Cool and Refreshing Summer Delicacy: Watermelon Rind Kimchi (Kkakdugi)
Make a crisp and refreshing watermelon kimchi using watermelon rinds.
Watermelon, the quintessential summer fruit! Do you usually throw away the rind after enjoying it? Try making a cool and crisp kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi) using the wonderfully versatile watermelon rind, which also helps reduce food waste. Its unique, refreshing taste is a delightful change from regular kkakdugi, perfect for stimulating your appetite and beating the summer heat. It’s simple to make with readily available ingredients, so give it a try today!
Ingredients
- 300g white part of watermelon rind
- A pinch of coarse salt (for salting the rind)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or syrup)
- 1/4 Tbsp sugar (adjust sweetness)
- A little sesame seeds (for nutty flavor)
- 1 red chili pepper (for color and mild spice)
- 1/2 stalk of green onion or the white part of a leek
- 1 Tbsp red chili powder
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the watermelon rind thoroughly. Peel off the hard green outer skin, and prepare about 300g of the white part, which provides a nice crunch. Cut it into bite-sized pieces, similar to how you would cut kkakdugi.
Step 2
Sprinkle a pinch of coarse salt over the cut watermelon rind and mix well. Let it salt for about 10-15 minutes. This process will draw out some moisture, enhancing its crisp texture.
Step 3
Discard the water that has been drawn out from the salted rind. (You can also rinse it under warm water and squeeze out excess moisture.) Now, let’s prepare the kimchi seasoning. Finely chop the red chili pepper and green onion. (Feel free to add a small amount of chili peppers for extra heat if you like.)
Step 4
In a bowl, combine the salted watermelon rind with 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic, 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce, 1 Tbsp plum extract, 1/4 Tbsp sugar, and 1 Tbsp red chili powder. Add the chopped red chili pepper and green onion.
Step 5
Gently mix all the seasoning ingredients with the watermelon rind until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the rind mushy. Mix gently to coat evenly.
Step 6
Sesame seeds are optional, but they add a wonderful nutty flavor that enhances the taste. Sprinkle them on just before serving or right before eating for the best aroma and texture.
Step 7
Ta-da! Your refreshing watermelon rind kimchi is ready! Enjoy its crisp texture immediately after making, or let it sit for a while as it develops a delicious sweet and sour flavor. It’s a unique and delightful side dish for the summer season!
