Refreshing Seaweed Salad (Haechomuchim)
Appetite Booster! Tangy and Spicy Seaweed Cold Salad
When your appetite is low, a refreshing bite of seaweed salad can awaken your senses and lift your spirits. This is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light meal. I’m sharing this easy and delicious recipe because it’s so enjoyable and perfect for those times you need a little culinary pick-me-up.
Main Ingredients- Prepared Seaweed 100g
Tangy & Spicy Dressing- Piquant Mustard 1/2 Tbsp
- Savory Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Zesty Vinegar 1.5 Tbsp
- Umami-rich Fish Sauce 1/2 Tbsp
- Sweetness Adjuster: Sugar 1/2 Tbsp
- Subtle Sweetness: Honey 1 tsp
- Aromatic Minced Garlic 1 tsp
- Nutty Toasted Sesame Seeds 1/2 Tbsp
- Piquant Mustard 1/2 Tbsp
- Savory Soy Sauce 2 Tbsp
- Zesty Vinegar 1.5 Tbsp
- Umami-rich Fish Sauce 1/2 Tbsp
- Sweetness Adjuster: Sugar 1/2 Tbsp
- Subtle Sweetness: Honey 1 tsp
- Aromatic Minced Garlic 1 tsp
- Nutty Toasted Sesame Seeds 1/2 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly rinse the seaweed under running water by shaking it gently multiple times to remove any impurities. Next, lightly blanch the cleaned seaweed in boiling water for just about 10 seconds – be careful not to overcook it, as it can become mushy. Immediately after blanching, rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and then squeeze out any excess water thoroughly. Set the prepared seaweed aside.
Step 2
Now, let’s make the delicious dressing. In a large bowl, combine all the dressing ingredients: mustard, soy sauce, vinegar, fish sauce, sugar, honey, minced garlic, and toasted sesame seeds.
Step 3
Using a spatula or spoon, stir the dressing ingredients well until everything is smoothly combined. It might taste a bit strong at this point, but that’s intentional! The flavor will mellow out when mixed with the seaweed, and seaweed actually needs a slightly more pronounced seasoning to absorb the flavors properly. This balance ensures the final dish is perfectly seasoned.
Step 4
Add the prepared seaweed to the bowl with the dressing.
Step 5
Put on a pair of disposable gloves and gently toss and mix the seaweed with the dressing. Use a gentle squeezing motion (‘jomul-jomul’) to ensure the dressing coats every strand without breaking the seaweed. This careful mixing helps the flavors penetrate evenly.
Step 6
While delicious served immediately, this seaweed salad is even better when chilled. If you have time, plate the finished salad attractively and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. The cool temperature enhances the refreshing flavors, making it an even more delightful dish to stimulate your appetite!
