Spicy & Sweet Lettuce Salad (Sangchu Geotjeori): Flavorful & Refreshing
A Delicious Lettuce Salad Recipe Made with a Versatile, Umami-Rich Dressing
Today, I’m sharing a recipe for Sangchu Geotjeori (spicy lettuce salad), which is incredibly delicious when paired with grilled meats. This recipe uses a special all-purpose dressing to enhance the umami flavor, making it a perfect side dish.
Ingredients- 1 bunch lettuce (approx. 200g)
- 2 Tbsp coarse red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1.5 Tbsp white sugar
- 4 Tbsp soy sauce (jin-ganjang)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 0.5 Tbsp vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Gently rinse the fresh lettuce under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. If the leaves are large, tear or cut them into bite-sized pieces. It’s crucial to drain the water thoroughly. Placing the lettuce in a colander to drain or patting it dry with paper towels will prevent the salad from becoming watery and help the dressing adhere better.
Step 2
Place the prepared lettuce into a large mixing bowl. Add the dressing ingredients: 2 Tbsp coarse red pepper flakes, 1.5 Tbsp white sugar, 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic, 4 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. (Tip: For an enhanced aroma, lightly crush the sesame seeds between your fingers before adding them.)
Step 3
Now, gently toss the lettuce with the dressing using your hands. Be careful not to overmix or mash the lettuce; instead, lightly lift and fold the leaves to coat them evenly with the seasoning. Mix until the lettuce is slightly wilted and the dressing is well combined.
Step 4
Finally, add 0.5 Tbsp of vinegar for a touch of tanginess and mix gently once more. Adjust the amount of vinegar to your preference, as too much can make it overly sour. The addition of vinegar enhances the overall flavor profile, making it deliciously sweet, sour, and spicy.
Step 5
Your delicious Sangchu Geotjeori is now ready! It’s perfect to enjoy with freshly steamed rice or as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats like pork belly (samgyeopsal) or marinated pork ribs (dweji galbi). The delightful crunch of the lettuce combined with the savory, sweet, and spicy dressing is sure to awaken your appetite!
