Kimchi with a Nordic Twist

Ingredients

While the original Korean kimchi relies heavily on ingredients like gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and fish sauce, this adapted version incorporates Nordic elements. We substitute gochugaru with a blend of Nordic spices, such as dill seeds and caraway, and replace fish sauce with a combination of fermented Nordic vegetables. The result is a kimchi that retains its signature tang and spice while embracing the unique flavors of New Nordic cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Kimchi, so you can check it out.

• 1 large Napa cabbage (about 2 pounds / 900g) 1 large Napa cabbage (about 2 pounds / 900g)
• 1/4 cup (60ml) sea salt 1/4 cup (60ml) sea salt
• 1 tablespoon dill seeds 1 tablespoon dill seeds
• 1 tablespoon caraway seeds 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fermented Nordic vegetable brine 2 tablespoons fermented Nordic vegetable brine
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons water
• 2 scallions, thinly sliced 2 scallions, thinly sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1/2 daikon radish, julienned 1/2 daikon radish, julienned

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 45 kcal / 188 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0.3g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 2.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Cut the Napa cabbage into quarters lengthwise and remove the core. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
2. 2.
   In a large bowl, combine the cabbage and sea salt. Massage the salt into the cabbage for about 5 minutes until it starts to release its liquid. Let it sit for 1 hour.
3. 3.
   Rinse the cabbage thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a small bowl, mix together the dill seeds, caraway seeds, grated ginger, minced garlic, fermented Nordic vegetable brine, rice vinegar, honey, and water.
5. 5.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cabbage, scallions, carrot, and daikon radish. Pour the spice mixture over the vegetables and toss well to coat.
6. 6.
   Pack the kimchi tightly into a clean jar, pressing down firmly to remove any air bubbles. Leave about 1 inch (2.5cm) of headspace.
7. 7.
   Seal the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 2 to 5 days, depending on your desired level of fermentation. Burp the jar daily to release any built-up pressure.
8. 8.
   Once fermented, transfer the jar to the refrigerator. The kimchi will continue to develop flavor over time and can be enjoyed for several weeks.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Napa cabbage — Make sure to thoroughly rinse the cabbage after salting to remove excess salt and prevent the kimchi from becoming too salty.
• Fermented Nordic vegetable brine — Use brine from fermented Nordic vegetables like sauerkraut or pickles to add a tangy flavor to the kimchi.

Tips & Tricks

• For a milder kimchi, reduce the amount of dill seeds and caraway seeds.
• Adjust the fermentation time according to your taste preference. Longer fermentation will result in a tangier and more pungent kimchi.
• Serve the kimchi chilled for a refreshing twist or at room temperature for a more intense flavor.
• Experiment with adding Nordic herbs like dill or chives for additional freshness.
• Use the leftover kimchi to create delicious Nordic-inspired dishes like kimchi pancakes or kimchi soup.

Serving advice

Serve the Nordic kimchi as a side dish alongside traditional New Nordic dishes or incorporate it into Nordic-inspired recipes. It pairs well with smoked fish, rye bread, and pickled vegetables. The tangy and spicy flavors of the kimchi will add a delightful kick to any Nordic meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Nordic kimchi in a small ceramic dish or a glass jar to showcase its vibrant colors. Garnish with fresh dill or chives for an added touch of Nordic elegance. The contrasting colors and textures of the kimchi will make it an eye-catching addition to any table.