Kim Chee(Pickled Cabbage)
Tangy and spicy fermented cabbage with bold flavors, perfect as a side or condiment for Korean dishes and those who enjoy probiotic-rich foods.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak cabbage overnight in 1 quart of water with 1/4 cup of salt.
- Next morning, drain all but 1/2 cup of water.
- Add minced red chili peppers or chili powder, minced garlic, chopped green onion, sugar, paprika, and shredded carrot if using, then mix well.
- Press the mixture tightly into quart jars and cover.
- Let stand at room temperature for 4 days to ferment.
- Refrigerate and serve cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kim chee, adjust the amount of chili peppers or chili powder to your taste. You can also experiment by adding other vegetables like radishes or cucumbers for more texture. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the garlic or omit the chili altogether. This recipe is versatile, so feel free to adapt based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Kim chee makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or can be served as a topping for rice bowls. It also pairs beautifully with Mustard Sauce And Dip for a flavorful twist. For a light meal, consider serving it alongside a simple salad or as part of a bento box. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Storage & Reheating
Once fermented, store the kim chee in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will last for several weeks and the flavors will continue to develop over time. If you find the kim chee becomes too salty, rinse it lightly before serving. This dish is best enjoyed cold straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kim Chee(Pickled Cabbage) contains roughly 156 calories, with 9g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (125% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (90% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 647mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of cabbage, including green cabbage or savoy cabbage. Each type will impart a slightly different flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite. Just ensure the cabbage is fresh and crisp for the best results.
How do I know when my kim chee is properly fermented?
Your kim chee should develop a tangy flavor and a slight fizz when opened, indicating fermentation has occurred. Depending on the room temperature, fermentation can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days. Taste it along the way to achieve your desired level of tanginess.
Can I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
Absolutely! This kim chee recipe is already vegan, as it contains no animal products. You can enjoy it as a flavorful addition to any vegan meal. Pair it with other vegan recipes for a complete and satisfying dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).