Chewy and Refreshing Acorn Jelly Salad
Acorn Jelly Salad: An Easy Recipe with Delicious Seasoning
Experience the delightfully chewy texture of acorn jelly, perfectly complemented by a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables. This dish offers a wonderful harmony of textures and flavors, making it an excellent side dish for any meal. Its vibrant appearance and refreshing taste will brighten up your dining table!
Main Ingredients- 1 Acorn Jelly (320g): Slice into bite-sized pieces to enhance its chewy texture.
- 5 Lettuce leaves: For a fresh and crisp addition.
- 3 Perilla leaves: To add a fragrant aroma.
- 1/2 Cucumber: Provides a cool, crisp texture and refreshing taste.
- 1/4 Onion: Adds sweetness, flavor, and a satisfying crunch.
- 5 Stems of Water Parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous note.
- 2 Scallions: For a fresh, crisp element.
- 1 Green chili pepper: For a touch of heat and color.
- 1 Red chili pepper: For visual appeal and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 Tbsp Crushed Sesame Seeds: For a nutty flavor and texture finish.
- 1/2 Tbsp Sesame Oil: To add a rich, nutty aroma.
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): The base for a pleasant spiciness.
- 2.5 Tbsp Soy Sauce: For savory umami and saltiness.
- 1 tsp Plum Extract (Maesilcheong): Adds sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 tsp Sugar: Balances the sweetness.
- 2/3 Tbsp Minced Garlic: For a pungent kick and depth of flavor.
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes): The base for a pleasant spiciness.
- 2.5 Tbsp Soy Sauce: For savory umami and saltiness.
- 1 tsp Plum Extract (Maesilcheong): Adds sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1/2 tsp Sugar: Balances the sweetness.
- 2/3 Tbsp Minced Garlic: For a pungent kick and depth of flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the acorn jelly. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the entire block of acorn jelly and blanch it over medium heat for about 5 minutes. This process will enhance its naturally chewy texture, making it even more delightful to eat.
Step 2
After blanching, it’s crucial to drain the acorn jelly thoroughly in a colander. Excess water can dilute the dressing and affect the taste. Once drained, cut the acorn jelly into bite-sized pieces or your preferred shape. Avoid cutting it too thin to maintain a satisfying chew.
Step 3
Now, let’s prepare the vegetables. Wash the cucumber, halve it lengthwise, and slice it thinly on the diagonal, about 0.5 cm thick. Thinly slice the onion. Remove the seeds from the green and red chili peppers and slice them thinly on the diagonal. Cut the water parsley and scallions into 3-4 cm lengths. Tear or roughly chop the lettuce and perilla leaves into bite-sized pieces. Each vegetable will add its own unique texture and flavor.
Step 4
Let’s make the delicious seasoning! In a small bowl, combine 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 2.5 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp plum extract, 1/2 tsp sugar, and 2/3 Tbsp minced garlic. Whisk everything together with a spoon until well combined and there are no clumps. Ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed for a harmonious blend.
Step 5
Add the prepared cucumber, onion, and the blanched acorn jelly to the seasoning. Gently toss to coat everything evenly. Be careful not to overmix, as this can break down the acorn jelly. The key is to gently combine them so the seasoning coats everything smoothly.
Step 6
Now, let’s add the remaining ingredients and aromatics. Add the sliced green and red chilies, water parsley, and crisp scallions. Finally, drizzle in 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil and sprinkle with 1/2 Tbsp crushed sesame seeds. Mix lightly. Again, avoid vigorous mixing to preserve the textures.
Step 7
For the final touch, add the fresh lettuce and perilla leaves and toss just once or twice quickly. This ensures they remain crisp and fresh. Your delicious Acorn Jelly Salad is now ready to be served! Enjoy immediately.
