Cucumber and Crab Stick Salad (Oi Kraemi Muchim)
Super Simple No-Cook Summer Side Dish: How to Make Cucumber and Crab Stick Salad
As the summer heat intensifies, you might be wondering what side dishes to make. Standing over a hot stove can be quite a challenge when it’s already sweltering. My father often comments whenever I use the gas stove, asking what I’m doing again. To be honest, it’s not just a casual question; he really disapproves. Feeling a bit hesitant to cook at the stove due to his watchful eye, I decided to create a dish that requires no cooking at all. Introducing ‘Oi Kraemi Muchim,’ a refreshing salad made with fresh cucumber and crab sticks! Cucumber is a star summer vegetable, packed with hydration, making it perfect for replenishing your body’s moisture. If you find it difficult to drink enough water throughout the day, enjoying this refreshing side dish is a delightful way to stay hydrated. Let me guide you through the simple process of making Oi Kraemi Muchim right now.
Ingredients- 1 cucumber
- 10 imitation crab sticks (krabmi)
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp ground sesame seeds
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 pinches of salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently shred the imitation crab sticks lengthwise into thin strands. Shredding them this way helps the seasoning to distribute evenly and creates a more pleasant texture.
Step 2
Wash the cucumber thoroughly and then julienne it into thin strips, about 0.3 cm thick. Slicing them too thick can result in a less appealing texture, while slicing them too thinly might make them soggy quickly. Aim for a consistent, medium thickness.
Step 3
Place the julienned cucumber in a mixing bowl. Add 2 pinches of salt and gently toss to combine. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to draw out some of the cucumber’s moisture. This step is key to achieving a crisp texture.
Step 4
After 5 minutes, take the salted cucumber and firmly squeeze out any excess water with your hands. Then, place the cucumber in a sieve or colander to drain any remaining moisture completely. Removing as much water as possible will prevent the salad from becoming watery and ensure the flavors are concentrated.
Step 5
Return the drained cucumber to the mixing bowl. Add the shredded imitation crab sticks, 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of ground sesame seeds, 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic, and the remaining 1 pinch of salt. Mix everything together thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and coated with the seasoning.
Step 6
Finally, transfer the well-mixed cucumber and crab stick salad to your serving dish. For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, you can sprinkle a little more toasted sesame seeds on top. Enjoy your delicious, no-cook Oi Kraemi Muchim, ready in just minutes!
