Microwave Steamed Eggplant Salad (Gaji Namul)
No-Cook Side Dish: Easy Microwave Eggplant Salad Recipe
With the weather heating up, cooking over a hot stove is truly commendable! Today, we’re making a delicious side dish for rice called ‘Gaji Namul’ (steamed eggplant salad) using just the microwave, without any stove time. This recipe is incredibly easy, taking less than 10 minutes to prepare, and requires minimal ingredients, making it a perfect simple side dish. Try making it yourself!
Main Ingredients- 1 large eggplant
- 3 Tbsp chopped green onion
Eggplant Salad Seasoning- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/3 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/3 Tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare one large eggplant. Wash it thoroughly under running water, remove the stem, and cut it into about 3 equal pieces. To ensure even cooking, slice each piece in half lengthwise. Place the halved eggplant pieces in a microwave-safe container, add a small amount of water, cover tightly, and microwave for about 4 minutes until tender. (Adjust cooking time based on eggplant size and microwave power.)
Step 2
While the eggplant is cooking, let’s prepare the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine 1 tsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp soy sauce, and 1/3 Tbsp sugar (you can add a little more if you prefer it sweeter). Add 1 Tbsp gochugaru and the 3 Tbsp of chopped green onion. Mix well to combine the ingredients, creating your seasoning paste.
Step 3
The eggplant will be very hot after microwaving, so handle with care. Let it cool slightly to release some steam. Once cooled enough to handle, gently shred the eggplant lengthwise into bite-sized pieces by hand. Shredding by hand rather than cutting with utensils will result in a softer texture.
Step 4
Add all the shredded eggplant to the prepared seasoning. Drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and flavor, and finally, sprinkle a generous pinch of sesame seeds on top. (Adjust the amount of sesame seeds to your preference.)
Step 5
Now, gently mix the eggplant with the seasoning until well combined. This is the final step to creating a delicious Gaji Namul! Since eggplant is very tender, avoid pressing down too hard, as it can get mushy. The key is to toss it gently with light hands to maintain its soft texture. Enjoy your wonderfully seasoned eggplant salad!
