Recipe Baek Kimchi

Baek Kimchi, also known as "White Kimchi," is a mild, non-spicy variety of traditional Korean kimchi. Unlike its fiery counterpart, Baek Kimchi is made without red chili pepper powder, resulting in a refreshing and crisp taste. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy the tangy and crunchy aspects of kimchi but prefer a milder flavor. Rich in probiotics and vitamins, Baek Kimchi is not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 medium Napa cabbage
• 1 medium Korean radish (mu)
• 2 medium carrots
• 1 small bunch of green onions
• 1 small Asian pear
• 1 small bunch of mustard greens (optional)

Brine

• 1/2 cup sea salt
• 4 cups water

Filling

• 1 small onion
• 6 cloves garlic
• 1 piece ginger (about 1 inch)
• 1 small apple
• 1 small Asian pear
• 1/2 cup pine nuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup chestnuts (optional)
• 1/2 cup jujubes (dried red dates) (optional)
• 1/4 cup salted shrimp (saeujeot) or fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 tablespoons glutinous rice flour
• 2 cups water

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Brine

1. Dissolve 1/2 cup of sea salt in 4 cups of water to make the brine.
2. Cut the Napa cabbage lengthwise into quarters and remove the core.
3. Soak the cabbage in the brine for 2-3 hours, ensuring the leaves are fully submerged.
4. Rinse the cabbage thoroughly with cold water to remove excess salt and set aside to drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Peel and julienne the Korean radish and carrots.
2. Chop the green onions into 1-inch pieces.
3. Peel and thinly slice the Asian pear.
4. If using mustard greens, chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Blend the onion, garlic, ginger, apple, and Asian pear until smooth.
2. In a small pot, combine 2 tablespoons of glutinous rice flour with 2 cups of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine the blended mixture, cooled rice paste, salted shrimp (or fish sauce), and sugar. Mix well.
4. Add the pine nuts, chestnuts, and jujubes if using, and mix again.

Step 4: Assemble the Kimchi

1. Carefully spread the filling mixture between each leaf of the Napa cabbage quarters.
2. Place the julienned radish, carrots, green onions, and sliced Asian pear between the leaves as well.
3. Fold the cabbage quarters in half and place them in a clean, airtight container.

Step 5: Fermentation

1. Leave the container at room temperature for 1-2 days to start the fermentation process.
2. After 2 days, move the container to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation.
3. Baek Kimchi can be eaten fresh but will develop a deeper flavor after a few more days in the refrigerator.

Tips

1. Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables and ingredients to ensure the best flavor and texture.
2. Brine Time: Do not over-soak the cabbage in the brine, as it can become too salty and lose its crispiness.
3. Fermentation: The fermentation time can vary depending on the temperature. Check the kimchi regularly to achieve your desired level of fermentation.
4. Flavor Adjustment: If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, you can add a bit more sugar to the filling mixture.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Baek Kimchi: Omit the salted shrimp or fish sauce and replace it with soy sauce or miso paste for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Baek Kimchi: Add a small amount of fresh chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the filling mixture for a mild kick.
3. Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits like persimmons or apples for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.
4. Additional Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables such as cucumbers or bell peppers to add more variety to your kimchi.

Calorie Information

Baek Kimchi is low in calories and high in nutritional value. A 100-gram serving of Baek Kimchi typically contains:

• Calories: 25-30 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5-7 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams
• Fat: 0-1 grams
• Fiber: 2-3 grams

It is also a great source of vitamins A, B, and C, as well as calcium, iron, and probiotics.

Conclusion

Baek Kimchi is a delightful alternative to the traditional spicy kimchi, offering a mild yet flavorful experience. It is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or as a complement to various meals. With its refreshing taste and numerous health benefits, Baek Kimchi is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and nutritious Korean delicacy!