Preparing Deodeok Tenderly and Making Delicious Seasoned Salad
From How to Prepare Deodeok to a Recipe for Aromatic Deodeok Salad
This guide offers a special method for tenderly preparing deodeok (Korean bellflower root) so it’s not tough, along with detailed instructions on how to easily make a delicious deodeok salad.
Main Ingredients
- 50g Fresh Deodeok (Korean bellflower root)
Seasoning
- Pinch of Salt
- Sesame seeds (Grounded)
- A little Sesame oil
- Pinch of Salt
- Sesame seeds (Grounded)
- A little Sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The first step to cleanly peel the deodeok. Gently twist and pull the skin from one side of the deodeok; it should peel off smoothly, much like peeling tape. Instead of forcing it, try to twist it as you peel for best results.
Step 2
Once peeled, immediately submerge the deodeok in clean water. This prevents the deodeok from being exposed to the air, which can cause discoloration or browning, thus keeping it fresh.
Step 3
Now for the crucial step to make the deodeok tender. Prepare the peeled deodeok. Cut the deodeok in half lengthwise. Then, using a wide, flat spatula or a mallet, gently pound the surface of the deodeok evenly. Be careful not to pound too hard, as this can bruise or crush the deodeok. The key is to use moderate force to soften the fibers.
Step 4
After pounding with the mallet, it’s time to tear the deodeok by hand. Deodeok that has been tenderized by pounding tears much more easily and results in a softer texture compared to slicing with a knife. Tear along the natural grain of the deodeok.
Step 5
If you desire an even more tender texture, try using a vegetable peeler. Spread the peeled deodeok flat, and gently scrape the surface with the peeler. This further breaks down the fibers, creating a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. This method also helps reduce any slight bitterness of the deodeok.
Step 6
Compare the difference between the two preparation methods. The deodeok on the left was pounded and torn, while the one on the right was finished with a peeler. Visually, the deodeok on the right appears finer and more tender. Pounding alone can sometimes lead to a slightly bruised appearance or color change, but scraping with a peeler results in a clean, soft texture without such issues.
Step 7
Now, let’s make a salad with the prepared deodeok. Place the deodeok in a pan and add a very small amount of water. Add a pinch of salt and stir-fry over medium-low heat until the deodeok softens and wilts. Avoid adding too much water, as it will prevent it from frying properly.
Step 8
Once the deodeok is sufficiently stir-fried and tender, turn off the heat and add the final seasonings. Mix in a good amount of nutty sesame seeds and fragrant sesame oil. Gently toss to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. This completes your deodeok salad, boasting a delightful balance of mild bitterness and tender texture. It’s absolutely delicious served with warm rice.
