Chewy and Delicious Summer Delicacy: Super Simple Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
The Ultimate Summer Side Dish to Revitalize Your Appetite: Super Simple Oiji Muchim Recipe
Feeling a lack of appetite in the hot summer? This Oiji Muchim (seasoned pickled cucumbers) is perfect even when paired with simple plain rice and water! If you have pickled cucumbers, this dish is incredibly easy and quick to make. Let me show you how to prepare this fantastic summer side dish that’s all about that satisfying chewy texture and savory flavor!
Ingredients- 2 pickled cucumbers (Oiji)
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (Maesilcheong)
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare 2 large pickled cucumbers (Oiji). Using larger ones will give you a generous portion.
Step 2
Slice the pickled cucumbers as thinly as possible. Thin slices allow the seasoning to penetrate better and improve the texture.
Step 3
Since oiji is preserved in salt, it will be very salty if seasoned directly. Soak the sliced oiji in cold water for about 15-20 minutes to thoroughly remove the saltiness. Changing the water once or twice during soaking will yield even better results.
Step 4
After rinsing out the saltiness, drain the oiji on a sieve. Then, using a clean kitchen towel or a thin cotton cloth (like a traditional Korean hemp cloth), squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This step is key to achieving that signature chewy texture.
Step 5
Place the squeezed oiji into a mixing bowl. They should now have a wonderfully chewy consistency due to the removed moisture.
Step 6
Now it’s time to add all the delicious seasonings! Combine 2 Tbsp chopped green onion, 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and 1 Tbsp plum extract (Maesilcheong). Mix everything evenly.
Step 7
Finally, drizzle in 0.5 Tbsp of sesame oil and gently toss everything together again. This adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 8
Sprinkle with a pinch of sesame seeds, transfer to a serving plate, and your Oiji Muchim is ready! This chewy and flavorful summer side dish is a guaranteed hit with rice.
