Crispy Cucumber with Soybean Paste Salad
Enjoy the Refreshing Crunch! Simple Cucumber Salad with Soybean Paste
Make this incredibly easy and quick cucumber salad with soybean paste, perfect for those who prefer a mild flavor and love a satisfying crunch. It’s a delightful side dish that’s both healthy and quick to prepare.
Main Ingredients- 10 Korean cucumbers (Oigochu) or other crisp cucumbers
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tsp Minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup) or honey
- 1 Tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp Sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tsp Minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup) or honey
- 1 Tbsp Toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp Sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing your fresh Korean cucumbers (Oigochu). Wash them thoroughly under running water. For extra cleanliness, soak them in water with a splash of vinegar for about 10 minutes. After soaking, drain them well and trim off the stems.
Step 2
Cut the prepared cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, about 1.5 to 2 cm thick. Avoid slicing them too thinly, as this can diminish their satisfying crunch.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the delicious seasoning! In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of Doenjang, 1/2 tablespoon of Gochujang, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of Oligodang (or honey), 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Mix everything together until well combined. (Tip: Using a small amount of Gochujang enhances the umami flavor without making it too spicy, complementing the nutty Doenjang perfectly.)
Step 4
Place the sliced cucumbers in a larger bowl. Pour the prepared seasoning over the cucumbers. Gently toss and mix everything together, ensuring the seasoning coats the cucumber pieces evenly. Be gentle to avoid bruising the cucumbers and releasing too much water.
Step 5
And there you have it – a wonderfully mild and incredibly crunchy Korean cucumber salad with soybean paste! Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish that will surely liven up your meal.
