Easy Kimchi Refresh Recipe
Transform Your Old Kimchi into a Delicious Side Dish!
Inspired by an Instagram Reel, I tried this method for refreshing old kimchi, similar to how meat restaurants serve their refreshing kimchi. It’s a great way to salvage older or less tasty napa cabbage kimchi and turn it into something delicious and palate-cleansing.
Main Ingredients
- 1/4 to 1/2 head of aged napa cabbage kimchi
- 2 packets of store-bought naengmyeon (cold noodle) broth
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, adjust to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly rinsing the aged napa cabbage kimchi under cold running water. This step helps to remove excess saltiness and the very strong fermented flavor, making it suitable for a milder dish. Gently separate the leaves and focus on the crunchier parts.
Step 2
Prepare two packets of commercially available naengmyeon broth. This broth provides a clean, slightly savory, and refreshing base that is perfect for creating a side dish similar to a mild white kimchi.
Step 3
Trim the tough core from the rinsed kimchi. Place the kimchi into the naengmyeon broth and let it soak for 4 to 5 hours. It’s recommended to stir the kimchi halfway through this soaking period to ensure even flavor distribution. (Tip: If you prefer a slightly sweeter profile, you can add about 1 teaspoon of sugar to the broth. This helps to balance the sourness of the kimchi and enhances its overall flavor.)
Step 4
After soaking, carefully remove the kimchi from the broth and gently squeeze out the excess liquid. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this could tear the delicate kimchi leaves.
Step 5
Cut the squeezed kimchi into bite-sized pieces or gently tear it into strips. This method is fantastic for reviving kimchi that has become too sour, too salty, or simply lost its appeal. The result is a refreshing, mild kimchi that even children can enjoy, making it a versatile and family-friendly side dish.
