Super Simple Leek Muchim (Korean Salad)
Recreating Lee Kuk-ju’s Famous Leek Salad: An Easy and Flavorful Side Dish
We’re making the leek salad that famously turned Jeon Hyun-moo into a ‘leek enthusiast’ on the MBC show ‘The Manager’! This dish is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal seasonings but delivers a wonderfully fresh and vibrant taste. While the original recipe calls for chili powder, salt, sesame oil, and sesame seeds, I’ve opted for fish sauce instead of salt to add a deeper umami flavor. All you need are a bunch of fresh leeks, a small onion, and a few pantry staples. The combination of crisp leeks, sweet onion, and the zesty dressing is truly addictive, making it a perfect accompaniment to meals like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) or even just a simple bowl of rice. If you love leeks or need a quick and delicious side dish, this recipe is for you. Let’s get started on this super simple leek and onion salad!
Main Ingredients- 1 bunch fresh leeks
- 1 small onion
Seasoning (Tablespoon Measurement)- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, to taste
- 1 Tbsp anchovy sauce (fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Sesame seeds, to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the leeks. Discard any wilted or damaged leaves. Gently clean the roots by soaking them in water and shaking them to remove any dirt or debris. Hold the leek stalks and gently shake them 2-3 times under running water for a thorough wash.
Step 2
Trim the thicker, dirtier ends of the leek stalks. Remove only the parts that are tough or unsightly. Cut the leeks into manageable pieces, about 4-5 cm (1.5-2 inches) in length.
Step 3
Peel the small onion and slice it thinly into julienne strips. Slicing it thinly ensures it complements the texture of the leeks without overpowering them.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared leeks and the thinly sliced onion. It’s time to add the delicious seasonings!
Step 5
Add the gochugaru, anchovy sauce for that savory depth, fragrant sesame oil, and finally, a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added aroma and flavor.
Step 6
Gently toss the leeks and onion with the seasonings until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix or use too much force, as this can make the leeks mushy. The key is to gently fold them together to maintain their crispness. Your delicious leek salad is ready!
