Kim Chee Squats

Kim Chee Squats Recipe - Authentic Chinese Cabbage Dish

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 4 hours | Servings: 4

Introduction

Kim Chee Squats is a traditional Korean dish that is known for its spicy and tangy flavors. This dish is made with Chinese cabbage, garlic, green onions, chili powder, ginger, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. It is a popular side dish that is often served with rice and other Korean dishes.

History

Kim Chee Squats has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northern regions of Korea, where the cold climate made it difficult to grow fresh vegetables year-round. Fermenting vegetables like cabbage was a way to preserve them for the winter months. Over time, the recipe evolved to include a variety of seasonings and spices, giving it the unique flavor that it is known for today.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of coarsely chopped chinese cabbage
1 tbsp of salt
2 tbsp of chopped green onion
1 clove of garlic, crushed
1 tbsp of chili powder
2 tsp of minced fresh ginger root
0.5 cup of light soy sauce
0.5 cup of white wine vinegar
2 tsp of white sugar
1 dash of sesame oil

How to prepare

1 - Sprinkle cabbage with salt and let it sit for approximately 4 hours.
2 - Drain the liquids from the cabbage and add garlic, onions, chili powder, vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Add sesame oil before serving.

Variations

Add shredded carrots or daikon radish for extra crunch.
Use gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) instead of chili powder for a more authentic flavor.
Mix in diced tofu or cooked shrimp for added protein.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.

- Adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference.

- Allow the cabbage to sit with salt for at least 4 hours to draw out excess moisture.

- Store Kim Chee Squats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Kim Chee Squats can be served as a side dish with rice, grilled meats, or other Korean dishes. It can also be added to salads or sandwiches for an extra kick of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Ferment the cabbage for a few days in a cool, dark place for a more intense flavor.

- Stir-fry the Kim Chee Squats with rice or noodles for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use regular cabbage or Napa cabbage if Chinese cabbage is not available.

- Substitute rice vinegar for white wine vinegar if needed.

Make Ahead Tips

Kim Chee Squats can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop over time.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Kim Chee Squats in a small bowl garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. - Arrange the Kim Chee Squats on a platter with other Korean side dishes for a colorful and flavorful spread.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Kim Chee Squats with bulgogi (marinated grilled beef) and steamed rice for a traditional Korean meal.

- Serve Kim Chee Squats alongside kimchi jjigae (spicy kimchi stew) for a warming and comforting dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Kim Chee Squats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

- Reheat Kim Chee Squats in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 12g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 1g

- Saturated Fat: 0g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10% DV

- Vitamin C: 30% DV

- Calcium: 6% DV

- Iron: 4% DV

Alergens

Contains soy

Summary

Kim Chee Squats is a low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins A and C. It is a good source of dietary fiber and protein, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Kim Chee Squats is a flavorful and spicy Korean dish made with Chinese cabbage, garlic, green onions, chili powder, and other seasonings. It is a healthy and delicious side dish that pairs well with rice and other Korean dishes. Enjoy the tangy and spicy flavors of Kim Chee Squats as part of your next Korean meal!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old box of my grandmother's belongings. As I sifted through old photos and letters, a faded piece of paper caught my eye. It was a recipe for Kim Chee Squats. I was intrigued, as I had never heard of such a dish before.

I carefully unfolded the paper, taking in the handwritten instructions. The recipe had been passed down through generations, and I could tell it was a family favorite. I knew I had to try my hand at making it.

I decided to surprise my family with the Kim Chee Squats for dinner that night. I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work in the kitchen. The recipe called for a mix of cabbage, radishes, carrots, and scallions, all marinated in a spicy kimchi sauce. I could already imagine the burst of flavors that would come from each bite.

As the dish cooked, the kitchen filled with the aroma of the kimchi sauce. I couldn't wait to see the look on my family's faces when they tried it. When it was finally time to eat, the Kim Chee Squats did not disappoint. The flavors were bold and tangy, with just the right amount of heat. My family devoured the dish, and I knew I had found a new favorite recipe.

I made the Kim Chee Squats many times after that, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. I added extra garlic for more depth of flavor and a dash of soy sauce for a hint of umami. I even experimented with different vegetables, such as bell peppers and mushrooms. Each time I made the dish, it brought back memories of that warm summer day when I first discovered the recipe.

Over the years, I shared the recipe for Kim Chee Squats with friends and neighbors, who all raved about its unique and delicious flavors. Some even asked me to teach them how to make it, and I gladly passed on the recipe, just as it had been passed down to me.

As I grew older, I continued to make the Kim Chee Squats for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a tradition in our household, a dish that brought us all together around the dinner table. I loved watching my grandchildren's faces light up as they took their first bite, just as mine had all those years ago.

Now, as I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to the recipe for Kim Chee Squats, I am filled with gratitude. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and this dish holds a special place in my heart. It represents not only a delicious meal but also a connection to my past and the generations that came before me.

I hope that one day my grandchildren will carry on the tradition of making Kim Chee Squats, sharing the recipe with their own families and friends. And as they do, I know that the memories of that warm summer day when I first found the recipe will live on, forever etched in their hearts.