Recipe Dongchimi

Dongchimi is a type of Korean radish kimchi that is mild, watery, and often enjoyed during the winter months. Unlike other kimchi varieties that are spicy and heavily fermented, dongchimi is lightly pickled and has a refreshing, tangy flavor. It is typically made with Korean radish (mu), green onions, garlic, ginger, and pear, and is enjoyed as a side dish or a palate cleanser. This kimchi is unique for its clear, crisp, and slightly sweet broth, which makes it a delightful accompaniment to many Korean meals.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 large Korean radishes (mu), peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 bunch of green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 Korean pear, peeled and sliced
• 1 head of garlic, peeled and lightly crushed
• 2-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 red chili pepper, sliced (optional for mild spice)
• 1 green chili pepper, sliced (optional for mild spice)
• 4 cups of water
• 2 tablespoons of coarse sea salt
• 1 tablespoon of sugar

Brine:

• 2 cups of water
• 1 tablespoon of salt

Preparation and Serving Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients:

1. Prepare the Radish:

   • Peel and cut the Korean radishes into chunks. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
   • Sprinkle the coarse sea salt over the radish chunks and toss well to ensure they are evenly coated. Let them sit for 1-2 hours to draw out moisture, tossing occasionally.

2. Prepare the Brine:

   • In a separate bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of salt in 2 cups of water. Set aside.

3. Prepare the Aromatics:

   • Peel and slice the ginger.
   • Peel and lightly crush the garlic cloves.
   • Cut the green onions into 2-inch pieces.
   • Peel and slice the Korean pear.

Assembling the Dongchimi:

1. Combine the Ingredients:

   • Once the radishes have released some of their moisture, rinse them lightly to remove excess salt and drain well.
   • In a large, clean container or jar, layer the radish chunks, green onions, ginger, garlic, and pear slices.
   • If you prefer a slightly spicy flavor, add the sliced red and green chili peppers.

2. Add the Brine:

   • Pour the prepared brine over the radish and other ingredients in the container.
   • Add 4 cups of water to the container, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged.
   • Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and stir gently to combine.

Fermentation:

1. Fermenting the Dongchimi:

   • Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap. Leave it at room temperature for 1-2 days to start the fermentation process.
   • After 1-2 days, transfer the container to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation. Allow it to ferment for at least another week before consuming.

2. Serving the Dongchimi:

   • Dongchimi can be enjoyed cold. Serve it as a side dish with its broth.
   • It pairs well with rice, noodles, or grilled meats.

Tips

• Choosing Radishes: Use fresh, firm Korean radishes for the best texture and flavor.
• Fermentation Time: The longer you ferment, the tangier and more developed the flavor will be. Adjust according to your preference.
• Storage: Keep the dongchimi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for several weeks.
• Adjusting Salt and Sugar: Taste the brine before fermentation and adjust salt and sugar levels to your preference.

Variations

• Spicy Dongchimi: Add more chili peppers or a small amount of Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru) for a spicier version.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute or add other fruits like apples or Asian pears for different flavors.
• Herbs: Adding herbs like mint or perilla leaves can introduce unique flavors.

Calorie Information

• Approximate Calories: A serving of dongchimi (100g) contains roughly 20-30 calories.
• Nutritional Benefits: Dongchimi is low in calories, high in fiber, and contains vitamins A, C, and K from the radishes and pears. It also provides beneficial probiotics due to the fermentation process.

Conclusion

Dongchimi is a delightful and refreshing kimchi variety that offers a unique, tangy flavor perfect for complementing various Korean dishes. Its preparation is simple, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. By following this recipe, you can enjoy homemade dongchimi that is both nutritious and delicious. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish or a palate cleanser, dongchimi is sure to add a refreshing touch to your meals.