Crispy Cucumber Salad with Doenjang: A Simple Side Dish Recipe
Spicy and Savory Doenjang Cucumber Salad: Easy Homemade Side Dish
The perfect side dish for when you have no appetite! This crispy cucumber salad seasoned with doenjang is a delightful rice thief that will make you finish a whole bowl of rice in no time. The combination of the crisp texture of fresh cucumbers and the savory doenjang dressing is simply exquisite. It can be made in just 5 minutes with a few ingredients, making it a stress-free recipe even for those living alone or new to cooking.
Ingredients- 5-6 Korean Cucumbers (or Kirby Cucumbers): Choose fresh and crisp ones for the best texture.
- 2 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean Soybean Paste): You can use homemade or store-bought doenjang; it adds a rich, savory flavor.
- 0.5 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): Adds a spicy kick and umami, as well as a vibrant color.
- 0.5 Tbsp Minced Garlic: The pungent flavor of garlic enhances the depth of the doenjang dressing.
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (Corn Syrup) or Honey: Provides a subtle sweetness to balance the saltiness and adds a glossy finish.
- 0.5 Tbsp Maesil Cheong (Plum Extract) or Rice Vinegar: Adds a hint of sweet and sourness, softening the overall flavor profile.
- A drizzle of Sesame Oil: For a nutty aroma that elevates the dish.
- A sprinkle of Toasted Sesame Seeds: For garnish and an extra nutty crunch.
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the Korean cucumbers (or Kirby cucumbers) thoroughly. Pat them dry and then slice them into bite-sized pieces, about 1cm thick. Slicing them this way ensures the dressing coats them evenly, making them even more delicious.
Step 2
You can leave the seeds inside the cucumbers if you prefer, but if you find them too abundant, gently scrape them out with the back of a knife or a spoon. Removing some seeds can result in a smoother texture. While the cucumber slices are draining, let’s prepare the dressing.
Step 3
In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp doenjang, 0.5 Tbsp gochujang, 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp oligodang, and 0.5 Tbsp maesil cheong. Mix them well to create the dressing. (We will add the sesame oil and sesame seeds at the end.) This crispy cucumber salad tastes best when freshly made, so preparing the dressing beforehand and mixing it with the sliced cucumbers right before serving will help maintain their crispiness.
Step 4
Add about two-thirds of the prepared dressing to the sliced cucumbers and gently mix with your hands. Toss them carefully to ensure the dressing is evenly distributed. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning by adding more dressing if needed, tailoring it to your preference.
Step 5
Finally, drizzle with sesame oil and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a fragrant finish. This crispy cucumber salad, with its delightful crunch and savory doenjang dressing, is an unbeatable side dish for rice. Enjoy your meal!
