Crispy Apple Kimchi-style Salad (Sagwa Geotjeori)
A Refreshing Apple Salad Recipe to Brighten Your Meal
Discover the delightful versatility of apples with this simple yet incredibly flavorful Apple Geotjeori (Korean-style fresh salad). Using the freshest, in-season apples, this dish offers a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making it an excellent side dish that pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled meats, or savory pancakes. It’s quick to prepare and a fantastic way to enjoy the crispness of apples.
Ingredients- 1 medium apple
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance)
- 1/2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for extra brightness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing your apple. Wash it thoroughly under running water, as you’ll be using the peel. Gently scrub to remove any impurities. Trim away any bruised or soft spots.
Step 2
Core the washed apple, then slice it thinly into matchsticks (julienne) while keeping the peel on. Aim for a thickness of about 0.3 cm for even seasoning and a pleasant texture. Think of slicing it similarly to how you would for kimchi.
Step 3
Immediately place the julienned apples into a mixing bowl. It’s best to season them right away to prevent the apples from releasing too much juice, which can affect their crispness.
Step 4
To the bowl with the apple matchsticks, add the gochugaru, fish sauce, plum extract, and optional lemon juice. Gently toss everything together with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can bruise the apples and make them mushy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed – add a little more fish sauce for saltiness or a tiny bit of sugar or honey for sweetness.
