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Homemade Korean Fermented Cabbage Kimchi

A delicious blend of fermented Napa cabbage, spices, and seasonings that creates a flavor explosion in your mouth, perfect as a side dish or topping for various meals.
Prep Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Condiment, Side Dish
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 40

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 head Napa cabbage Cut into quarters and chopped into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1/4 cup sea salt For creating a brine.
  • 4 cups water Used to dissolve sea salt for the brine.
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 3 tablespoons fish sauce Or substitute with soy sauce or mushroom-based alternative for umami flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 2-5 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 2 pieces carrots, julienned
  • 4 pieces green onions, chopped

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cut the Napa cabbage into quarters lengthwise, remove the core, and chop into bite-sized pieces. Rinse under cold water, then set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve sea salt in water to create a brine. Add cabbage pieces to the brine and ensure they are fully submerged. Let sit for 1-2 hours.
Make the Kimchi Spice Paste
  1. In a separate bowl, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, fish sauce, sugar, and Korean red pepper flakes. Mix well until you have a somewhat thick paste.
Combine and Pack
  1. After 1-2 hours, rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove excess salt and drain well.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained cabbage, julienned carrots, and chopped green onions. Add in the kimchi spice paste, mixing thoroughly with your hands (wear gloves to avoid spiciness on skin).
  3. Transfer the kimchi mixture into clean glass jars or airtight containers, pressing down to minimize air inside. Leave some space at the top as it will expand during fermentation.
Fermentation
  1. Seal the jars and let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 days to ferment. Transfer to the refrigerator to slow down fermentation and develop flavors.

Notes

Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 months. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to use.