Kimchara (Kimchi Atsara)

Atsara, also known as Filipino pickled green papaya, is a delicious and tangy side dish commonly served in the Philippines.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish that consists of fermented vegetables, primarily cabbage and Korean radishes, with the addition of various seasonings. It is a staple in Korean cuisine and is often served as a side dish. Kimchi can be found in numerous variations, with different regions and households having their own unique recipes.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 medium-sized green papaya, peeled and julienned

• 1 medium-sized carrot, peeled and julienned

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup white vinegar

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns

• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

• Raisins (optional, for added sweetness)

• 1/2 cup water

• 1/4 cup fish sauce

• 1/4 cup soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons sesame oil

• 1 teaspoon Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru), optional for extra heat

• 1 cup gochujang (Korean red pepper paste)

• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the julienned green papaya, carrot, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion.

2. In a separate saucepan, combine the white vinegar, sugar, salt, black peppercorns, ginger, water, gochujang, fish sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring until the sugar and salt are dissolved.

3. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes.

5. Add the kimchi sauce and the vinegar mixture together.

6. Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables in the bowl. Make sure the vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid.

7. Add minced garlic to the bowl and mix everything well. If you want a sweeter Atsara, you can also add raisins at this point.

8. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least a few hours or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to develop.

9. Before serving, give it a good stir and adjust the seasoning if needed.

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