Crispy and Refreshing Ojijim (Korean Pickled Cucumber Salad)
The Ultimate Ojijim Recipe to Boost Your Appetite
When your appetite wanes, especially during the summer, try making this refreshing and crispy Ojijim. It’s a simple yet incredibly appetizing Korean pickled cucumber salad that’s a guaranteed rice-lover’s dream!
Main Ingredients- 3 Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- Sesame seeds, to taste
- 2 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- Sesame seeds, to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash the Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji) under running water. These Oiji are not excessively salty, so we will mix them right away without soaking them in water. If you are using Oiji with a strong salty taste, soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to adjust the saltiness.
Step 2
Slice the Oiji into bite-sized pieces. Slicing them too thinly might reduce their crunchiness, while slicing them too thickly might prevent the seasoning from penetrating well. Aim for a thickness of about 3-5mm for optimal texture.
Step 3
Squeeze the sliced Oiji firmly with your hands to remove excess water. This step is crucial for achieving a wonderfully crisp texture in your Ojijim. If the water is not properly squeezed out, the seasoning can become watery and the Oiji might turn mushy.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed Oiji with all the seasoning ingredients (2 Tbsp Gochugaru, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sesame oil). Gently mix and massage the ingredients with your hands until the Oiji is evenly coated with the seasoning. Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as this could break down the Oiji; a gentle touch is key.
Step 5
Transfer the well-seasoned Ojijim to a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds on top for an added nutty aroma and a visually appealing finish. It’s delicious served immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for a while for an even more refreshing taste.
