Crispy Korean Cucumber Pepper with Soybean Paste Salad
Refreshing and Crunchy Korean Cucumber Pepper Salad with Doenjang
Enjoy this delightful salad made with ‘Oigo-chu,’ Korean cucumber peppers, which are known to be exceptionally rich in Vitamin C – 18 times more than apples! This dish is not only healthy but also incredibly refreshing and crunchy, perfect for awakening your appetite, especially during warmer months. It’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings fresh, wholesome taste to your table.
Main Ingredients- 1 bag Korean Cucumber Peppers (approx. 200-250g)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar (can substitute with 1 Tbsp plum syrup for sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (fermented soybean paste) (can substitute with 1 Tbsp Ssamjang for a richer flavor)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp water
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar (can substitute with 1 Tbsp plum syrup for sweetness)
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (fermented soybean paste) (can substitute with 1 Tbsp Ssamjang for a richer flavor)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gather all the ingredients needed for the recipe. Using fresh Korean cucumber peppers will ensure the best taste and texture.
Step 2
Rinse the Korean cucumber peppers thoroughly under running water and pat them dry. Trim off the stems, then slice them into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 2 finger-joints long (approximately 2-3 cm). Avoid slicing them too thinly, as they might become mushy.
Step 3
In a large bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients for the Doenjang salad. Add 1 Tbsp Gochugaru, a pinch of toasted sesame seeds, 1/2 Tbsp sugar (adjust sweetness to your preference, or substitute with 1 Tbsp plum syrup), 1 Tbsp Doenjang (or substitute with 1 Tbsp Ssamjang for a deeper flavor), 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp of water. Adding a little water helps the seasoning mix to become smoother and coat the peppers evenly.
Step 4
Add the sliced Korean cucumber peppers to the bowl with the prepared seasoning mix. Gently toss and mix to ensure the seasoning coats each pepper evenly. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can break down the peppers. Continue to gently combine until all peppers are well-coated with the flavorful dressing.
Step 5
Your delicious Korean Cucumber Pepper with Doenjang salad is now ready! It can be enjoyed immediately. For an even more refreshing taste, chill it in the refrigerator for a short while before serving. This dish makes an excellent side for rice or can be served as a fresh wrap filling. Enjoy this healthy and tasty treat!
