Acorn Jelly Salad: A Refreshing Summer Delight
Beat the Heat with This Zesty and Sweet Acorn Jelly Salad!
This recipe is inspired by a visit to the local market where I picked up some fresh acorn jelly. I decided to pair it with crisp cucumbers and other vibrant vegetables for a refreshing and delightful salad that’s perfect for a warm summer day. The combination of textures and the tangy, sweet dressing makes it an irresistible treat!
Main Ingredients- 1/2 block Acorn Jelly (approx. 200g)
- 1/2 Cucumber
- 1/4 Carrot
- 1/4 Onion
- 3-4 Lettuce leaves
Zesty Dressing- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Cooking Wine (Mirin)
- A pinch of Sesame Seeds (optional)
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Plum Extract (Maesil)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Vinegar
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Cooking Wine (Mirin)
- A pinch of Sesame Seeds (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, carefully cut the firm acorn jelly into bite-sized rectangular pieces. Handle it gently to prevent it from breaking apart. For an even smoother texture, you can briefly blanch the jelly in boiling water before cutting.
Step 2
Next, prepare the refreshing cucumber. Wash it thoroughly and then slice it into pieces similar in size to the acorn jelly. Cucumber is an essential ingredient in this salad, adding a wonderful crunch and coolness!
Step 3
Let’s add some color and crunch with the carrot. Julienne the carrot into thin strips, similar in size to the cucumber. The natural sweetness of the carrot will beautifully balance the flavors.
Step 4
Thinly slice the onion. To mellow its sharp flavor and enhance its crispness, you can soak the sliced onions in cold water for a few minutes, then drain them well before adding to the salad.
Step 5
Finally, add some fresh greens by roughly chopping the lettuce leaves into about 2-3 cm pieces. Lettuce adds a lovely fresh aroma and a tender contrast to the other ingredients.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the delicious dressing! Start by adding 2 tablespoons of Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to a mixing bowl.
Step 7
Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic for a burst of flavor. Fresh garlic really elevates the taste of this dish.
Step 8
Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. This savory base will harmonize all the ingredients.
Step 9
Add 1 tablespoon of sugar for a touch of sweetness. If you prefer a sweeter salad, feel free to add an extra half tablespoon. Adjust to your liking!
Step 10
Stir in 1 tablespoon of plum extract (Maesil). This adds a delightful fruity sweetness and a pleasant tang that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 11
Add 1 tablespoon of vinegar for a refreshing sour note. The vinegar cuts through any richness and stimulates your appetite.
Step 12
Include 1 tablespoon of cooking wine (Mirin) to help tenderize the ingredients and reduce any potential odors, while also adding a subtle depth of flavor.
Step 13
For a final flourish, add a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Gently crushing them before adding will release more of their nutty aroma and make the dish look even more appealing. (Optional)
Step 14
Alright, all the dressing ingredients are ready! Pour the prepared dressing over the acorn jelly and vegetables in the mixing bowl.
Step 15
Gently toss everything together until the acorn jelly and vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. The key is to mix gently to avoid breaking the jelly. Toss just enough to combine, and your delicious and visually appealing Acorn Jelly Salad will be ready to serve!
