Spicy and Sweet Jigo-chu Muchim (Seasoned Peppers)
A Delectable Korean Side Dish: Jigo-chu Muchim
Finely chopped jigo-chu peppers, seasoned and tossed, make a wonderfully delicious topping for rice, perfect for bibimbap. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers a burst of flavor.
Main Ingredients- 30 Jigo-chu peppers
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by gently rinsing the fresh jigo-chu peppers under running water 1-2 times. This helps to remove any dirt and ensures they are clean and fresh.
Step 2
After rinsing, carefully remove the stems from the jigo-chu peppers. Removing the stems will improve the texture and overall eating experience.
Step 3
Once the stems are removed, finely chop the jigo-chu peppers. Aim for pieces about 0.5 cm in size, as this will help the seasoning penetrate better and enhance the flavor.
Step 4
Transfer all the chopped jigo-chu peppers into a mixing bowl. Using a wide and deep bowl will make tossing the ingredients with the seasoning much easier.
Step 5
Now it’s time to add the seasoning. Measure out 1 heaped tablespoon of gochugaru (for a vibrant color and mild heat), 1 heaped tablespoon of gochujang (for a deeper, savory spice), 3 generously filled tablespoons of honey (for sweetness), 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 3 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds. Add these to the bowl with the peppers.
Step 6
Using your hands or a spatula, thoroughly mix all the seasoning ingredients with the chopped peppers. Ensure that every piece of jigo-chu is evenly coated with the seasoning for a consistent flavor throughout.
Step 7
Taste a small amount of the seasoned peppers and adjust the seasoning to your preference. If you prefer it sweeter, add a bit more honey. If you want it spicier, you can add a little more gochugaru or gochujang.
Step 8
Finally, add a drizzle of sesame oil. This will add a wonderful nutty aroma and rich flavor to the dish, elevating the taste profile.
Step 9
Gently toss everything together after adding the sesame oil until just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage to preserve the fresh flavors.
Step 10
Your delicious Jigo-chu Muchim is now complete! It can be enjoyed immediately, but for an even richer flavor, chilling it in the refrigerator for a short while allows the seasonings to meld beautifully. This dish is perfect as a side for rice or as a flavorful component in bibimbap.
