Almond Tomato ‘Suk’: A Warm, Cooked Salad Delight
Almond Tomato ‘Suk’: The Tender Charm of a Warm, Cooked Salad
The traditional Korean dish ‘Suk’ (숙) refers to fruits like pears, quince, apricots, peaches, or cherries that are peeled, cut into large pieces or left whole, studded with whole peppercorns, and then simmered in honey water. Dishes are named after the fruit used, such as ‘Baesuk’ (pear suk) or ‘Aengduso’ (cherry suk). This recipe ingeniously adapts the traditional ‘Suk’ concept to fresh tomatoes, creating a dish that is both familiar and wonderfully novel. Experience the soft, sweet flavors, reminiscent of a warm, comforting salad.
Main Ingredients
- 1 ripe tomato
- 2 Tbsp chopped almonds
- Olive oil dressing, to taste
Olive Oil Dressing Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 Tbsp vinegar (adjust to your preference)
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1-2 Tbsp vinegar (adjust to your preference)
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1/2 tsp salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, remove the stem from the ripe tomato. Then, make shallow cross-shaped (X) slits on the side opposite the stem. Blanch the tomato in boiling water for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the skin starts to loosen. Carefully remove it and rinse under cold water. The skin should peel away easily along the slits. This gentle preparation helps to tenderize the tomato, making it even more delicious.
Step 2
For the almonds, coarsely chop them using a food processor or a knife. Aim for a texture that still has some bite, rather than a fine powder. This will add a delightful nutty crunch to the dish.
Step 3
Now, let’s prepare the flavorful olive oil dressing. In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, sweet plum extract, sugar, and salt. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once dissolved, slowly whisk in the extra virgin olive oil until the dressing emulsifies and becomes smooth.
Step 4
Take the blanched and peeled tomato and carefully deepen the cross-shaped slits you made earlier. This will allow the dressing to penetrate the tomato’s flesh, making it more moist and flavorful. Drizzle 1 to 2 tablespoons of the prepared dressing over the tomato. The combination of the tomato’s freshness and the dressing’s tang will awaken your palate.
Step 5
Finally, generously sprinkle the coarsely chopped almonds over the tomato. Follow with another generous drizzle of the olive oil dressing to finish. This dish can be enjoyed warm or cold, offering a unique texture akin to a tender, warm salad. It pairs wonderfully with bread or as a light side dish.
