kimchi, chopped
• •0.3 cup Kimchi Juice
• •2 tbsp Sesame Oil
• •2 cloves Garlic, minced
• •1 tbsp Fresh Ginger, grated
• •1 cup Cremini or Shiitake Mushrooms, sliced
• •2 tbsp Soy Sauce (or Tamari for GF)
• •2 stalks Green Onions, sliced (for garnish)
• •1 tsp Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
• •to taste Salt
• •to taste Black Pepper
• •4 Eggs (fried or soft-boiled, optional)
• •0.5 tsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large saucepan or pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

2. 2

   Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and released their moisture. If using gochugaru, add it now and stir for 15 seconds.

3. 3

   Stir in the chopped kimchi and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly and deepen in flavor.

4. 4

   Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the kimchi juice. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the soy sauce.

5. 5

   Add the rolled oats to the simmering liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If the oats become too thick, add a splash more broth or water.

6. 6

   While the oats are cooking, prepare your optional toppings. If using eggs, fry or soft-boil them to your preference. Slice the green onions and have the toasted sesame seeds ready.

7. 7

   Once the oats are cooked, remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. You may also add another splash of sesame oil for extra richness.

8. 8

   Ladle the Savory Kimchi Oats into serving bowls. Top each serving with a fried or soft-boiled egg (if using), a generous sprinkle of sliced green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡**Don't use instant oats:** For the best texture and flavor, use old-fashioned rolled oats. Instant oats will become too mushy.
• 💡**Adjust spice level:** The spiciness will depend on your kimchi. For extra heat, add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) with the mushrooms.
• 💡**Customize your toppings:** While eggs, green onions, and sesame seeds are classic, feel free to add other toppings like a drizzle of chili oil, shredded nori (seaweed), or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
• 💡**For a richer flavor:** Using a good quality broth (chicken or vegetable) instead of just water will significantly enhance the depth of flavor in your oats.
• 💡**Fermentation matters:** The flavor of your kimchi will greatly influence the final dish. Well-fermented, slightly sour kimchi works best for this recipe.