Spicy Cucumber Salad with Soybean Paste
Easy and Delicious Korean Cucumber Side Dish with Doenjang
Korean spicy cucumbers, also known as ‘achigochu’, are packed with moisture and have a refreshing taste similar to regular cucumbers, making them enjoyable even for those who don’t like spicy food. While delicious simply dipped in ssamjang, transforming them into a flavorful doenjang-seasoned salad creates a side dish with an irresistible savory taste and delightful crunch that will have you reaching for more. It’s a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients- 5 Korean spicy cucumbers (achigochu)
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1/3 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the spicy cucumbers thoroughly under running water and pat them dry. Trim off the stem and blossom ends, then slice them into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm long. This size ensures the dressing coats them evenly and makes them easy to eat.
Step 2
Now, let’s prepare the delicious seasoning that will make this cucumber salad truly shine. The key to enjoying this dish is a perfectly balanced dressing, so let’s make it with care!
Step 3
Add 1 tablespoon of plum extract for a wonderful depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness. Then, mix in 1/3 tablespoon of gochujang to add a gentle kick of spice. The combination of plum extract and gochujang creates a harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and slightly spicy notes.
Step 4
Place the sliced spicy cucumbers into a bowl. Add all of the prepared doenjang dressing over the cucumbers. Gently toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the seasoning. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cucumbers mushy. A gentle hand ensures a delightful crunch.
Step 5
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can add finely chopped nuts such as walnuts or pine nuts. The nutty crunch complements the cucumbers beautifully and adds a rich, savory dimension to the dish. If the seasoning tastes too salty, this is also a good time to adjust it slightly.
Step 6
Transfer the beautifully prepared spicy cucumber salad to a serving dish. Unlike simply dipping raw cucumbers, this salad offers a wonderfully tender yet crisp texture, bursting with a sweet and savory flavor that is incredibly addictive and pairs perfectly with rice. Enjoy this delightful side dish that the whole family will love!
