Kimchi

Korea is back in the news.  Mom, calm down, it's not for the usual North Korea vs. South Korea antics. It is for something far less exciting: kimchi.  Specifically, the startling lack of kimchi in Korea. Now I know I have referenced kimchi in my earlier posts but here's a little refresher for any new readers to my blog.  Kimchi is basically a fermented, spicy, cabbage.  It doesn't sound the most appealing, but after almost 8 months here it is something I look for at mealtimes.

This Korean staple has made the news because of a nationwide shortage of this delectable little side dish.  Said best by the Washington Post, kimchi is becoming scarce due to, "a freakish combination of cold temperatures in the spring, an extreme heat wave in the summer and torrential rains in September."  This paticular combination has ruined a large portion of cabbage crops that generally go into making every Korean's favorite side dish.  To make this hit home for those who don't understand the craving for kimchi, just try to imagine if America suddenly ran out of potatoes.  No baked potatoes.  No homemade mashed potatoes at  Thanksgiving this year.  You would be just as sad as these poor Koreans.

Or as these poor English teachers who have grown to love their kimchi.  Myself included.