Classic Cabbage Kimchi

Ingredients for Classic Cabbage Kimchi

• 2.7kg Napa cabbage

• 4 tablespoons kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 70g minced garlic

• 50g minced fresh ginger

• 40g hot smoked paprika (pimentón)

• 40g Korean chilli powder

• 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes

• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice

• 120ml Asian fish sauce

• 120ml brine prawns (available in a jar at Asian food stores), finely chopped

• 2 bunches spring onions, cut into 1/2-inch pieces (about 12 spring onions)

How to make Classic Cabbage Kimchi

Rinse the cabbage, and then quarter the heads lengthwise. Place the pieces in a large pot or bucket, and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the salt over them. Set aside for 1 hour.

Rinse the cabbage under cold running water, and pat it dry. Cut the cabbage into 1-inch pieces, put them in a large bowl, and toss with the remaining 3 tablespoons salt. Let sit for 2 hours. The salt will draw out moisture from the cabbage.

Drain off the accumulated liquid and lightly rinse the cabbage. In a large bowl, combine the cabbage with all the remaining ingredients, and toss well. Transfer the mixture to a large crock and push the mixture down to force the liquid to rise to the top, somewhat submerging the cabbage in its spicy surroundings. Cover it with a lid and store it in a cool, dark place for 3 days to ferment and mature.

Once the kimchi is tasting all kinds of yummy, transfer it to clean jars (I like quarts), cap them, and store in the fridge (which will inhibit further fermentation) for up to a month or process according to the jar manufacturer's directions to store on the shelf for up to 9 months.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.