Refreshing Scallion Salad (Jjokpa Muchim)
Easy and Delicious Korean Scallion Salad Recipe
This refreshing scallion salad, known as Jjokpa Muchim, offers a delightful balance of bright, fresh flavors with a subtle hint of sweetness on the finish, making it incredibly addictive. The addition of Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) brings a pleasant spiciness, while fish sauce (Aekjeot) provides a savory depth, creating a taste that will have you reaching for more. It’s a perfect side dish that complements any meal!
Ingredients
- 260g trimmed scallions
- 2/3 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance)
- 1 tsp soy sauce (for soup/stew)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp crushed toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- A little red chili (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently remove the dried root ends (‘jeonip’) from the bottom of the scallions. This step ensures a cleaner presentation and taste. Trim off any yellow or wilted leaves as well, focusing on using only the fresh, green parts.
Step 2
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat, adding 1/2 Tbsp of salt. Carefully add the scallion stems to the boiling water for about 10 seconds, then add the leafy parts and blanch everything for a total of just 30 seconds. Be quick – overcooking will make them limp!
Step 3
Immediately transfer the blanched scallions to a bowl of ice-cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their crispness. Rinse them a few times. Gently squeeze out excess water by hand; avoid pressing too hard, as this can break the scallions.
Step 4
Place the lightly squeezed scallions in a mixing bowl. Add the fish sauce and soy sauce, and gently toss to coat. This initial seasoning helps to flavor the scallions without crushing them.
Step 5
Now, add the gochugaru, minced garlic, sesame oil, crushed sesame seeds, and thinly sliced red chili (if using). Gently mix everything together with your hands (like ‘joom-joom’), ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the scallions. This ‘joom-joom’ motion helps to lightly massage the flavors into the vegetables.
Step 6
Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding a little more fish sauce for saltiness. For a touch of sweetness, you can also add a bit of plum syrup (maesilcheong) according to your preference. Serve immediately and enjoy this delightful, flavorful side dish!
