Crispy and Refreshing Spicy-Sweet Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
Spicy-Sweet Cucumber Salad
Experience the delightful crunch of fresh cucumbers perfectly balanced with a mouthwatering spicy and sweet dressing. We’ve prepared Oi Muchim, a dish that stands out among many cucumber preparations for its incredible taste. Let us introduce you to this wonderful dish!
Main Ingredients
- 4 cucumbers
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- A little scallion
- A little sugar
- 1 tsp salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Hello everyone! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe for Oi Muchim, a refreshingly crisp and flavorful Korean cucumber salad. It’s a simple yet incredibly delicious side dish!
Step 2
First, wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Then, slice them thinly into rounds, about 0.5 cm thick. Slicing them too thick might prevent the seasoning from penetrating well, while slicing them too thin can make them mushy. Aim for a consistent, moderate thickness for the best texture.
Step 3
Lightly season the sliced cucumbers with 1 teaspoon of salt and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, enhancing their crispiness and removing any potential bitterness. After salting, gently squeeze out any excess water from the cucumbers.
Step 4
Now, let’s prepare the seasoning! In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of gochujang, 1 teaspoon of gochugaru, a small amount of finely chopped scallion, and a little sugar. You can adjust the sugar to your preference for sweetness.
Step 5
Finally, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. The nutty aroma of sesame oil will significantly enhance the overall flavor of your cucumber salad.
Step 6
Add the drained cucumbers to the prepared seasoning. Gently toss and mix with your hands, ensuring the seasoning coats every slice evenly. Be careful not to overmix or mash the cucumbers; a gentle hand is key to preserving their delightful crunch.
Step 7
For the final touch, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds over the salad. This adds a wonderful nutty flavor and makes the dish look even more appealing.
Step 8
Your delicious Oi Muchim is now ready! The satisfying crunch of the cucumbers combined with the perfectly balanced spicy and sweet dressing creates a magical side dish that will have you finishing your rice in no time. Enjoy your meal!
