Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a spicy and tangy side dish made of fermented vegetables, primarily cabbage, and is known for its unique flavor and health benefits. In recent years, kimchi has gained popularity in the West, as people have discovered its delicious taste and numerous health benefits. A good friend of mine from a previous time got me hooked on Kimchi, thanks Jean. Here is the recipe I use to make sure I get that authentic Korean taste.
Kimchi is not only delicious, but it is also very easy to make at home. The following is a simple recipe for making your own kimchi.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium-sized Napa cabbage (about 2-3 pounds)
- 1/4 cup of salt
- 4-5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 3 tablespoons of Korean red pepper flakes (Gochugaru)
- 2 tablespoons of fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian version)
- 1 bunch of scallions, chopped
- 1/2 cup of grated daikon radish (optional)
Instructions:
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Cut the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Sprinkle salt over the cabbage and mix well. Let the cabbage sit for 2-3 hours to release its juices.
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After the cabbage has wilted, rinse it thoroughly with cold water and drain it well.
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In a separate bowl, mix together the garlic, ginger, sugar, red pepper flakes, and fish sauce.
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Add the scallions and daikon radish to the spice mixture and mix well.
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Add the spice mixture to the cabbage and mix well, making sure the cabbage is evenly coated with the spice mixture.
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Transfer the kimchi to a clean glass jar, pressing down on the cabbage as you go to release any air bubbles.
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Leave the jar at room temperature for 1-2 days to allow the kimchi to ferment. You can taste it every day until it reaches the desired level of sourness.
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Once the kimchi is fermented to your liking, store it in the refrigerator, where it will continue to ferment slowly. Kimchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to several months.
Kimchi is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own as a side dish or added to soups, stews, and rice dishes for added flavor and nutrition. It is also an excellent source of probiotics, which promote digestive health and boost the immune system. Making your own kimchi is a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy this delicious and healthy dish at home.
If you are interested in Fermented foods see this article on their amazing health benefits.
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