The Korean word “mak” means “carelessly” or “roughly” (generally used as an adverb). The name mak kimchi(막김치) suggests this is carelessly (or roughly) made kimchi. Sounds kind of fool-proof, right?
Now, of course, all kimchi types are made with care, but the name comes from the shortcut method used to make this an especially easy kimchi, at least as compared to the method used to make traditional kimchi (aka pogi kimchi).
How to make this easy Kimchi recipe at home
Tips and Variations on this easy kimchi recipe:
When I make this easy kimchi recipeI almost always add some mu (Korean radish) just like my mother and mother-in-law used to. Not only does kimchi taste more refreshing with the radish, but it’s like having two different kinds of kimchi in one dish.
You can dress it up by adding other ingredients like Korean pear, oysters, garlic chives, etc.
If you like lighter tastingkimchi, simply reduce the amounts ofred chili pepper flakes, salted shrimp, fish sauce, and/or garlic. If you don’t have salted shrimp,just add more fish sauce (and salt if needed) to achieve the desired salt level.
How long can I keep homemade kimchi in the fridge?
Your homemade kimchi will continue to age in your refrigerator, and this type of kimchi will be good for a month or two or even longer, depending on the salt level.
Have you tried this kimchi recipe? Please rate the recipe below and leave a comment! Stay in touch by following me onYouTube,Pinterest,Twitter,Facebook, andInstagram.
Ingredients
- 2 medium size napa cabbages about 8 pounds
- 1-1/4 cups coarse sea salt less if using finer salt
- 6 cups water
- 1 Korean radish mu (about 1-1/2 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt
- 5 - 7 scallions roughly chopped
Seasoning
- 1 cup gochugaru Korean red chili pepper flakes
- 1/3 cup saeujeot salted shrimp, finely minced
- 4 tablespoons myulchiaekjeot fish sauce
- 1/4 cup minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons finely grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Place the cabbage pieces in a large bowl(s). In a smaller bowl, dissolve 1-1/4 cups of salt in 6 cups of water. Pour over the cabbage. Toss well to wet the cabbage pieces evenly with the salt water. Let stand until the white parts are bendable, about 2 hours, turning the cabbage pieces over occasionally.
- Leave the kimchi out at room temperature for half a day to a day, depending on how quickly you want your kimchi to ferment. Then, refrigerate.