Question about Ssamjang

[nomadchowwoman]

When I cut through the protective covering after I opened my tub of ssamjang, I discovered a little foil packet between the two layers (foil and plastic film) of covering. I haven't opened it, but it feels like granules (possibly salt). Can anyone advise me as to whether this packet contains something meant to be stirred into the paste or is it just a dessicant packet?

[hannaone]

It's a desiccant.

[ChristinaMason]

thank goodness for you, hannaone!

[nomadchowwoman]

Yes indeed--without hannaone, I probably wouldn't have found the ssamjang in the first place. And I wouldn't be prepping my Bo Ssam for tomorrow or waiting for my first ever batch of kimchi to ferment!

[BigSal]

Congratulations on making your first batch of kimchi! If your experience is anything like mine, you will not want to buy a jar of kimchi again.

[kubasd]

The homemade kimchi I've had made the jarred stuff taste.... flat. It spoiled me! I almost wish I HADN'T tasted the homemade....