Kim Chee Dip From Sheldon Simeon

  • For the Kim Chee Dip:
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 6 ounces cabbage kim chee, roughly chopped (about ¾ cup), with juice reserved
  • 1 teaspoon sugar, plus more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon kochugaru Korean chile flakes, plus more to taste
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon fried garlic
  • Wonton chips, crackers, Doritos (Cool Ranch preferred), Fritos, Tostitos, or any other available -ito, for serving
  • For the Microwave Fried Garlic:
  • 1 heaping tablespoon minced garlic (about 4 cloves)
  • Neutral oil
  • Kosher salt
  • Sugar
  1. For the Microwave Fried Garlic:
  2. Place the garlic in a microwave-safe bowl and add enough oil to cover (at least 3 tablespoons). Microwave for 1 minute, then stir. Repeat, stirring and microwaving in 30-second increments until the garlic begins to brown. Then repeat, stirring and microwaving in 15-second increments, until the garlic is deep gold. (This could take between 2 and 4 minutes total, depending on your microwave. In a sieve set over a bowl, drain the garlic, reserving the oil. Transfer the garlic to a plate lined with paper towels and season with a pinch each of salt and sugar. Set aside to cool.