Tangy and Sweet Fermented Pineapple Kimchi Made Easy Recipe
Introduction
Discover the vibrant flavors of tangy and sweet fermented pineapple kimchi, a refreshing twist on a traditional Korean favorite. This easy recipe combines fresh pineapple with aromatic spices to create a unique and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal.

Ingredients
- 1 medium fresh pineapple (peeled and sliced into thick rings)
- 3 cloves garlic (thinly sliced)
- 4 stalks green onions (finely chopped)
- 3 tablespoons fish sauce (or substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 2 teaspoons salt (2% of combined weight of pineapple and water)
- Clean water (enough to cover the pineapple in the jar)
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel the fresh pineapple and slice it into 1 cm (0.39 inches) thick rings.
- Step 2: Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Finely chop the green onions and grate the fresh ginger.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple rings, green onions, ginger, fish sauce, and gochugaru. Stir gently to meld the flavors.
- Step 4: Transfer the mixture into a sanitized glass jar, packing it well, and cover with clean water.
- Step 5: Calculate the total weight of the pineapple and water, then add salt at a rate of 2% of this weight. Stir gently to dissolve the salt.
- Step 6: Press the pineapple down gently to submerge it beneath the brine. Seal the jar loosely to allow gases to escape during fermentation.
- Step 7: Place the jar in a warm area (65-75°F) and allow it to ferment for 8-10 days.
- Step 8: Once fermentation is complete, transfer the kimchi to the refrigerator to slow fermentation and preserve the flavor.
- Step 9: Optional: Garnish with sesame seeds before serving for added texture and flavor.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the amount of gochugaru to make the kimchi milder or spicier according to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, replace fish sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
- Use a weight scale to accurately measure salt for ideal fermentation without over-salting.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, reduce fermentation time to 5-7 days.
Storage
Store the fermented pineapple kimchi in the refrigerator in an airtight jar. It will keep well for up to 3 weeks. For best flavor, consume within the first two weeks. When serving, use clean utensils to avoid contamination. You can enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Fresh pineapple is recommended for this recipe because canned pineapple is often packed in syrup, which can interfere with fermentation and result in a different taste and texture.
How do I know when the kimchi is ready?
The kimchi is ready when it develops a slightly sour aroma and tangy flavor, typically after 8-10 days of fermentation at room temperature. You may notice bubbling or fizzing, which is a sign of active fermentation.
PrintTangy and Sweet Fermented Pineapple Kimchi Made Easy Recipe
A tangy and sweet fermented pineapple kimchi that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and Korean spices. This easy-to-make kimchi offers a unique twist on traditional recipes, featuring a refreshing balance of spicy, sour, and salty notes, perfect as a side dish or a flavorful addition to your meals.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 8-10 days (including fermentation)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Fermenting
- Cuisine: Korean Fusion
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 1 medium Fresh Pineapple (peeled and sliced into thick rings)
- 3 cloves Garlic (thinly sliced)
- 4 stalks Green Onions (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger (grated fresh)
- 3 tablespoons Fish Sauce (or substitute with soy sauce for vegetarian option)
Brine
- 2 teaspoons Salt (2% of combined weight of pineapple and water)
- Clean Water (enough to cover the pineapple in jar)
Instructions
- Prepare Pineapple and Aromatics: Peel the fresh pineapple and slice it into 1 cm (0.39 inches) thick rings. Peel and thinly slice the garlic cloves. Finely chop the green onions and grate the fresh ginger to prepare for mixing.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pineapple rings, green onions, grated ginger, fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option), and gochugaru. Stir gently to blend the flavors without damaging the pineapple slices.
- Pack into Jar and Add Water: Transfer the pineapple mixture into a sanitized glass jar, packing it well. Cover the mixture completely with clean water ensuring it is submerged under the brine.
- Add Salt for Brining: Weigh the combined pineapple and water in the jar, then calculate 2% of this weight and add corresponding amount of salt. Stir gently or shake the jar slightly to dissolve the salt fully into the brine.
- Submerge and Seal: Press the pineapple gently to keep it submerged beneath the brine. Seal the jar loosely to allow gases to escape during fermentation.
- Ferment: Place the jar in a warm area between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Allow it to ferment for 8-10 days, checking occasionally to ensure pineapple remains submerged.
- Refrigerate: After 8-10 days fermentation, transfer the kimchi jar to the refrigerator to slow fermentation and enhance flavor development.
- Serve: Optionally, garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving for added texture and aroma.
Notes
- Adjust gochugaru amount based on your spice preference; start with less if you prefer milder kimchi.
- Using fish sauce gives a traditional umami flavor; substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian version.
- Ensure pineapple is fully submerged in brine to prevent spoilage during fermentation.
- Fermentation time may vary depending on room temperature and personal taste preferences.
- This pineapple kimchi pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, or as a refreshing condiment.
Keywords: pineapple kimchi, fermented kimchi, Korean kimchi, pineapple side dish, fermented pineapple, spicy pineapple, vegetarian kimchi

