Spicy Napa Cabbage Kimchi (Tongbaechu-Kimchi)

Spicy Napa Cabbage Kimchi (Tongbaechu-Kimchi)

172 mins
medium
8 servings

A vibrant and flavorful Korean kimchi recipe, perfect for adding a zesty kick to any meal. This traditional dish is made with fresh napa cabbage, a blend of spices, and a unique fermentation process.

Fermented FoodKimchiKorean Food

Equipment Needed

  • Cutting board
  • Glass Jars or Containers
  • Large Basin
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Sharp Knife
  • Small Pot
  • Strainer
  • Wooden spoon

Ingredients

  • 6.00 poundsNapa Cabbage(Fresh, crisp napa cabbage is key.)
  • 0.50 cupKosher Salt(Use high-quality kosher salt for best results.)
  • 2.00 cupsWater(Filtered water is recommended.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsSweet Rice Flour(Adds a unique texture and flavor.)
  • 2.00 tablespoonsTurbinado Sugar(Adjust to your preferred sweetness.)
  • 2.00 cupsKorean Radish(Finely sliced matchsticks for a crisp texture.)
  • 1.00 cupCarrot(Finely sliced matchsticks for a vibrant color.)
  • 7.00 mediumGreen Onions(Finely chopped for freshness.)
  • 1.00 cupAsian Chives(Optional, adds a delicate flavor.)
  • 1.00 cupWater Dropwort(Optional, adds a unique flavor.)
  • 0.50 cupGarlic(Minced for a pungent aroma.)
  • 2.00 teaspoonsGinger(Minced for a spicy kick.)
  • 1.00 mediumOnion(Minced for a savory depth.)
  • 0.50 cupFish Sauce(Adds a salty, umami flavor.)
  • 0.25 cupFermented Salted Shrimp(Adds a salty, umami flavor.)
  • 2.00 cupsRed Pepper Flakes(Adjust to your preferred spice level.)

Instructions

1

Trim cabbage cores if needed.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

2

Split cabbage in half, carefully.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

3

Cut slits in cabbage halves.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

4

Soak cabbage halves in water and salt.

Estimated time: 15 minutes

5

Let cabbage rest and turn every 30 minutes.

Estimated time: 120 minutes

6

Rinse cabbage thoroughly and quarter.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

7

Prepare the kimchi paste by combining ingredients.

Estimated time: 15 minutes

8

Combine all ingredients for the paste.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

9

Add vegetables to the paste.

Estimated time: 5 minutes

10

Spread paste on cabbage leaves and wrap.

Estimated time: 15 minutes

11

Pack kimchi into jars or containers.

Estimated time: 10 minutes

12

Ferment at room temperature for 1-2 days.

Estimated time: 48 minutes

13

Refrigerate for longer storage.

Estimated time: 5 minutes