Korean Cucumber Salad Maangchi

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Discover the delightful world of Korean cuisine with Maangchi’s Korean Cucumber Salad! This refreshing dish is a symphony of crisp cucumbers, vibrant vegetables, and a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.

It’s a quick, easy, and healthy side dish that complements any Korean meal. Maangchi’s recipe adds a unique twist to this classic, making it a must-try for food enthusiasts.

Dive into the crispness of Korean cucumbers and the rich cultural heritage of Korean cooking. Explore the full recipe and savor the taste of Korea’s iconic salad with a Maangchi twist!

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Ingredients

2 English cucumbers
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon roasted sesame seeds
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
2 teaspoons sesame oil
1 tablespoon chopped scallions

Instructions

Wash the cucumbers and pat them dry. Slice them thinly, and place them in a bowl.
Sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and mix well. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
After 10 minutes, squeeze the cucumbers to remove excess water.
In a separate bowl, mix vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, roasted sesame seeds, minced garlic, Korean chili flakes, sesame oil, and chopped scallions.
Add the cucumber slices to the sauce and mix well.
Serve the Korean cucumber salad chilled.

Cooking Tips

Use English cucumbers for this recipe as they have fewer seeds and thinner skin.
Do not skip the step of letting the cucumbers sit with salt. This step helps to remove excess water and ensures that the salad is not watery.
Adjust the number of Korean chili flakes according to your preference for spice.

What to Serve with Cucumber Salad

Bibimbap: Pair your Korean Cucumber Salad with this iconic Korean rice dish, topped with an array of sautéed vegetables, marinated meat, and a fried egg. The salad’s freshness balances the rich flavors of bibimbap.
Kimchi Pancakes: Enjoy the contrasting textures by serving your cucumber salad alongside crispy and savory kimchi pancakes (Kimchijeon). The salad’s coolness complements the heat of the pancakes.
Korean BBQ: The cool, crunchy salad acts as a refreshing counterpoint to the bold and savory flavors of grilled meats like bulgogi or galbi. Wrap the meat in lettuce leaves for a delightful combination.
Tofu Stir-Fry: Balance the spiciness of a tofu stir-fry with the soothing cucumber salad. The salad’s sweet and tangy dressing complements the stir-fry’s sauce.
Japchae: Combine the salad with this sweet potato noodle dish for a refreshing side that complements the earthy flavors and textures of Japchae.
Kimbap: Serve your Korean Cucumber Salad alongside these delicious seaweed rice rolls filled with various ingredients. The salad adds a crispy and refreshing element to the meal, making it a perfect combination.

Health benefits Cucumber Salad

Hydration: Cucumbers have a high water content, helping to keep you hydrated. This salad is an excellent choice on hot days to prevent dehydration.
Low in Calories: Cucumber Salad is typically low in calories, making it a healthy and guilt-free option for weight management and calorie-conscious diets.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins like K and C, as well as minerals such as potassium. These nutrients contribute to overall health and well-being.
Antioxidant Properties: The salad often includes ingredients like garlic and sesame seeds, which provide antioxidants. Antioxidants help protect the body from free radicals and support overall health.

Conclusion

Korean cucumber salad, also known as “Oi Muchim,” is a refreshing and healthy side dish that is easy to make. This dish is perfect for summer days and pairs well with Korean BBQ or any other Korean main dish. Follow the steps of this recipe and enjoy the taste of Korea in the comfort of your home.

FAQs

Can I use regular cucumbers instead of English cucumbers?

Yes, you can use regular cucumbers, but you will need to remove the seeds and peel the skin.

Can I use a different type of vinegar instead of rice vinegar?

Yes, you can use any type of vinegar, but rice vinegar is commonly used in Korean cuisine.

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