Crispy, Spicy & Sweet Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)
The Perfect Appetizer to Boost Your Appetite on Hot Summer Days!
When the summer heat makes you lose your appetite, this refreshing and spicy cucumber salad (Oi Muchim) is the perfect solution! The delightful crunch of fresh cucumbers combined with the zing of spicy chili peppers awakens your taste buds and makes every meal more enjoyable. It’s a simple yet incredibly flavorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cucumber (medium size)
- 1/2 onion
- 2-3 Korean green chilies (or to taste)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by preparing your fresh ingredients: one medium cucumber and half an onion. Wash the cucumber thoroughly and pat it dry before proceeding.
Step 2
Thinly slice the prepared onion into shreds. If you’re not a fan of onions or prefer a different texture, you can substitute them with finely chopped chives – they add a lovely aroma and fresh flavor!
Step 3
Next, slice the cucumber. Cut it in half lengthwise, then slice each half thinly on an angle, about 0.5 cm thick. This slicing method helps the cucumber absorb the dressing beautifully.
Step 4
Remove the stems from the Korean green chilies, wash them, and slice them thinly on a diagonal. If you enjoy a spicier kick, feel free to add more chilies or leave some of the seeds in.
Step 5
Combine the sliced cucumber, shredded onion, and diagonally sliced green chilies in a large mixing bowl. Your salad is almost ready to be dressed!
Step 6
Add 3 tablespoons of soy sauce for a savory base to the dressing. Soy sauce is the foundation of many Korean flavors.
Step 7
Pour in 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for a bright, tangy flavor that complements the cucumber perfectly and stimulates the appetite.
Step 8
Add 1 tablespoon of plum extract. This adds a natural sweetness and a subtle fruity note, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you don’t have plum extract, honey or corn syrup can be used as alternatives.
Step 9
Stir in 1 tablespoon of sugar to balance the sweet and sour elements. You can adjust the sugar to your preference.
Step 10
Finally, add 2 tablespoons of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for a vibrant color and a pleasant spicy heat. Feel free to add more if you like it extra spicy.
Step 11
Gently toss all the ingredients with the dressing using your hands, ensuring everything is well-coated. Be careful not to overmix or mash the cucumber to maintain its refreshing crispness. Once evenly seasoned, your delicious spicy, sweet, and sour cucumber salad is ready! It’s best enjoyed fresh, but chilling it in the refrigerator for a short while will make it even more refreshing. Enjoy!
