Spicy and Tangy Whelk Bibim Guksu (Spicy Mixed Noodles)
How to Make Whelk and Noodle Salad (ft. Whelk Bibim Guksu – a Budget-Friendly Meal Option)
Our family loves meat, but as a mom, I always try to balance it with vegetables. This often leaves me with leftover salad greens and other veggies. My go-to solution for these odds and ends is Whelk Salad or Whelk Bibim Guksu! By adding a generous amount of available vegetables and one can of whelks, you can create a delicious dish that doubles as a fantastic appetizer or side. Especially on a rainy day, a spicy and tangy whelk bibim guksu paired with kimchi pancakes makes for the perfect dinner. This recipe is not only simple and appetizing but also a great way to save money while enjoying a hearty meal.
Main Ingredients- 1 can of whelks (for 2-3 servings)
- 1/5 head of cabbage
- 1/3 carrot
- 1 cucumber
- 5-6 large lettuce leaves
- 5-6 perilla leaves
- 1/2 onion
Spicy and Tangy Sauce- 3 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 Tbsp Maesil Extract (Plum Extract)
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (Oligosaccharide syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 0.5 Tbsp Vinegar
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 3 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 Tbsp Maesil Extract (Plum Extract)
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (Oligosaccharide syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 0.5 Tbsp Vinegar
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Today’s main dish is Whelk Bibim Guksu, made with one can of whelks. We’ll be adding plenty of vegetables like cabbage, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, perilla leaves, and onion – whatever you have on hand! You can use leftover vegetables for most of the ingredients, except for the whelks and cucumber. This method is perfect for saving money and creating a bountiful meal.
Step 2
Let’s prepare the spicy and tangy sauce for the Whelk Bibim Guksu. If you plan to mix in noodles, combine the following sauce ingredients. If you prefer just the whelk salad without noodles, you can slightly adjust the sauce ratios. (3 Tbsp Gochujang, 3 Tbsp Maesil Extract, 1 Tbsp Sugar, 1 Tbsp Oligodang, 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce, 0.5 Tbsp Vinegar, 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic)
Step 3
Wash and prepare the vegetables. For the onion, slice it thinly and soak it in cold water for about 10 minutes. This step helps to remove its pungent flavor and makes it delightfully crisp. This way, even those who dislike strong onion flavors can enjoy it.
Step 4
Slice the cucumber, carrot, and cabbage into bite-sized pieces or julienne them. Tear the lettuce and perilla leaves into large pieces by hand or cut them into strips. Gathering all the prepped vegetables in one bowl will make mixing easier in the next step.
Step 5
Drain the can of whelks, reserving some of the liquid if desired for extra flavor. Cut the whelks into bite-sized pieces. Aim for 2-3 pieces per whelk to ensure a satisfying chew; cutting them too small can reduce the texture.
Step 6
Don’t discard all the liquid from the whelk can! Set aside about 2 tablespoons of the whelk brine and add it to your sauce. This liquid adds a wonderful umami depth and acts as a natural flavor enhancer, contributing to a rich taste without any fishiness.
Step 7
Add the cut whelks to the prepared spicy and tangy sauce. Gently mix them to coat the whelks evenly with the sauce. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the whelks tough.
Step 8
Now, let’s cook the somen noodles. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, add the somen noodles, and cook until they are perfectly al dente. Immediately rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process and drain well. This ensures the noodles remain chewy and don’t become mushy.
Step 9
Add all the prepared vegetables to the bowl with the sauce and whelks. Gently toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated with the sauce. Be careful not to mash the vegetables while mixing.
Step 10
Finish by drizzling a tablespoon of sesame oil over the mixture for a nutty aroma, and sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds. The combination of sesame oil and seeds truly elevates the dish!
Step 11
Arrange the cooked and drained somen noodles attractively in a serving bowl. Presenting it nicely not only makes it visually appealing but also perfect for photos! (This step is optional; you can proceed to mix everything together immediately.)
Step 12
Transfer the noodles and the vegetable-whelk mixture into a large mixing bowl (or back into the original bowl). Mix everything together thoroughly with your hands for that authentic ‘home-style’ touch. This is the Hugolmom’s signature style, resulting in a quick and delicious Whelk Bibim Guksu that’s a satisfying meal or a delightful appetizer.
Step 13
Take a generous bite, combining the vegetables, noodles, and whelks! The explosion of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors will tantalize your taste buds and relieve any stress. Enjoy your delicious meal!
