Crispy Korean Chili Pepper Salad with Soybean Paste (No-Cook Summer Side Dish)
Easy Summer Side Dish: Crispy Korean Chili Peppers with Soybean Paste (No Stove Needed)
A refreshing and crunchy side dish featuring crisp Korean chili peppers tossed with a savory soybean paste and sesame oil dressing. Perfect for a light summer meal! This recipe is incredibly simple, requiring no cooking, making it an ideal way to beat the heat while still enjoying delicious, homemade food.
Ingredients- 12 Korean chili peppers (crisp variety, also known as ‘asagochum’)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp soybean paste (doenjang)
- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru) – adjust to taste
- 1/2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong) or other sweetener
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Korean chili peppers. Wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Trim off the stem ends. Then, slice the peppers into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch thick. Aim for a satisfying crunch, so avoid slicing them too thinly.
Step 2
Place the sliced chili peppers into a mixing bowl. Add the minced garlic (1/2 Tbsp).
Step 3
Next, add the soybean paste (doenjang), 1 Tbsp. Use your favorite brand, or a homemade one for a deeper flavor. You might want to adjust the amount slightly depending on the saltiness of your doenjang.
Step 4
Incorporate the red pepper flakes (gochugaru), 1/2 Tbsp. This adds a subtle kick and a beautiful color. Feel free to add more if you enjoy a spicier dish.
Step 5
Add the plum extract (maesilcheong), 1/2 Tbsp. This Korean ingredient provides a touch of sweetness and a nice, subtle fruity note. If you don’t have it, a little honey or corn syrup can be substituted.
Step 6
Finally, drizzle in the sesame oil (1 Tbsp) for its rich, nutty aroma. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the top for garnish. Now, gently mix everything together with your hands, as if you’re massaging the ingredients. Ensure the soybean paste mixture is evenly distributed among the chili peppers. Your delicious and crunchy Korean chili pepper salad is ready to serve! It’s wonderful enjoyed immediately or chilled from the refrigerator.
