Kimchi Jeon (& Kimchi)

I've been on a Korean kick lately and wanted to try my hand at some classic Korean dishes. I had some pretty tasty bibimbap and bulgogi tofu.

But only one recipe really shined - kimchi pancakes! This recipe is totally great with store-bought kimchi, but once you are in the mood, why not whip up your own kim chi. It's really quite easy.

Kimchi Jeon:

1 c kim chi, with juices (see recipe below)
1/4 c kim chi juice
1 c blend of flours (more than 50% rice)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 t baking powder
1/2 c water

Mix in big bowl, add more water if neccessary for desired consistency. I say "desired" because when recipes call for "pancake" consistency I never have a clue what they mean. Anyway, fry into pancakes, pat excess oil, cool just so slightly then devour.

Kimchi (FYI this makes a LOT):

1 head napa cabbage
16 cups water
1/2 cup salt

8 green onions, chopped
1 daikon radish, cut into matchsticks
6 big cloves garlic, minced
2 Tbsp minced ginger
2 Tbsp white miso
1/2 c Korean chili powder
1 teaspoon sugar

First core the cabbage and chop into managable pieces. Put into a really large bowl and cover with water, mix in salt, and cover with a plate (to immerse all the cabbage). Let set for a couple hours.

Mix the remaining ingredients in a similar sized giant bowl, should you have more than one. Drain and rinse the cabbage and mix it all together.

Pack into jars (I got 3 quarts and 1 pint). Allow 1/2 inch or more headspace and finger tighten lid. Leave in a warm spot for about a day.  The rate of fermentation is highly dependent on your climate.  Some people have a negative thing or two to say about Sacramento's weather, but WOW does it foster some quality fermenation.  I've already had a couple fermenation disasters, it can get out of hand quick here.  Anway. Kim chi. Once it starts bubbling pop in the fridge. It will smell bad, don't worry, totally normal.  Wait another week then start tasting it to see how you like it. It will become increasingly sour the longer you wait, but will stay good for more than a month. Once you realize it's at that point past your preference, you still have 3 quarts to eat --- so make some pancakes, quick!