Crispy Young Radish Kimchi (Chonggak Kimchi)
How to Make Delicious and Refreshing Chonggak Kimchi (Young Radish Kimchi) with a Satisfying Crunch!
When the weather gets warmer and your appetite wanes, this refreshing Chonggak Kimchi is the perfect accompaniment to a bowl of cold rice! Enjoy the delightful crunchy texture of this flavorful young radish kimchi, made right at home. We’ve prepared it with care for your whole family to enjoy. ^^
Ingredients- 2 bunches of young radishes (altari radish)
- 1 bunch of green onions (scallions)
- 2 cups of red pepper flakes
- 5 Tbsp minced garlic
- A pinch of ginger powder
- A pinch of sugar
- 2 Tbsp salted shrimp
- 1/2 cup anchovy sauce (fish sauce)
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (or syrup)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 5 Tbsp sweet rice flour
- 1/2 cup coarse sea salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
It’s best to purchase fresh young radishes from a produce market. Starting with good ingredients is the first step to delicious kimchi.
Step 2
The area where the radish meets the greens can trap dirt, so carefully trim it off with a knife. You can leave the tender green leaves attached and wash them, as they add to the texture.
Step 3
Cut the radishes in half and salt them generously with coarse sea salt for about 30 minutes. After salting, rinse the radishes thoroughly two to three times under running water and drain them well.
Step 4
Trim and wash the green onions thoroughly, then drain them completely. Excess water can cause the kimchi to become mushy or spoil.
Step 5
In 5 cups of water, whisk in 5 tablespoons of sweet rice flour and cook to create a glutinous rice paste (juk). Using sweet rice paste significantly enhances the umami flavor of the kimchi and helps it age beautifully.
Step 6
In a large bowl, combine the sweet rice paste with red pepper flakes, salted shrimp, anchovy sauce, minced garlic, plum extract, sugar, and ginger powder to make the seasoning paste. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference at this stage; this is crucial for success!
Step 7
Add the well-salted young radishes to the prepared seasoning paste and mix gently.
Step 8
Add the prepared green onions and mix everything together evenly.
Step 9
Your delicious Chonggak Kimchi is ready! Taste it and if it’s not salty enough, you can add more anchovy sauce. Try not to make it too salty for a healthier dish. Enjoy!
Step 10
This Chonggak Kimchi is exquisite when fermented and served with noodles like ramen! The satisfying crunch is truly delicious, so be sure to try it. ^^