Refreshing & Tangy Radish Salad (Mu Saengchae)
The Ultimate Mu Saengchae Recipe for Deliciousness
This Mu Saengchae is incredibly delicious when mixed with rice! It’s a perfect side dish that’s refreshingly tart, slightly sweet, and satisfyingly crunchy.
Main Ingredients- 1.3kg Korean radish (daikon), large and firm
- 1 cucumber, fresh
- 3 stalks scallions
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, peel the Korean radish thoroughly. Simply remove the outer skin.
Step 2
Slice the peeled radish into long, thin strips about 0.5cm thick. If they are too thin, they can become mushy, so cutting them to a moderate thickness is key to maintaining their crispness.
Step 3
Wash the cucumber, cut it in half lengthwise, and then slice it diagonally about 0.5cm thick. If the seeds are too numerous and might release excess water, you can optionally scoop them out.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine the julienned radish and sliced cucumber. Mix them lightly to ensure they are evenly distributed.
Step 5
Prepare 1 container of plain yogurt in a small cup or bowl. Any type of plain yogurt will work well.
Step 6
Pour the prepared plain yogurt over the radish and cucumber in the bowl. Mixing it in coats the ingredients, adding a smoother texture.
Step 7
Now it’s time for the main seasoning. Add 5 Tbsp gochugaru, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp plum extract, 2 Tbsp anchovy sauce, 2 Tbsp sugar, 6 Tbsp apple cider vinegar, and 1/2 Tbsp salt to the bowl. Finely chop the scallions and add them as well.
Step 8
Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is well distributed throughout the radish and cucumber. Avoid mixing too vigorously to prevent the radish from becoming mushy. Taste and add a little more salt if needed.
Step 9
Finally, sprinkle 1 Tbsp of toasted sesame seeds over the top and mix lightly to finish. Serve the Mu Saengchae beautifully in a dish. It’s incredibly refreshing and fresh right after mixing, with a depth of flavor reminiscent of well-aged kimchi. It’s perfect for mixing with rice or enjoying as a standalone side dish!
