Description
If you’re looking to elevate your meals with a burst of flavor, this Spicy Fermented Kimchi is just the ticket! Not only is it a vibrant side dish that enhances everything from rice bowls to tacos, but it’s also packed with gut-friendly probiotics. The process of making kimchi is both fun and rewarding, as you watch simple ingredients transform into a tangy delight over time. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is easy to follow and allows room for customization based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a gathering, this kimchi will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large Napa cabbage (about 2 lbs)
- 1/2 cup sea salt
- 1/2 cup Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 inches fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 3 green onions, finely chopped
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (as a substitute for fish sauce)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage by chopping it into quarters and removing the core. Slice into bite-sized pieces and sprinkle generously with sea salt. Let rest for about two hours to draw out moisture.
- Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt and drain well.
- In a bowl, mix minced garlic, grated ginger, sugar, soy sauce, and gochugaru until you have a thick paste.
- In a large bowl, combine drained cabbage with chopped green onions. Add the spicy paste and mix thoroughly using gloves.
- Pack the mixture tightly into clean jars or containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top for fermentation gases.
- Allow the jars to sit at room temperature for 1 to 5 days, tasting daily until desired tanginess is achieved.
- Refrigerate once fermented to slow down the process and enjoy chilled or at room temperature.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup (60g)
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
