Refreshing Lettuce Salad (Gujeol-i)
A Mild and Refreshing Lettuce Salad Without Chili Powder
This crisp lettuce salad is a delightful accompaniment to any meat dish. While typically made with chili powder for a spicy kick, this version offers a refreshing twist with a sweet and tangy dressing, making it more like a light salad. It pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes like Jeyuk Bokkeum (spicy stir-fried pork) or can serve as a light meal or a vibrant salad alternative. Enjoy the crisp texture of fresh lettuce balanced with a zesty, delightful dressing that awakens your palate!
Main Ingredients- 3 heads of fresh lettuce (like romaine or butter lettuce)
- 1/6 medium carrot
- 1/4 small onion
Sweet & Tangy Dressing- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/3 tsp seasoned salt (mat-sogeum)
- Pinch of salt, to taste
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1/3 tsp seasoned salt (mat-sogeum)
- Pinch of salt, to taste
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by trimming the tough bottom ends of the lettuce heads. Gently rinse the lettuce leaves under cool running water 3-4 times to ensure they are thoroughly clean. Lightly shake off excess water.
Step 2
Tear or cut the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them into manageable sizes will make them easier to eat and ensure the dressing coats them evenly. You can also leave them larger for a more substantial wrap.
Step 3
Peel the onion and slice it thinly, then cut into fine julienne strips. Wash and peel the carrot, then julienne it into thin strips, similar in thickness to the onion.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: plum extract, vinegar, minced garlic, seasoned salt, a pinch of regular salt, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds. Whisk everything together until well combined, creating a harmonious sweet and tangy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 5
Add the prepared lettuce, julienned carrots, and julienned onions to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together with your hands or tongs until the vegetables are lightly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to overmix or bruise the lettuce.
Step 6
Transfer the freshly tossed lettuce salad to a serving plate. Garnish with extra sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy its refreshing flavor alongside your favorite main dishes!
