Spicy Gochujang and Garlic Scape Salad (Muchim)
Crispy and Delicious Gochujang Garlic Scape Salad – Learn the Secret to Perfect Texture!
Introducing a recipe for a crispy and flavorful Gochujang Garlic Scape Salad, made with fresh garlic scapes, a spring delicacy. This dish is easy to make with simple seasonings and is perfect as a side dish for rice.
Main Ingredients- 200g fresh garlic scapes (choose ones with a deep green color and a firm, unblemished appearance)
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- A little sesame oil
- A little sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Selecting good garlic scapes is key! Choose garlic scapes that are a deep green color, fresh, and firm. Avoid any that look yellowish or wilted.
Step 2
Trim about 2-3 cm from the top, bulbous part of the garlic scapes and also from the tough ends. These parts can be fibrous. Cut the remaining tender parts into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm long.
Step 3
Rinse the prepared garlic scapes 2-3 times under cold running water and let them drain. Place them in a colander to drain for a bit while you prepare to blanch them in salted water.
Step 4
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the trimmed garlic scapes and blanch for exactly 30 seconds. Blanching briefly removes any bitterness and ensures a wonderfully crisp texture.
Step 5
Immediately transfer the blanched garlic scapes to a bowl of ice water to quickly cool them down. If you don’t have ice water, rinsing them 2-3 times in very cold water will also work. This step is crucial for maintaining their crispness and preserving their vibrant green color.
Step 6
Drain the cooled garlic scapes thoroughly in a colander and prepare to make the delicious seasoning sauce.
Step 7
In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of gochujang, 3 tablespoons of gochugaru, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of plum extract, and 2 tablespoons of corn syrup. Mix all the ingredients well until you have a smooth, uniform seasoning paste.
Step 8
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the prepared seasoning sauce and gently cook it for a minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 9
Once the sauce begins to bubble, add 3 tablespoons of water and let it simmer briefly. Adding water helps to mellow the saltiness and create a smoother sauce consistency.
Step 10
Add the drained blanched garlic scapes to the cooked sauce and toss gently to coat evenly. Finish with a drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Your delicious, spicy, sweet, and crispy Gochujang Garlic Scape Salad is ready! The harmonious blend of the gochujang’s spiciness, soy sauce’s umami, and the subtle sweetness from plum extract and corn syrup makes this a perfect side dish that will have you finishing your rice in no time. Enjoy this healthy and tasty ingredient, garlic scapes!
