Peppery Lettuce and Onion Fresh Salad (Geotjeori)
A Fresh and Peppery Lettuce and Onion Combination Geotjeori
The lettuce I planted in spring is reaching its end. I decided to make a quick geotjeori with its tender leaves and some onion. Instead of making it purely sour, I mixed soy sauce and fish sauce and tossed everything together. This recipe brings together the crispness of onion with the delicate texture of lettuce, enhanced by a subtle peppery kick and a balanced sweet and savory dressing.
Ingredients
- 1 large handful of fresh lettuce
- 1/2 onion
- 1 red chili pepper
- 1/2 green onion
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (or syrup)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil (or sesame oil)
- A pinch of black pepper
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by carefully selecting the tender, soft leaves from the stems of your fresh lettuce. These leaves are less bitter and have a delicate texture that’s perfect for geotjeori.
Step 2
Thinly slice the onion and finely chop the green onion. Slice the red chili pepper diagonally for a pop of color. Adding the onion provides a wonderful crispness and a subtle sweetness to the salad.
Step 3
Now, let’s prepare the delicious dressing. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of gochugaru, 1 teaspoon of soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon of fish sauce, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, and 1 tablespoon of plum extract.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon of perilla oil (or sesame oil) for a rich, nutty aroma and flavor. Don’t forget a pinch of black pepper to enhance the overall aroma. Stir the dressing ingredients well.
Step 5
Gently add the prepared lettuce, onion, green onion, and red chili pepper to the bowl with the dressing. Toss everything together lightly, ensuring the leaves are coated without bruising them. The key is to mix it thoroughly yet delicately.
Step 6
For a zesty and sweet twist, especially during warmer months when your appetite might need a boost, consider adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar and 1/2 tablespoon of sugar to the dressing. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for a beautiful finish and nutty crunch. Enjoy this refreshing salad!
