Why is a tightly sealing container important for kimchi? Find out how a good seal helps manage odors and maintain the proper fermentation environment.
1 Answer
While not strictly mandatory, using a tightly sealing container for kimchi fermentation is highly recommended to minimize exposure to unwanted bacteria and mold, control the fermentation environment, and prevent strong odors from escaping.
Detailed Explanation:
Kimchi fermentation relies on beneficial lactic acid bacteria (LAB) to thrive and create the characteristic sour and tangy flavor. A tightly sealing container helps create an anaerobic (oxygen-deprived) environment, which favors the growth of LAB while inhibiting the growth of spoilage organisms like mold and undesirable bacteria that prefer oxygen. While some kimchi recipes traditionally use porous earthenware, modern home fermentation often benefits from tighter seals. A good seal also helps to maintain a more consistent temperature and humidity level inside the container, which are important factors for successful fermentation. Finally, kimchi produces strong odors during fermentation. A tightly sealed container helps contain these smells, preventing them from permeating your refrigerator or kitchen. However, it's important to 'burp' the container periodically to release excess CO2 produced during fermentation, preventing pressure buildup.
Pro Tip:
When using a tightly sealing container, remember to 'burp' it daily during the initial stages of fermentation (the first 2-3 days) to release built-up gases. Otherwise, the pressure could cause the container to crack or even explode.