Savory & Sweet Oyster Apple Kimchi (Kkakdugi)
A Delicious Twist: Apple Kkakdugi with Oysters – No Need for Separate Oyster Kimchi!
While radish kimchi (kkakdugi) is delicious, fruit-based kkakdugi offers a unique and delightful flavor! Pear kkakdugi is popular, but today we’re making apple kkakdugi. You won’t need to prepare separate seasoned oysters (eoriguljeot) with this recipe, as the fresh oysters are incorporated directly for a wonderfully rich taste.
Ingredients- 1 medium apple
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy or sand lance)
- 1.5 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, fine grind)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 6 fresh oysters
- A small amount of chopped green onion or scallion (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Today’s recipe features a sweet and tangy apple kkakdugi. We’re adding fresh oysters to enhance its savory depth. It’s a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the flavor of oysters without making a separate seasoned oyster side dish!
Step 2
First, wash the apple thoroughly, peel it, and dice it into approximately 1.5 cm cubes. Cutting them too small might cause them to become mushy, so aim for a bite-sized piece. Once diced, toss the apple with 1.5 tablespoons of fine gochugaru to coat it with color.
Step 3
Next, add 1 tablespoon of fish sauce for that essential umami flavor. You can use either anchovy or sand lance fish sauce. While you can adjust the amount based on your preference, start with 1 tablespoon. Taste and adjust later if needed.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic for a fragrant kick. The slight pungency of garlic will beautifully complement the natural sweetness of the apple, creating a more complex flavor profile.
Step 5
Finally, add 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma. For an even more intense nutty flavor, you can lightly crush the sesame seeds before adding them. I’ll be mixing them in now with the other ingredients. Of course, you can reserve a little to sprinkle on top as a garnish later.
Step 6
Now, put on disposable gloves and gently mix all the ingredients together until evenly coated. Be careful not to mix too vigorously, as this could mash the apple pieces. It’s important to mix thoroughly so the seasoning adheres well to the apple. ♡♡
Step 7
Once the seasoning is somewhat mixed, carefully add the 6 fresh oysters and gently toss them in. Oysters can become overly broken or develop a fishy taste if handled too roughly, so mix them just enough to incorporate them.
Step 8
Transfer the beautifully mixed oyster apple kkakdugi to a serving dish. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by how delicious it turns out! This recipe allows you to fully enjoy the rich flavor of oysters without the hassle of making a separate eoriguljeot.
Step 9
The combination of sweet apple and tender oysters is truly exceptional. It’s mild enough for children to enjoy and soft enough for elderly individuals. Since fruit kimchi utilizes the natural sweetness of the fruit, you don’t need to add extra sugar; it offers a naturally sweet taste.
Step 10
Store any leftover kkakdugi in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will become even more flavorful as the seasonings meld over time. Even children who are picky about kimchi will likely enjoy this sweet apple version. It’s also wonderfully soft and easy to eat for seniors with delicate teeth.
Step 11
Lastly, sprinkle some chopped green onions or scallions on top. This adds a vibrant touch of color to the apple kkakdugi, making it visually appealing. The green from the scallions will beautifully contrast with the red kimchi, creating a mouthwatering presentation.
