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:
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into thin rounds or sticks.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Coat the Cucumbers:
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the drained cucumber slices with the kimchi paste until evenly coated.
- 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.
- 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.
May 28, 2024
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