This simplified version of kimchi is perfect when you’re craving the tangy, spicy flavors of traditional kimchi but don’t have days to ferment it. Ready in just a few hours, this quick kimchi is fresh, vibrant, and packed with probiotics if you use vegan yogurt or kombucha!
Ingredients
Vegetables:
- 1 small Napa cabbage (about 2 lbs / 900g)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 4-5 green onions, chopped into 2-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup kosher salt (or sea salt, not iodized)
Sauce:
- 3 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes; adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp sugar or maple syrup (optional)
- 2 tbsp vegan yogurt or 2 tbsp plain kombucha (optional, for faster fermentation and tang)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage
- Cut the Napa cabbage into quarters lengthwise, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the cabbage in a large bowl and sprinkle with salt, mixing well.
- Let it sit for 30-45 minutes, tossing occasionally. The cabbage will release water and soften.
- Rinse and Drain
- Rinse the salted cabbage thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Drain well, squeezing out extra water gently.
- Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, sugar (if using), and vegan yogurt or kombucha (if using). Adjust the spice level to your liking.
- Combine and Mix
- Add the carrot and green onions to the drained cabbage.
- Pour the sauce over the vegetables and mix well with your hands (use gloves if sensitive to chili). Ensure everything is evenly coated.
- Quick Ferment or Serve Fresh
- Quick Serve: Let the kimchi sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours, then enjoy it fresh.
- For More Tang: Transfer to a clean jar, pressing down firmly to remove air bubbles. Leave it at room temperature for 4-6 hours or overnight, then refrigerate.
- Storage
- Keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. The flavors will develop over time, becoming tangier.
Tips
- Add Crunch: Include radish or cucumber slices for extra texture.
- Customize Heat: Reduce or increase gochugaru depending on your spice tolerance.
- Shortcut Flavor Boost: Add a splash of kimchi juice from a store-bought vegan kimchi jar.
Enjoy your quick, vibrant, and flavorful vegan kimchi! 🌱🔥
