Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad

A Taste of Korea: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Spicy Cucumber Salad, also known as Oi Muchim, is a popular Korean side dish that's perfect for the summer. This refreshing salad features a delightful combination of fresh cucumbers, onions, garlic chives, and a spicy, tangy dressing. In just a few simple steps, you'll have a flavorful, zesty side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. So let's get cooking!

Ingredients

For the vegetables

• 1 cucumber (approximately 300 grams)
• 1 yellow onion (approximately 200 grams), soaked in cold water for 5 minutes
• 1 bunch green onions (approximately 100 grams), chopped

For the Sauce

• 1.5 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 1 tbsp of sugar
• 1.5 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds
• 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1/4 tsp salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Soak the copped onions in cold water.
2. Cut the cucumber into quarter-inch thick slices.
3. Chop the green onions into small pieces.
4. In a bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cucumber, onion, and green onions.
6. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and gently toss until well coated.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, if necessary.
8. Let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad pairs perfectly with grilled meats like Korean BBQ, or as a refreshing side dish for rice dishes and noodle bowls. Its tangy, spicy flavor also complements fish and tofu dishes.

Ingredient Substitutes

If you can't find gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), you can substitute it with regular red pepper flakes or a mix of paprika and cayenne pepper for a similar spicy kick.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This recipe serves 4, with approximately 150 grams per serving.

• Calories: 80
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 150mg

Tips and Tricks

• For a less spicy salad, reduce the amount of gochugaru or use a milder chili pepper.
• Add a pinch of umami flavor with a dash of fish sauce or soy sauce.
• Soaking the onions in cold water helps reduce their pungency and adds a mild, sweet taste.

FAQ

How long does this Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad last in the fridge? This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but it can last up to 2 days in the refrigerator. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes! In fact, letting the salad sit for a few hours in the fridge allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Is this salad gluten-free? This recipe is gluten-free as written, but always double-check the ingredients to ensure they don't contain hidden gluten.

How do I adjust the spiciness of the salad? You can control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of gochugaru or substituting it with a milder chili pepper.