Korean Grilled Napa Cabbage (Baechu Gui) Recipe

Introduction

Korean Grilled Napa Cabbage, or Baechu Gui, is a simple yet bold-flavored dish that's perfect for the grill. The combination of nutty sesame oil, umami-rich soy sauce, and a touch of heat creates a side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a Korean BBQ spread. By cooking it on the Arteflame grill, you get that incredible smoky char while keeping the cabbage tender and juicy. Let's fire up the grill and make this flavorful side dish!

Ingredients

• 1 head Napa cabbage, halved or quartered
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the oil-soaked napkins.
3. Light the paper and allow the firewood to catch.
4. Wait about 20 minutes until the cooktop is fully heated and ready for grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the cabbage and marinade

1. Cut the Napa cabbage in half lengthwise, or into quarters if it's large, keeping the core intact to hold the leaves together.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, gochugaru, and garlic.
3. Brush the marinade generously over the cut sides of the cabbage.

Step 3: Grill the cabbage

1. Place the cabbage cut-side down on the hotter part of the Arteflame cooktop, closer to the center.
2. Grill for 3-5 minutes until lightly charred, then flip to cook the other cut side.
3. Move the cabbage to a slightly cooler zone and continue grilling for another 3-5 minutes until tender.

Step 4: Add finishing touches

1. Melt the butter over the grilled cabbage for extra flavor.
2. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
3. Remove from the grill and serve immediately.

Tips

• For more char, press the cabbage down slightly onto the grill while cooking.
• Adjust heat zones on the Arteflame cooktop to achieve the perfect balance of sear and tenderness.
• Use freshly toasted sesame seeds for the best nutty aroma and crunch.

Variations

1. Spicy Gochujang Glaze: Add 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for a spicier kick.
2. Garlic Butter Cabbage: Replace sesame oil with garlic-infused butter for a rich, savory flavor.
3. Sweet Soy Glazed: Increase honey to 2 teaspoons and add a splash of mirin for a slightly sweeter profile.
4. Miso-Glazed: Mix 1 teaspoon of white miso paste into the marinade for deeper umami.
5. Smoky Bacon Cabbage: Grill bacon strips alongside the cabbage and crumble them on top before serving.

Best Pairings

• Grilled Bulgogi (Korean BBQ beef)
• Grilled galbi (Korean short ribs)
• Kimchi and steamed rice
• Grilled tofu with soy glaze
• Korean-style potato salad

Conclusion

Korean Grilled Napa Cabbage is an easy, flavor-packed dish that pairs beautifully with any BBQ spread. Cooking it on the Arteflame grill enhances its natural sweetness and gives it a fantastic smoky char. Whether served as a side or a hearty vegetarian option, it's a must-try for outdoor grilling enthusiasts.