In Korea, we have oiji, and in America, we have pickles! But how is the best way to eat pickles?

When living in America, there's one thing that always comes out at restaurants.
Next to hamburgers, inside sandwiches, and even served alongside chicken, it's that little something.
That's right, it's pickles.

When I first saw pickles in America, I thought, "Why is this here?"
In Korea, kimchi or oiji is strongly associated with being a side dish for rice.
But here, pickles are a must-have with beef, chicken, and even hot dogs.

Today, I want to talk about this pickle, which is similar to Korean oiji but is used more universally in America.
I will also share my honest experience on how to eat pickles for the best flavor.

First, let's briefly clarify what pickles are.
The word "pickle" comes from the English word meaning 'to brine',
and anything brined, whether it's cucumbers, radishes, onions, carrots, or even eggs and fruits, can be considered a pickle.

However, when Americans say "pickles", they usually refer to cucumbers that are brined in vinegar, salt, and spices.
While Korean oiji is fermented in saltwater, American pickles are vinegar-based and kept refrigerated to maintain their crunchiness.

If you go to an American grocery store, you might be surprised by the variety of pickles available.

• Dill Pickles: The most basic type. Pickles with dill herb flavor.

• Kosher Pickles: Pickles made in the traditional Jewish way. They have a strong garlic flavor.

• Bread & Butter Pickles: Sweet pickles. They are slightly sweet, making them appealing to Korean tastes.

• Sweet Pickles: Completely sweet pickles. Often included in salads.

• Spicy Pickles: A version with added spiciness. They pair well with hamburgers or barbecues.

Personally, I think Bread & Butter Pickles are the most universally appealing and delicious for Koreans.

In fact, pickles are tasty just to eat on their own. However, if you don't know "why pickles are there", their presence can feel strange.
They are not just for palate cleansing. Pickles are a natural detox item that helps cut through the greasiness and richness of food.

Eating with hamburgers

The thicker and greasier the patty, the more pickles act as a reset for your palate as you chew.
Having one or two pieces inside the burger isn't just for show. When eating a double burger or barbecue burger, add one or two more pickles on the side.

Eating alongside sandwiches

When you order a deli sandwich, you sometimes get a long slice of cucumber pickle. Try alternating bites with the sandwich. Adding a bite of pickle to the meat and cheese combination cuts the richness and enhances the savory flavor with a tangy taste.

With fried foods

Pickles almost always accompany greasy foods like chicken wings, hot dogs, and barbecue ribs. Especially with hot dogs, it feels incomplete without pickles. When topped with onions, mustard, and chopped pickles, it finally becomes a true American dish.

Adding to salads or mayonnaise-based dishes

Chop pickles and add them to potato salad, tuna mayo, or egg salad? It improves the texture and reduces the richness, making it much fresher. Adding a bit of pickle juice to your dressing creates a real umami flavor. You can even use this instead of vinegar when making Korean side dishes.

Just snacking on them

Taking one out of the fridge and eating it as a snack is perfect for cleansing your palate after a greasy meal. Especially in the hot summer, eating one or two pickles can stimulate your appetite and aid digestion.

Pickles have become a staple in American food culture, going beyond just a simple side dish.

Just like kimchi and oiji have for us.