Crisp and Refreshing Cucumber & Chive Salad (Oi Buchu Muchim)
Super Simple Summer Side Dish: The Fantastic Combination of Crisp Cucumber and Fragrant Chives – Cucumber & Chive Salad Recipe
Perfect for when you lose your appetite in the summer! This super simple summer side dish, Cucumber & Chive Salad, brings together fresh cucumbers and aromatic chives in a tangy and sweet mix. It’s so easy and delicious, it’ll become your favorite rice thief!
Main Ingredients- 2 cucumbers
- A handful of chives (approx. 50g)
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
- 4 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 onion, finely minced
- 70ml pear juice (or commercial pear juice)
- 7 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 1 Tbsp)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/3 Tbsp grated ginger or ginger paste
- 1/2 Tbsp coarse salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce
- 4 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 onion, finely minced
- 70ml pear juice (or commercial pear juice)
- 7 cloves garlic, minced (approx. 1 Tbsp)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/3 Tbsp grated ginger or ginger paste
- 1/2 Tbsp coarse salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the fresh cucumbers thoroughly under running water. Using a peeler, lightly peel the skin in strips or remove it completely for a cleaner look. Then, slice the cucumbers diagonally into about 0.5cm thick half-moon shapes. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with 1/2 Tbsp coarse salt. Gently mix and let them sit for 10 minutes to lightly salt. This process draws out some moisture, making the cucumbers crispier.
Step 2
The secret to a delicious Cucumber & Chive Salad is the seasoning! In a separate bowl, combine 2 Tbsp of fish sauce (or soy sauce), 4 Tbsp of red pepper flakes, 1/4 finely minced onion, 70ml of sweet pear juice, 7 minced garlic cloves, 1 Tbsp of plum extract, and 1/3 Tbsp of grated ginger (or ginger paste). Mix everything well. This seasoning blend creates a wonderful flavor without needing added sugar. Make this dressing ahead of time and let it sit for a bit; the flavors will meld beautifully. This seasoned mixture can be stored in the refrigerator and used for various other dishes.
Step 3
After salting for 10 minutes, drain any liquid from the cucumbers. Place the drained cucumbers on a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and gently squeeze out any excess moisture. Removing the water is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming watery and to maintain its crisp texture. Cut the clean chives into approximately 4cm lengths and add them to the bowl with the prepared cucumbers.
Step 4
Add about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the pre-made seasoning mixture (adjust to your taste) to the bowl containing the drained cucumbers and chopped chives. Gently toss the ingredients with your hands until the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cucumbers mushy. A light touch is best.
Step 5
Finally, sprinkle 1 Tbsp of toasted sesame seeds over the salad and gently mix them in. The nutty aroma of the sesame seeds adds a wonderful finishing touch. This salad is delicious served immediately, but it’s even more refreshing if you chill it in the refrigerator for a short while before serving.
