Fresh Oysters and Radish Salad (Gul Saengchae Muchim)
A Seasonal Delight: Non-Sour Oyster Salad (Gul Saengchae Muchim)
Oysters aren’t always my favorite, but as a seasonal ingredient, I feel a sense of duty to enjoy them at least once a year. I bought 2kg to try various recipes! First up is this raw oyster and radish salad, perfect for mixing with rice. While some might prefer it sweet and sour, I enjoy it just as it is! This method is exactly how my mom used to make it. I couldn’t eat oysters as a child, but as I’ve gotten older, I find myself appreciating my mom’s cooking. This spicy oyster salad is so delicious mixed with rice, you’ll finish a bowl in no time. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant oyster salad! Have a happy afternoon!
Ingredients for Oyster Salad
- 3 cups fresh oysters
- 1/2 Korean radish (or 3 handfuls of salted radish)
- 2 Tbsp coarse sea salt (for salting radish)
Seasoning for Oyster Salad
- 6 Tbsp red chili flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 Tbsp anchovy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/3 tsp MSG or similar seasoning (optional, to taste)
- A little chopped green onion
- A little toasted sesame seeds
- 6 Tbsp red chili flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 Tbsp anchovy sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/3 tsp MSG or similar seasoning (optional, to taste)
- A little chopped green onion
- A little toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
In a blender, process the radish until smooth to create radish juice. This juice helps to eliminate any fishy smell from the oysters and allows the seasoning to adhere better.
Step 2
Add the cleaned oysters to the blended radish juice and mix gently. Be careful not to crush the oysters.
Step 3
Lightly rinse the oysters under running water to remove any debris. Drain them thoroughly in a colander, ensuring all excess water is removed. Maintaining the freshness of the oysters is key.
Step 4
Thinly slice the radish into matchsticks. In a bowl, toss the radish with 2 tablespoons of coarse sea salt and massage gently for about 10-15 minutes. This process draws out moisture, ensuring a crisp texture.
Step 5
Rinse the salted radish under cold water 2-3 times to remove excess salt. Squeeze out as much water as possible by hand. Excess moisture can make the salad watery.
Step 6
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed radish, prepared oysters, and all the seasoning ingredients (red chili flakes, anchovy sauce, minced garlic, optional seasoning, chopped green onion, and sesame seeds). Gently toss and mix everything together until well coated. Mix carefully to avoid breaking the oysters.
Step 7
Transfer the freshly mixed oyster and radish salad to a serving dish. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing oyster salad!