Crispy Napa Cabbage & Chewy Acorn Jelly Salad: The Perfect Pair!
How to Make Acorn Jelly Salad with Napa Cabbage: The Ultimate Recipe
This year’s cabbage harvest has been exceptional! The weather was a bit hot during the crucial growth period, delaying their size, but the heads are incredibly dense and sweet. After making kimchi, I still have a generous amount left. I selected the firmest heads for kimchi, leaving the less dense ones in the garden for now. These will be a staple on our dinner table this winter. I’ve made a delightful acorn jelly salad featuring this crisp and sweet napa cabbage, with the cabbage taking center stage. This dish highlights the refreshing crunch of the cabbage alongside the satisfying texture of acorn jelly.
Ingredients- 10 inner leaves of napa cabbage (palm-sized)
- 1/2 block acorn jelly
- 1.5 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, fine)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (or corn syrup)
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the napa cabbage leaves thoroughly and gently pat them dry. Select about 10 inner leaves, which are typically tender and sweet, for the best flavor and texture.
Step 2
Cut the washed napa cabbage leaves in half lengthwise. Then, slice them diagonally into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm wide. This cutting method helps the seasoning penetrate evenly and enhances the crunch.
Step 3
Prepare half a block of chewy acorn jelly, ideally purchased fresh from a market. Cut the acorn jelly into bite-sized pieces, similar in size to the cabbage. Be careful not to cut them too thinly, as they might break apart.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine the sliced napa cabbage and the cut acorn jelly. Now, let’s prepare the dressing: add 1.5 Tbsp of fine gochugaru, 1 Tbsp of minced garlic, 3 Tbsp of soy sauce, 2 Tbsp of sweet plum extract (or corn syrup), and 1.5 Tbsp of fragrant sesame oil.
Step 5
Gently mix all the ingredients together, taking care not to crush the acorn jelly. Use a spatula or your hands to toss everything lightly, ensuring the seasoning coats all the pieces evenly. The key is to mix without breaking the delicate jelly.
Step 6
Once you taste this wonderfully mixed acorn jelly salad, you won’t be able to stop! The refreshing crunch of the cabbage, the chewy texture of the acorn jelly, and the savory seasoning create an addictive side dish. It’s delicious served immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for an even more delightful experience.
