Crispy Cucumber Pepper Mbaechim with Doenjang (Soybean Paste)
Super Easy Doenjang Seasoned Cucumber Peppers
Did you know you can still find great buys for just 1,000 won at traditional markets these days? That’s why I love them! I picked up a bag of delicious, crisp cucumber peppers, which were selling for 1,000 won. I immediately brought them home and made them into a Doenjang (soybean paste) salad. It’s truly a ‘1,000 Won Delight’ side dish! The refreshing crunch of the peppers combined with the savory soybean paste will surely whet your appetite.
Ingredients- 13 cucumber peppers
- 1.5 Tbsp low-sodium Doenjang (soybean paste)
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/3 Tbsp ginger syrup (saenggangcheong)
- 1/3 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/3 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the fresh cucumber peppers thoroughly under running water. After washing, make sure to completely pat them dry with paper towels or a clean cloth. This step is crucial to prevent the salad from becoming watery and ensures the seasoning adheres well.
Step 2
Trim off the stems from the dried cucumber peppers. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 2 cm (approximately 0.8 inches) in length. Cutting them into slightly thicker pieces will help maintain their satisfying crunch.
Step 3
In a small bowl, combine the low-sodium Doenjang (1.5 Tbsp), sweet plum extract (1 Tbsp), and fragrant ginger syrup (1/3 Tbsp). Mix these ingredients well with a spoon to create a delicious seasoning paste. If you don’t have ginger syrup, you can substitute a small amount of minced fresh ginger, but ginger syrup will offer a richer flavor.
Step 4
Add the sliced cucumber peppers to the prepared seasoning paste. Gently toss them with a spoon, ensuring each piece is evenly coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as this could mash the peppers. Finally, sprinkle in the nutty sesame seeds (1/3 Tbsp) and aromatic sesame oil (1/3 Tbsp), and give it a light stir. Your super simple Doenjang seasoned cucumber peppers are now ready! They are delicious served immediately, or you can chill them in the refrigerator for an even more refreshing taste.
