Refreshing Cucumber Kimchi Recipe

Easy Cucumber Kimchi Recipe for Gut Health

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium-sized cucumbers
  • 2 tablespoons sea salt
  • 2 tablespoons Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce or soy sauce (for vegan option)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
    • Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds or sticks.
  2. Salt the Cucumbers:
    • In a large bowl, toss the cucumber slices with 2 tablespoons of sea salt until evenly coated.
    • Let the cucumbers sit at room temperature for about 1 hour to draw out excess moisture.
  3. Rinse and Drain:
    • Rinse the salted cucumbers under cold running water to remove excess salt.
    • Drain the cucumbers in a colander and gently squeeze out any excess water.
  4. Make the Kimchi Paste:
    • In a small bowl, combine Korean red pepper flakes, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sugar. Mix well to form a paste.
  5. Coat the Cucumbers:
    • In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained cucumber slices with the kimchi paste until evenly coated.
  6. Fermentation:
    • Pack the kimchi mixture into clean glass jars, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets.
    • Leave about 1 inch of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion during fermentation.
    • Seal the jars tightly and let them ferment at room temperature for 1-2 days, depending on your preference for flavor and fermentation level.
  7. Store and Enjoy:
    • Once fermented to your liking, transfer the jars to the refrigerator to slow down the fermentation process.
    • Cucumber kimchi can be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks to months.
    • Enjoy cucumber kimchi as a side dish, in salads, sandwiches, or as a topping for rice or noodles.

Benefits for Gut Health:

  • Probiotics: Cucumber kimchi still contains beneficial bacteria from fermentation that support a healthy gut microbiome.
  • Low Goitrogen: Cucumber is a low-goitrogen vegetable, making it suitable for individuals with hypothyroidism.
  • Fiber: Cucumber provides dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and regular bowel movements.
  • Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger in kimchi provide antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect the gut lining.

Prepare this easy cucumber kimchi recipe to enjoy a flavorful and gut-healthy fermented dish without cabbage, suitable for individuals with hypothyroidism.

Benefits of This Recipe:

  1. Probiotics: Enjoy the benefits of beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut microbiome.
  2. Low Goitrogen: Made with cucumber, a low-goitrogen vegetable, making it thyroid-friendly.
  3. Fiber: Cucumber provides dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regular bowel movements.
  4. Antioxidants: Garlic and ginger in kimchi offer antioxidants that reduce inflammation and protect the gut lining.

Nutritive Value:

  • Cucumbers: Provide hydration, vitamins (like vitamin K and vitamin C), minerals (such as potassium and magnesium), and dietary fiber.
  • Sea Salt: Adds flavor and helps draw out moisture from cucumbers during salting.
  • Korean Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru): Adds spicy flavor and contributes to antioxidant content.
  • Garlic: Offers immune-boosting properties and adds flavor to the kimchi.
  • Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, ginger enhances the taste of the kimchi.
  • Fish Sauce or Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor and depth to the kimchi.
  • Sugar: Balances the flavors and aids in the fermentation process.

Prepare this easy-to-make cucumber kimchi recipe to enjoy a flavorful and gut-healthy dish that complements a variety of meals!

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