KIMCHI CAN IMPROVE MOOD

Kimchi Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 medium Napa cabbage

• 1/4 cup sea salt

• 6 cups water

• 1 tablespoon grated garlic

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1-2 tablespoons Korean chili powder (gochugaru)

• 3-4 green onions, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup radish, julienned

• 1/4 cup fish sauce or soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice flour or cornstarch

• 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Cut the Napa cabbage lengthwise into quarters and remove the core. Cut each quarter crosswise into 2-inch strips.

2. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the salt in the water. Add the cabbage and mix well to ensure all pieces are submerged. Let sit for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes.

3. Drain the cabbage and rinse under cold water 3 times. Squeeze out any excess water.

4. In a small mixing bowl, combine the garlic, ginger, sugar, chili powder, green onions, radish, and fish sauce or soy sauce. Mix well.

5. Add the cabbage to the mixture and mix well, ensuring all pieces are coated.

6. In a small saucepan, combine the rice flour or cornstarch and 1/4 cup water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

7. Add the cooled rice flour mixture to the cabbage mixture and mix well.

8. Pack the mixture into a jar or container, pressing down firmly to remove any air pockets. Leave at least 1 inch of space at the top.

9. Cover the jar or container and let sit at room temperature for 1-5 days, depending on your preference. Check daily and press down on the mixture to ensure it stays submerged in the liquid.

10. Once the kimchi is ready, store in the refrigerator. It will continue to ferment and develop flavor over time.

Gut Health Benefits of Kimchi:

Kimchi is a fermented food, which means it contains live bacteria known as probiotics. These probiotics can help to improve gut health by increasing the diversity and abundance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help to improve digestion and nutrient absorption, as well as boost the immune system. In addition, kimchi is rich in fiber, which can help to promote bowel regularity and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Mental Health Benefits of Kimchi:

Kimchi also contains a range of nutrients that may support mental health. For example, it is rich in vitamin C, which has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety. It also contains a compound called GABA, which has been shown to have calming and anti-anxiety effects. In addition, the spicy flavor of kimchi may help to stimulate the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce stress.