Crisp and Clean White Soybean Sprout Salad (Kongnamul Muchim)
Easy and Delicious Kongnamul Muchim Recipe: Tips for a Perfect Side Dish!
Make a simple and tasty side dish for your rice! This Kongnamul Muchim (seasoned soybean sprouts) is incredibly easy to make and bursts with fresh flavor and a satisfying crunch. Learn the secret to avoiding any ‘beany’ taste and achieving perfectly seasoned sprouts.
Ingredients- 1 handful of soybean sprouts (approx. 150-200g)
- 1 Tbsp minced green onion or scallions
- 1/3 Tbsp seasoned salt (or a dash of soup soy sauce)
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (toasted and lightly crushed for extra flavor)
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare your soybean sprouts. A good handful, about the size you can grasp with one hand or what fits in a small rice bowl, is typically enough for one serving (approximately 150-200g).
Step 2
Fill a pot with plenty of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the thoroughly washed soybean sprouts. **Important Tip:** Always cook soybean sprouts with the lid OFF! This prevents any unpleasant ‘beany’ smell and ensures they remain crisp.
Step 3
Cook on high heat for only 3-4 minutes, keeping the lid off. This short cooking time is key to maintaining their crisp texture without the sprouts becoming mushy. Immediately drain the sprouts into a colander and rinse them under cold running water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Gently press out as much excess water as possible with your hands or let them drain in the colander for at least 30 seconds.
Step 4
Transfer the drained soybean sprouts to a large, wide bowl. Using a wide bowl helps to mix the seasoning evenly without crushing the delicate sprouts.
Step 5
Add 1 tablespoon of minced green onion or scallions. Scallions will add a more fragrant aroma.
Step 6
Add the seasoning: 1/3 tablespoon of seasoned salt (or a tiny splash of soup soy sauce for a deeper savory note), 1 tablespoon of crushed sesame seeds for a nutty flavor, and 1/2 tablespoon of sesame oil for its characteristic aroma.
Step 7
Put on a pair of disposable gloves and gently toss and mix the soybean sprouts with the seasonings. Be careful not to mash them; mix just enough to ensure all the sprouts are evenly coated.
Step 8
Once well-mixed, transfer the seasoned soybean sprouts to a serving dish or container. Your delicious Kongnamul Muchim is now ready to be enjoyed as a perfect side dish with your meal!
