Crispy Bell Pepper Namul with Doenjang
Enjoy this delightful bell pepper namul, made even better with its satisfying crunch!
My acquaintance generously shared bell peppers they grew themselves, so I’ve tried making stir-fries and seasoned them with doenjang. This dish is also perfect to serve alongside grilled meats! It’s a wonderfully fresh and crunchy side dish that highlights the natural flavors of the bell peppers.
Main Ingredients- 1 Bell Pepper (or Green Pepper)
- 1 Green Chili Pepper (or Jalapeño)
- 1 Red Chili Pepper
- A small amount of Onion
- A small amount of Green Onion
- 1/3 tsp Minced Garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare one bell pepper (or green pepper) and about a quarter of an onion, which will add a lovely aroma. While one bell pepper makes a good portion, adding onion enhances the sweetness and overall flavor, making it even more delicious.
Step 2
Trim the stem off the bell pepper (or green pepper), carefully remove the seeds, and then slice it into bite-sized pieces. Aim for pieces that are not too small, about 0.7-1 cm thick, to ensure a satisfying crunch.
Step 3
Finely mince the green chili pepper (or jalapeño) and red chili pepper after removing their seeds, to add a pleasant spiciness. Finely chop the green onion as well. Slice the onion into thin strips, similar in size to the bell pepper pieces.
Step 4
Now, let’s make the delicious seasoning! In a bowl, add 1-2 tablespoons of doenjang. It’s best to adjust the amount based on the saltiness of your doenjang. Next, add 1 teaspoon of fragrant sesame oil, 1/2 teaspoon of corn syrup (or oligosaccharide) for a touch of sweetness, and a generous amount of sesame seeds.
Step 5
Using a spoon or a whisk, thoroughly mix all the prepared seasoning ingredients until well combined. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) or even a tiny bit of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra umami, according to your preference.
Step 6
Combine the sliced bell pepper (or green pepper), onion, minced chili peppers, and chopped green onion in the bowl with the seasoning. Gently toss everything together with your hands, being careful not to mash the vegetables. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 7
Transfer the well-mixed bell pepper namul to a serving plate. The crispy texture, the savory depth of the doenjang, and the fresh flavor of the vegetables create a truly delightful taste! It offers a unique charm compared to regular chili namul. Enjoy it over a bowl of warm rice or as a refreshing side dish with your favorite meat dishes.
