Pa Kimchi (Green Onion Kimchi)

Pa kimchi, also known as green onion kimchi, is a delicious and refreshing variation of the traditional Korean kimchi. Made with fresh green onions, Korean chili flakes, and fish sauce, this quick kimchi is ready in 20 minutes and makes a perfect as a side dish or condiment to any Korean meal.

If you’re a fan of kimchi and looking for something new to try this spring and summer, why not give green onion kimchi, Pa kimchi in Korean, a go? Also known as scallion kimchi, this variation of the classic Korean dish can be made using fresh spring onions and a few key seasonings.

And don’t let the fancy name fool you, because pa kimchi is a quick and easy dish to make with just a few simple ingredients. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a refreshing side dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s adaptable for vegan diets!

But green onion kimchi isn’t the only veggie-based kimchi worth trying during the warmer months. Cucumber kimchi, perilla leaf kimchi (kkaennip kimchi) and chive kimchi (buchu kimchi) are a few examples of the delicious and refreshing kimchi options you can experiment with.

Pa kimchi has become a popular side dish to serve with Jjajangmyeon (Korean black bean noodles) in recent years. The zesty and tangy flavors of the green onion kimchi perfectly complement the rich and savory taste of the noodles, making it a fantastic and delicious pairing that you should try if you’re curious

Tips for Selecting Green Onion for Pa Kimchi

To make pa kimchi, you should use fresh green onions or scallions. In Korea, they are called Jjokpa (쪽파) and they are often sold in bundles in Korean and other Asian markets.

Look for slim green onions with a bright color for pa kimchi. Both the white and green parts can be used in the kimchi, but make sure to remove any roots or tough outer layers. And don’t forget to give them a good wash and pat dry before using them in your recipe!

Got yourself a large bundle of fresh green onions and looking for some recipe inspiration? Here are a few dishes that can help you make good use of them:

• Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancake): A savory pancake made with scallions and seafood (optional). It’s a popular street food in Korea and can be served as a snack or appetizer.
• Korean green onion salad: A refreshing side dish salad made with thinly sliced green onions, red chili flakes, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. It’s a great accompaniment to Korean samgyupsal BBQ.
• Quick Sesame Soba noodles: A simple and quick noodle dish made with soba noodles, green onions, sesame seeds, soy sauce, and a touch of sugar. It’s a great option for a light lunch or dinner.
• Simple Egg Fried Rice: A classic fried rice dish made with eggs, rice, green onions, and soy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with additional vegetables or protein.

Try your hand at one of these recipes and get ready to savor the delicious and versatile flavor of fresh green onions!

Ingredient list

• Green onion: Also known as scallions or spring onions. They provide a fresh and zesty flavor to the dish.
• Onion: Adds a mild and sweet flavor to the aromatic puree that forms the base of the kimchi.
• Apple (or Asian pear): Provides natural sweetness and helps to tenderize the green onions. Asian pear is often used in traditional recipes, but apple is a common substitute.
• Ginger: Adds a warm and slightly spicy flavor to the aromatic puree.
• Korean fish sauce: Either anchovy sauce (myulchi acjeot) or another type of Korean fish sauce can be used. It adds a savory and umami depth to the dish.
• Korean plum extract (optional): Provides a subtle fruitiness to the kimchi and can be added for extra flavor complexity.
• Korean chili flakes (gochugaru): Gives the kimchi its signature red color and spicy kick. It’s a staple ingredient in Korean cuisine and adds a bold flavor to many dishes.

How to Make Pa Kimchi

Step 1. Prepare the aromatics

In a mini blender, combine onion, apple (or Asian pear), ginger, fish sauce, and Korean plum extract (if using). Blend until smooth.

Vegan adaptation tip: If you want to enjoy as a vegan kimchi, replace fish sauce with Korean soup soy sauce.

Step 2. Add chili flakes (gochugaru)

Pour the aromatic paste into a bowl and add the Korean chili flakes (gochugaru). Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes to allow the gochugaru to rehydrate and intensify in color, forming a paste-like consistency.

Step 3. Apply the seasoning paste

Take a small portion of the green onion and apply the seasoning paste, spreading it evenly around the onion. Repeat with the rest of the green onions, then store the pa kimchi in an airtight container.

Expert Tip: When making pa kimchi, it’s efficient to use a shallow baking sheet.

Tips for storing and serving

To properly store pa kimchi, let it sit at room temperature for one day before placing it in the refrigerator. The flavor will continue to develop as it ferments in the fridge over the course of 2-3 weeks, but you can consume it immediately.

When serving, use a knife or a pair of kitchen scissors to cut the pa kimchi into your desired size for easy serving.

Dishes to pair with Pa Kimchi

• Jjajangmyeon: Korean-Chinese dish with wheat noodles, black bean sauce, diced pork or seafood, and vegetables.
• Jjamppong: Spicy Korean soup with seafood, noodles, and vegetables.
• Bulgogi: Classic Korean dish with thin slices of marinated beef, grilled or pan-fried until tender.
• LA Galbi: Korean-style short rib dish, marinated and grilled or broiled.
• Beef Seaweed Soup: Savory Korean soup with beef, seaweed, and various vegetables.