Creamy Perilla Seed and Cucumber Salad (Oi Deulkkae Muchim)
Savory and Refreshing Cucumber Salad with Toasted Perilla Seeds
Move beyond the typical spicy cucumber salad and try this incredibly savory and refreshing ‘Oi Deulkkae Muchim’! The nutty richness of perilla seeds perfectly complements the crispness of the cucumber, creating a delightful side dish that will awaken your appetite. Its savory and clean flavor profile balances the slight saltiness of the cucumber, making it an irresistible addition to any meal.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cucumber (approx. 170g)
- 1/2 Tbsp salt (approx. 5g)
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar (approx. 5g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by thoroughly washing the cucumber. Rinse it well under running water and pat it dry. Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then slice it thinly on the diagonal into about 0.5cm thick pieces. Ensure the slices aren’t too thick, as this helps the seasoning penetrate better and improves the texture.
Step 2
In a bowl, combine the sliced cucumber with the salt (1/2 Tbsp) and sugar (1/2 Tbsp). Gently mix them together and let the cucumber marinate for 10 minutes. The salt and sugar will draw out excess moisture through osmosis, making the cucumber wonderfully crisp.
Step 3
After 10 minutes, the cucumber will have released a significant amount of water. Gently squeeze out the excess liquid from the cucumber slices with your hands. It’s important not to wring them out completely; leave them slightly moist so they can absorb the dressing well without becoming bland.
Step 4
To the squeezed cucumber, add the nutty perilla seed powder (1 Tbsp), soy sauce (1/2 Tbsp) for savory depth, and fragrant sesame oil (1/2 Tbsp). Mix everything gently to coat the cucumber evenly. Be careful not to mash the cucumber; a gentle mix ensures an appealing presentation and delicious taste.
Step 5
Transfer the prepared cucumber salad to a serving plate. For a final touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle a pinch of black sesame seeds over the top. Your delicious and savory Oi Deulkkae Muchim is now ready to be enjoyed. Its fresh and nutty taste makes it a perfect side dish, especially when you need a little something to whet your appetite.
