Kimchi
This authentic Napa cabbage kimchi is a vibrant, fermented masterpiece bursting with tangy, spicy, and savory umami flavors. It is the ultimate probiotic-rich side dish that provides a satisfying crunch and complex heat to any meal.
Prep
120m
Cook
15m
Serves
12
1 Ingredients
| Qty | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 heads 2 kg | Napa Cabbage |
| 0.5 cup 120 g | Coarse Sea Salt |
| 2 cups 480 ml | Water |
| 2 tbsp 16 g | Glutinous Rice Flour |
| 1 tbsp 12 g | White Sugar |
| 10 cloves 30 g | Garlic Cloves |
| 1 tsp 5 g | Fresh Ginger |
| 0.25 piece 50 g | Onion |
| 0.5 cup 120 ml | Fish Sauce |
| 1 cup 100 g | Korean Chili Flakes (Gochugaru) |
| 1 cup 150 g | Daikon Radish |
| 8 stalks 8 stalks | Green Onions |
| 1 large 100 g | Carrot |
2 Method
Step 1. Slice the Napa cabbage into quarters lengthwise. Sprinkle the coarse salt between each leaf, focusing on the thicker stems. Let sit for 2 hours, turning every 30 minutes until the leaves are flexible.
Step 2. While the cabbage wilts, whisk the water and glutinous rice flour in a small pot over medium heat. Stir until it bubbles and thickens into a translucent paste. Stir in the sugar and cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
Step 3. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, ginger, onion, and fish sauce. Blend until smooth.
Step 4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rice porridge, the blended spice paste, and the Gochugaru. Mix well to form a thick, red paste.
Step 5. Add the julienned radish, carrots, and chopped green onions to the paste. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 6. Rinse the wilted cabbage thoroughly under cold water three times to remove all excess salt. Drain in a colander for at least 20 minutes to ensure it is not too watery.
Step 7. Wearing gloves, spread the spice paste onto every single leaf of the cabbage quarters. Fold the cabbage in half and place tightly into a sterilized glass jar, pressing down to remove air bubbles.
Step 8. Leave the jar at room temperature for 1-2 days (depending on the warmth of your kitchen) until it begins to smell tangy and bubbles form. Transfer to the refrigerator where it will continue to develop flavor.
💡 Chef's Tips
-
·
Always use Korean Gochugaru; other chili flakes will not provide the same flavor profile or vibrant red color.
-
·
To make it vegan, replace the fish sauce with high-quality soy sauce or a fermented mushroom sauce.
-
·
Press the cabbage down firmly in the jar so the brine rises above the vegetables, which prevents mold growth.
-
·
Use non-iodized salt (like sea salt) for the best fermentation results.
Be the first to leave a comment.