Baek Jong-won’s Bibim Guksu (Spicy Mixed Noodles)
The Ultimate Baek Jong-won Bibim Guksu Recipe for When You Have No Appetite
It’s that kind of day when you’ve finished your morning errands and are back home, only to realize lunchtime has long passed. There’s plenty of rice in the cooker, and stew and ribs are waiting, but the thought of a plain meal just doesn’t appeal. Especially when dining alone, the appetite can sometimes wane. While pondering something to spark my taste buds, I decided on Bibim Guksu! Honestly, it’s one of those days where even boiling noodles feels like too much effort. This recipe is designed to be simple and incredibly satisfying, guaranteed to bring back your appetite.
Ingredients (Serves 4)- 400g dried somyeon noodles
- 11 cups water
- 2-3 cups kimchi (napa cabbage kimchi or kkakdugi recommended)
Bibim Guksu Sauce- 4 Tbsp soy sauce (jin ganjang)
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2-3 Tbsp sugar
- 1-2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce (jin ganjang)
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2-3 Tbsp sugar
- 1-2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, bring 11 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add 400g of dried somyeon noodles and stir gently to prevent them from sticking together. As the noodles cook and foam rises to the surface, add one cup of cold water. Repeat this process once more; this will result in chewier, more resilient noodles. (Note: This is for 4 servings. Adjust the noodle quantity if making a single portion.)
Step 2
While the noodles are boiling, let’s quickly prepare the flavorful sauce! In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp gochujang, 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 4 Tbsp soy sauce, and 2-3 Tbsp sugar. Whisk vigorously with a spoon until well combined. You can adjust the sugar to your preference.
Step 3
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold running water. This step removes excess heat and starch, ensuring the noodles are perfectly chewy and firm. Drain them well.
Step 4
Kimchi is a key ingredient that adds depth and flavor to Bibim Guksu. Finely chop some napa cabbage kimchi or, for an extra special touch, some kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi) that you might have prepared. Using kkakdugi will add a unique zestiness and delightful crunch.
Step 5
Now, let’s assemble the dish! Place the chilled, chewy noodles into a large mixing bowl. Top generously with the chopped kimchi. Spoon the Baek Jong-won-style Bibim Guksu sauce you prepared earlier over the noodles and kimchi. Finally, drizzle 1-2 Tbsp of sesame oil generously for a rich, nutty aroma.
Step 6
Gently mix everything together with chopsticks or your hands, ensuring the sauce and kimchi are evenly distributed throughout the noodles. As you mix, the fragrant aroma of sesame oil will start to tantalize your senses, making your mouth water. It feels like your lost appetite is making a comeback!
Step 7
Voila! Your very own Baek Jong-won’s Bibim Guksu is ready to be enjoyed. It’s simple, quick, and bursting with flavor – the perfect meal to revive your appetite. Enjoy every bite!
