Crispy and Fragrant Seasoned Soybean Sprouts
[3-Minute Side Dish] Amazingly Quick and Crunchy Seasoned Soybean Sprouts
Soybean sprouts offer a different charm compared to bean sprouts, boasting a delightful crunch and fresh flavor. This is a wonderful staple side dish that perfectly balances tenderness and crispiness, enhancing your enjoyment with every bite! Especially during hot summer days, it’s a refreshing and delicious addition to your meals. It’s versatile as a rice accompaniment or as a topping for bibimbap!
Ingredients- 200g fresh soybean sprouts
- 2/3 tsp salt
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (or ground sesame seeds)
- A small amount of red chili pepper (optional, for garnish and added flavor)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently rinse the soybean sprouts under clean running water to remove any impurities. Be careful not to wash them too vigorously, as this can impart a raw taste.
Step 2
In a bowl, prepare the seasoning ingredients. You’ll need 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Also, measure out 2/3 tsp of salt to add when blanching the sprouts. Fill a pot with plenty of water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
Step 3
Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the rinsed soybean sprouts along with the 2/3 tsp of salt. Adding salt at this stage helps maintain the sprouts’ crispiness. Blanch the sprouts for precisely 1 minute and 30 seconds. Be sure to time this carefully, as overcooking will make them mushy!
Step 4
Immediately after blanching, drain the soybean sprouts and quickly rinse them under cold running water to cool them down. This process, known as a ‘cold shower,’ is excellent for preserving their crunchy texture and vibrant green color.
Step 5
Take the cooled sprouts and firmly grasp them with both hands, squeezing out as much water as possible. Excess water can dilute the seasoning. Place the squeezed sprouts in the bowl and add the prepared minced garlic, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. For an attractive appearance and enhanced flavor, you can add a little finely chopped red chili pepper. Now, gently toss and mix everything with your hands until well combined. It’s important to mix gently to ensure the seasoning coats the sprouts evenly without crushing them.
Step 6
And there you have it – delicious seasoned soybean sprouts with a perfect crisp! The natural freshness of the sprouts combined with the nutty sesame oil and pungent garlic creates an appetizing side dish that’s perfect for whetting your appetite. Enjoy your meal!
