Preparing this crunchy, fiery-flavored condiment is nearly effortless, but it is a two-day process, so you’ve got to start well before you plan to serve it. Once it’s done, you can store it in its brine, covered, in the fridge for up to three weeks, then offer it in a bowl, or pop it straight in your mouth. For a fun flavor variation, toss it with a little lemon juice before serving.
Servings2cups
Ingredients
3tablespoonskosher salt
1large daikon radishpeeled and cut into 1-inch dice
2teaspoonsfish sauce
1teaspoonpeeledchopped fresh ginger
1⁄3 teaspoon chopped garlic
1⁄4 cup peeledchopped apple
1⁄3 cup Korean chile powder
Instructions
In a stainless-steel mixing bowl, whisk 2 cups water with the salt until completely dissolved. Add the daikon, press it down with something heavy (a water-filled, sealed glass jar or a plate) that will keep it submerged, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest at room temperature overnight. Once you see small bubbles at the surface (the brine is fermenting), drain the daikon, reserving the brine, and return the daikon to the bowl.
In a blender, combine 2 cups of the brine and the fish sauce, ginger, garlic, and apple and puree. Pour the puree over the daikon, sprinkle with chile powder, and mix well. Weigh down the daikon again to ensure it’s submerged in the brine and let it rest at room temperature overnight.
When the brine tastes a little sour, it’s fermented and ready to transfer to a sealable container. Cover the surface with plastic wrap, then seal the container and refrigerate until ready to use