Crisp and Refreshing Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad: A Simple and Flavorful Recipe
A beloved Korean side dish, Oi Muchim! This recipe uses fresh, crisp cucumbers to create a refreshing salad with a delightful texture. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy for anyone to prepare and is perfect as a side for rice or even as a light snack. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch!
Main Ingredients- 1 Korean cucumber (choiseong-oi) (select firm, fresh ones)
- 1/2 onion (adds sweetness and depth of flavor)
- 2 Korean chili peppers (adjust quantity based on your spice preference)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 tsp soy sauce (either regular or light soy sauce works)
- 2 pinches of salt (for seasoning and to help draw out moisture from the cucumber)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (adds a pungent and aromatic note)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for color and heat)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for a nutty aroma)
- A little bit of white sugar or raw sugar (to balance the sweet and sour notes)
- 2 tsp soy sauce (either regular or light soy sauce works)
- 2 pinches of salt (for seasoning and to help draw out moisture from the cucumber)
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic (adds a pungent and aromatic note)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for color and heat)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil (for a nutty aroma)
- A little bit of white sugar or raw sugar (to balance the sweet and sour notes)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the Korean cucumbers thoroughly. Use a peeler to thinly peel the skin. Slice the cucumbers into bite-sized pieces, either thinly on a bias or into half-moons. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl.
Step 2
Thinly slice the onion and finely chop the Korean chili peppers. (You can remove the seeds from the chili peppers to reduce spiciness.) Add the sliced onion and chopped chili peppers to the bowl with the cucumbers. Now, add all the seasoning ingredients: soy sauce, salt, minced garlic, gochugaru, sesame oil, and sugar.
Step 3
Gently mix everything together with your hands, like a gentle massage. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers; the key is to mix them lightly. Ensure all the seasonings are evenly distributed. Transfer the vibrant, refreshing cucumber salad to a serving dish. It’s delicious served immediately or chilled in the refrigerator for an extra cool treat!
