Kimchi as comfort food — exactly what I needed

Some dishes exist to comfort and Kimchi is absolutely in that category. The sweet, spicy, and savoury at once quality works on something almost primal — you feel the warmth of it immediately. doenjang fermented soy does work that no substitute can replicate.

the communal banchan side dishes are as important as the main. There's something about the a Korean barbecue restaurant with table grills context that reinforces the comfort effect. makgeolli rice wine alongside is the traditional way and it makes complete sense. I come back to this dish when I need something dependable and restorative.