Why make this recipe
Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade is a delightful way to bring a burst of flavor to your dishes. This unique twist on traditional kimchi combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spicy kick of gochugaru. It’s easy to make and adds a sweet and spicy punch to any meal. Plus, making your own marinade allows you to control the ingredients and adjust the spices to your personal taste.
How to make Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pineapple, chopped
- 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped pineapple, napa cabbage, and green onions.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the garlic, ginger, gochugaru, fish sauce, sugar, soy sauce, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the pineapple and cabbage, and toss to combine.
- Let the kimchi marinade sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

How to serve Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade
You can serve Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade as a side dish or as a topping for various meals. It pairs well with grilled meats, rice, or as a topping for tacos. You can also add it to salads or sandwiches for an unexpected kick.
How to store Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade
Keep the marinade in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to two weeks. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier over time.
Tips to make Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade
- Make sure to chop the pineapple and napa cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces for easier mixing and eating.
- Adjust the amount of gochugaru based on your preference for spiciness.
- Letting the marinade sit longer than 30 minutes will enhance the flavor even more.
- If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
Variation
You can experiment with different fruits like mango or peaches for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you can add other vegetables like carrots or cucumbers for extra crunch.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pineapple instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned pineapple. Just be sure to drain it well before chopping.
2. Is Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade spicy?
Yes, it can be spicy due to the gochugaru, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
3. How long can I keep the kimchi marinade?
You can store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Just ensure it is in an airtight container.

Spicy Pineapple Kimchi Marinade
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup pineapple, chopped
- 1 cup napa cabbage, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) Adjust based on spiciness preference.
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce Can substitute with soy sauce for a vegetarian option.
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- to taste salt Salt to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped pineapple, napa cabbage, and green onions.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the garlic, ginger, gochugaru, fish sauce, sugar, soy sauce, and salt.
- Pour the mixture over the pineapple and cabbage, and toss to combine.
- Let the kimchi marinade sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.