In the realm of vibrant Korean cuisine, the Korean cucumber salad stands out as a refreshing and flavorsome dish that captivates both the palate and the senses. Bursting with crispness, tanginess, and a subtle hint of spice, this salad offers a delightful culinary experience that is both satisfying and invigorating.
What Makes Korean Cucumber Salad Special?
Korean cucumber salad stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a standout dish in Korean cuisine. Unlike traditional salads, Korean cucumber salad offers a delightful combination of crispness, tanginess, and a hint of spice, creating a refreshing and invigorating taste sensation. What sets this salad apart is its use of traditional Korean ingredients like soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes, which infuse the dish with distinct Korean flavors. Additionally, the thin slices of Korean cucumbers provide a satisfying crunch, while the sesame seeds and green onions add a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Overall, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that makes Korean cucumber salad a truly special dish that delights the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Korean Name of the Recipe
The Korean name for this recipe is “오이무침” (Oi Muchim).
Feel free to use this traditional Korean name to add authenticity and cultural richness to your culinary experience!
Recipe Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients for 2 Servings
- 2 small Korean cucumbers
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
Step-by-Step Tutorial
Preparation
- Wash the Korean cucumbers thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Cut off the ends of the cucumbers and discard them.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer.
- Place the cucumber slices in a mixing bowl.
Dressing
- In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Whisk the ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is well combined.
- Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Assembly
- Pour the dressing over the sliced cucumbers in the mixing bowl.
- Toss the cucumbers gently to coat them evenly with the dressing.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the salad.
- Optionally, sprinkle gochugaru for an extra kick of heat.
Serving
- Transfer the Korean cucumber salad to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
- Serve immediately as a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 1/2 of the recipe
- Calories: 55
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.3g
- Sodium: 415mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 2g
Benefits of Korean Cucumber Salad
- Low in Calories: With only 55 calories per serving, Korean cucumber salad is an excellent choice for those seeking a light and healthy dish.
- High in Fiber: The cucumbers in this salad are rich in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins K and C, as well as potassium, contributing to overall health and well-being.
- Hydration: With its high water content, this salad helps keep the body hydrated, especially during hot weather or after physical activity.
- Flavorful and Refreshing: The combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil creates a harmonious balance of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds and refreshes the palate.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3jUZx_OO3rY Korean cucumber salad is not only a delicious addition to any meal but also a nutritious and refreshing dish that offers a multitude of health benefits. With its simple preparation and delightful flavors, it is sure to become a favorite among both novice cooks and seasoned food enthusiasts alike. Enjoy this culinary delight and reap the rewards of its nutritional goodness!