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Easy Kimchi Recipe for Beginners

A simple and flavorful kimchi recipe, perfect for beginners and packed with probiotic goodness.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Korean
Calories: 50

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 medium napa cabbage
  • 1/4 cup sea salt
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 2 tablespoons fish sauce
  • 2-3 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes gochugaru
  • 1 carrot julienned
  • 4 green onions chopped

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Gloves
  • Jar or airtight container for fermentation
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Cut the napa cabbage into quarters lengthwise and remove the core.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the sea salt in water.
  3. Submerge the cabbage quarters in the salted water, ensuring they are fully covered.
  4. Let the cabbage soak for 2 hours, turning occasionally.
  5. In a separate bowl, combine grated ginger, minced garlic, fish sauce, and Korean red pepper flakes.
  6. After 2 hours, rinse the cabbage under cold water to remove excess salt.
  7. In a large bowl, combine the rinsed cabbage, julienned carrot, chopped green onions, and kimchi paste.
  8. Use your hands (gloves recommended) to mix everything well.
  9. Transfer the mixture into a clean jar or airtight container, pressing it down to remove air pockets.
  10. Leave the jar at room temperature for 1-2 days until it ferments to your liking.
  11. Taste daily to check the flavor; once it reaches the desired tanginess, move it to the refrigerator.

Notes

Kimchi can be served as a side dish or used in various recipes like fried rice or tacos.