Side Dishes

Kimchi

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

1

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.

2

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.

3

Step 3. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, ginger, onion, and fish sauce. Blend until smooth.

4

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.

5

Step 5. Add the julienned radish, carrots, and chopped green onions to the paste. Toss to coat evenly.

6

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.

7

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.

8

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.

? FAQ

How long does homemade kimchi last?
In the refrigerator, kimchi can last for 3 to 6 months. It will become sourer and softer over time, which makes it perfect for stews.
Why is my kimchi too salty?
This usually happens if the cabbage wasn't rinsed well enough after salting. You can add more sliced radish or onion to the jar to help absorb some of the salt.
Is kimchi healthy?
Yes, it is packed with vitamins A, B, and C, and contains healthy bacteria called lactobacilli that aid in digestion.
Can I use regular cabbage?
While Napa cabbage is traditional, you can use the same spice paste for green cabbage, though the texture will be much crunchier.

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