Chewy and Crispy Pickled Melon Salad
Summer Side Dish: Refreshing Pickled Melon Salad to Revive Your Appetite
Introducing a recipe for chewy and crispy pickled melon salad, known as a ‘rice thief’ during the summer! This easy-to-make and delicious side dish is perfect for reviving a lost appetite. Measurements are based on standard spoons: 1 Tbsp = 15ml, 1 tsp = 5ml.
Ingredients- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
- About 5 Tbsp corn syrup (or rice syrup, adjust to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Take out all the prepared pickled melons and slice them into bite-sized pieces. Add 5 tablespoons of corn syrup to the sliced pickles and let them marinate for about 20 minutes. You will notice that quite a bit of liquid forms. This step helps to season the pickles and soften them.
Step 2
Firmly squeeze out the excess liquid from the marinated pickled melons with both hands. Removing the moisture ensures the seasoning adheres well and prevents the salad from becoming watery. Place the squeezed pickles in a bowl, then add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of gochugaru, and 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds. The pungent garlic and spicy chili flakes will add a savory depth of flavor.
Step 3
Next, add 1 tablespoon of plum extract for sweetness and aroma. Then, toss in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped green onions. Mix everything together gently by hand until well combined to complete this delicious pickled melon salad. If you are making a large batch for refrigeration, it’s best to omit sesame oil at this stage. You can add a little sesame oil just before serving for a nutty aroma, but personally, I find it delicious even without it.
Step 4
Transfer the finished pickled melon salad to a serving dish, arranging it attractively. Finally, sprinkle a bit more sesame seeds on top for a delightful crunchy texture and nutty flavor. This salad is prepared similarly to pickled cucumbers (ojingi), but I omitted the soju as it’s meant for immediate consumption. Soju is typically used for its preservative properties when storing for longer periods.
Step 5
When your appetite is lacking during the summer, this pickled melon salad served with a bowl of hot rice is incredibly satisfying. While you can buy melons specifically to make pickles, the flavor of melons might not be as good during the rainy monsoon season. In such cases, making pickles with less flavorful melons is a practical way to enjoy them later.
Step 6
This salad is easy to prepare and serve, much like a pickled cucumber salad, and it also makes an excellent lunchbox side dish. Consider making a generous batch when melons are in season and affordable this summer for a wonderful pantry staple. Enjoy your summer meals with this refreshing and tangy pickled melon salad that will surely stimulate your appetite.
