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+ servings

Kimchi

Making kimchi at home is a delightful way to bring the vibrant flavors of Korean cuisine to your table. This tangy and spicy dish is not only delicious but also packed with probiotics, making it great for your gut health. It’s a simple, satisfying way to enjoy a classic Korean favorite while boosting your well-being!
Prep Time2 hours
Total Time3 minutes
Yields5 to 6 cups
Servings5 to 6 cups

Ingredients

CABBAGE

  • 1 head of napa cabbage
  • 1/3 cup coarse salt

KIMCHI PASTE

  • 1/2 cup sweet rice flour
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 to 1/3 whole yellow onion
  • 8 to 10 garlic cloves
  • 1/2 to 1 inch of ginger
  • 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 1/4 cup fish sauce
  • 3 to 5 green onions, chopped
  • 1 cup daikon radish, thinly chopped
  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup gochugaru, Korean red pepper flakes
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

Instructions 

  1. Prepare the Cabbage: Start by cutting your napa cabbage into quarters, removing the core, and then cutting the quarters into smaller bite-sized pieces. Rinse and clean the cabbage well to remove any dirt.
  2. Place the cabbage in a large bowl and generously sprinkle coarse salt over it, massaging it well into every piece. Cover with water and place a heavy plate on top to press down. Let the cabbage sit for a while, 1 to 2 hours, until it softens and releases some of its moisture.
  3. Rinse and Drain: Once the cabbage has softened, rinse it thoroughly under cold water to remove the excess salt. Let it drain well, pressing out any excess water.
  4. Make the Kimchi Paste: In a small pot, combine sweet rice flour with water, stirring until smooth. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens into a paste. Remove from heat and let it cool.
  5. Prepare the Aromatics: In a blender or food processor, combine a chunk of yellow onion, garlic cloves, and a small piece of ginger. Blend until smooth.
  6. Mix the Kimchi Paste: Once the rice flour paste has cooled, combine it with the blended aromatics, sugar, fish sauce, and gochugaru in a large mixing bowl. Season the paste with a bit of salt, adjusting to taste.
  7. Combine with Cabbage: Add the drained cabbage to the bowl with the kimchi paste along with the green onions and radish. Using your hands (wearing gloves if preferred), massage the paste into the cabbage, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated.
  8. Pack and Ferment: Once the cabbage is well-coated, pack it tightly into a clean jar or airtight container. Press down to remove any air pockets. Leave some space at the top as the kimchi will expand during fermentation. Seal the jar and leave it at room temperature for a day or two, depending on how tangy you like your kimchi. Then, transfer it to the fridge to slow down the fermentation process.
  9. Enjoy: Your kimchi can be enjoyed right away, but it develops deeper flavors after a few days in the fridge. Serve it as a side dish or add it into any of your favorite dishes.