Aromatic & Tangy Korean Chive Salad (Buchu Muchim)
Easy 5-Minute Recipe for Fragrant and Crispy Fresh Kimchi Style Chives
The perfect side dish when you lack appetite! Introducing a fresh kimchi-style chive salad that fills your mouth with fragrance and tanginess. It’s a fantastic banchan (side dish) that complements rice perfectly, and it’s also a great partner for fatty foods like grilled pork belly, cutting through the richness. Anyone can easily make this, so give it a try right now!
Main Ingredients- 1 bunch fresh chives (approx. 50 stalks)
- 1/2 medium onion
- A small amount of carrot (for color)
Flavoring Seasonings- 1.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp salted fermented shrimp (use the liquid too)
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (e.g., anchovy or sand lance sauce for umami)
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (the secret to sweet and sour taste)
- 1 Tbsp ground toasted sesame seeds (for nutty flavor)
- A pinch of whole toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 tsp salted fermented shrimp (use the liquid too)
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce (e.g., anchovy or sand lance sauce for umami)
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (the secret to sweet and sour taste)
- 1 Tbsp ground toasted sesame seeds (for nutty flavor)
- A pinch of whole toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the fresh chives thoroughly under running water. Once the excess water is removed, trim them into bite-sized pieces, about 5-6 cm (2-2.5 inches) long. Thinly slice the onion into strips, and similarly, julienne the carrot to add color. (Tip: Cutting the chives too long might prevent the seasoning from coating them evenly, so aiming for a moderate length is key!)
Step 2
Place the prepared chives, sliced onion, and julienned carrot into a large mixing bowl. Now it’s time to add all the seasoning ingredients. Add the red pepper flakes, salted fermented shrimp (don’t forget the liquid – it adds great flavor!), fish sauce, plum extract for that sweet and sour kick, and ground toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma. Using a spatula or your hands, gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the chives. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. (Tip: Over-mixing can make the chives lose their crispiness, so a gentle toss is the secret!)
Step 3
Transfer the beautifully mixed chive salad to a serving plate. Finally, sprinkle a pinch of whole toasted sesame seeds over the top for an extra nutty aroma and visual appeal. Your fragrant and tangy kimchi-style chive salad is ready! It’s delicious served immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for a while before enjoying.
