Chewy and Refreshing Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
A Delicious and Chewy Oi Muchim to Awaken Your Appetite
Having homemade pickled cucumbers (oi) on hand always makes me feel prepared! This Oi Muchim recipe is incredibly satisfying and a true star side dish. It’s wonderfully refreshing and has a delightful chewy texture. Give it a try!
Main Ingredients- 6 pickled cucumbers (oi)
Seasoning Ingredients- 3 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (or syrup)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 3 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp plum extract (or syrup)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare all the ingredients needed for your delicious Oi Muchim. Rinse the pickled cucumbers under cold water to start.
Step 2
Slice the pickled cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, about 0.5 cm thick. Slicing them too thickly might prevent the seasonings from penetrating well, while slicing them too thinly can reduce the enjoyable chewy texture.
Step 3
Soak the sliced pickled cucumbers in cold water for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps to remove excess saltiness, preserving a crisp and chewy texture.
Step 4
Drain the pickled cucumbers from the cold water and squeeze out as much liquid as possible using both hands. Thoroughly removing the water is crucial for the seasonings to adhere well and to prevent the dish from becoming watery.
Step 5
Place the squeezed pickled cucumbers in a bowl. Add the red pepper flakes first and gently mix to coat the cucumbers, giving them a nice color.
Step 6
Next, add the plum extract (or syrup) for a sweet and tangy flavor, and mix well.
Step 7
Stir in the minced garlic for a fragrant aroma. Be mindful not to add too much garlic, as it can make the dish overly pungent.
Step 8
Drizzle in the sesame oil generously for a rich, nutty flavor.
Step 9
Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the mixture. These add a lovely nutty aroma and visual appeal.
Step 10
Gently mix everything together with your hands, as if ‘massaging’ it (‘jow-jow’). Be careful not to mash the cucumbers. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed for the best flavor.
Step 11
Voila! Your delicious Oi Muchim is ready, looking appetizing enough to make you salivate! (Star emoji)
Step 12
Serve your lovingly prepared Oi Muchim beautifully on a plate. It makes a wonderful, satisfying side dish that adds abundance to any meal. Enjoy your culinary creation!
