Crispy and Flavorful Baek Jong Won’s Napa Cabbage Kimchi (Geotjeori)
Easy and Simple Napa Cabbage Geotjeori Recipe for Beginners
Let’s try making Baek Jong Won’s signature Napa Cabbage Geotjeori, known for its refreshing crunch and delicious taste.
Fresh Geotjeori Ingredients
- 1 head Napa cabbage
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tsp Fish sauce
- 1 tsp Sugar
- 1 handful Scallions or green onions (approx. 50g)
- 1 tsp Minced garlic
- 1/3 cup Coarse sea salt (for brining)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Hello everyone! Today, we’re going to make Baek Jong Won’s Napa Cabbage Geotjeori, a wonderfully crisp and flavorful dish that’s perfect with rice. Geotjeori is truly at its best when freshly made. Shall we get started?
Step 2
Baek Jong Won’s golden recipe for Geotjeori involves not rinsing the brined cabbage. First, wash the cabbage thoroughly and cut it into bite-sized pieces (about 4-5 cm). Sprinkle 1/3 cup of coarse sea salt evenly over the cut cabbage and let it brine for about 10 minutes. Stir it once or twice during brining to ensure even salting. Gently squeeze out the excess water from the brined cabbage; avoid squeezing too hard, as this can reduce the cabbage’s crispness.
Step 3
Now, let’s season it! To the brined cabbage, add 2 tablespoons of gochugaru, 1 teaspoon of fish sauce, 1 teaspoon of sugar, a handful of roughly chopped scallions or green onions, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Gently mix everything together with your hands, ‘jomul-jomul’ style, ensuring the seasoning coats the cabbage evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cabbage mushy.
Step 4
As you mix, the seasoning will adhere beautifully to the cabbage, releasing a mouthwatering aroma. The process of mixing itself is sure to make your stomach rumble! You can enjoy it immediately, or let it sit for a short while to allow the flavors to meld for an even richer taste.
Step 5
And there you have it – your delicious, crisp Napa Cabbage Geotjeori, Baek Jong Won’s way, is ready! Serve it over warm rice or alongside your favorite grilled meats for an incredible meal. Enjoy your delicious meal with this freshly made Geotjeori!
