
Simple Scallion Kimchi (Sumin’s Side Dish Style)
Simple Scallion Kimchi (Sumin’s Side Dish Style)
Quick 3-Minute Scallion Kimchi: No Salting Required!
Inspired by the popular Korean cooking show ‘Sumin’s Side Dish,’ this recipe for scallion kimchi is incredibly simple and delicious. Unlike traditional methods, it requires no salting or fermentation time, allowing you to enjoy the fresh, crisp texture of scallions and the savory depth of fish sauce immediately. It’s a perfect quick side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats.
Main Ingredients- 6 stalks of scallions (focus on the white and light green parts)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance type)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp minced ginger
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance type)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to taste)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp minced ginger
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the scallions thoroughly. Trim off any roots and tough green tops. Use primarily the white and light green parts of the scallions. Cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 inches long. (Note: This recipe is for 2 servings. If you are using a full bunch of scallions, scale up the seasoning ingredients to: 4 Tbsp fish sauce, 3 Tbsp gochugaru, 2/3 Tbsp minced garlic, 1/2 Tbsp minced ginger, and 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. ‘Tbsp’ refers to a standard adult tablespoon.)
Step 2
In a bowl, combine the cut scallions with minced garlic, minced ginger, and gochugaru. You can adjust the amount of gochugaru to achieve your desired color and level of spiciness. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
Step 3
Instead of using salt to wilt the scallions, this ‘Sumin’s Side Dish’ recipe relies on fish sauce for seasoning and flavor. Fish sauce adds a wonderful umami depth that enhances the overall taste of the kimchi. Anchovy fish sauce is recommended, but sand lance fish sauce can also be used.
Step 4
Add the fish sauce to the bowl with the scallions and seasonings. Gently toss everything together until the scallions are evenly coated. Finally, sprinkle in the toasted sesame seeds and toss once more to distribute them throughout the kimchi.
Step 5
Your quick and delicious scallion kimchi, ‘Sumin’s Side Dish’ style, is ready to enjoy immediately – no salting required!
Step 6
It truly is that simple! You can make this within 3 minutes by just chopping the scallions and mixing the ingredients. The taste is wonderfully fresh, with the savory kick from the fish sauce and the satisfying crunch of the scallions. The absence of sugar makes it feel healthier, relying on the natural subtle spice of the scallions. This kimchi is an excellent accompaniment to fatty dishes like grilled pork belly or steak, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing element to your meal.

