Sesame Leaf Salad (Ssam Baechu Muchim) Recipe
Crispy and Nutty Ssam Baechu Salad
A refreshing and crunchy Ssam Baechu (lettuce wrap cabbage) salad tossed in a savory and aromatic dressing. This vibrant dish adds a delightful texture and flavor to any meal, perfect as a side dish or to accompany grilled meats. Its fresh taste will surely awaken your appetite.
Main Ingredients- 1 pack Ssam Baechu (choose fresh, crisp heads)
- 1 handful of cabbage leaves (extra leaves for mixing)
- 1 cucumber (medium-sized, fresh)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1/2 Tbsp ginger juice (adds depth and balances the garlic)
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (freshly minced is best for aroma)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to spice preference)
- 3 Tbsp anchovy sauce (for umami and savory flavor)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (adds richness and a smooth finish)
- Sesame seeds, as needed (for a nutty garnish)
- 1/2 Tbsp ginger juice (adds depth and balances the garlic)
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic (freshly minced is best for aroma)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, adjust to spice preference)
- 3 Tbsp anchovy sauce (for umami and savory flavor)
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (adds richness and a smooth finish)
- Sesame seeds, as needed (for a nutty garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash the Ssam Baechu and the extra cabbage leaves. For the Ssam Baechu, rinse under running water, ensuring you clean between the leaves to remove any dirt or debris. Gently shake off excess water or pat dry with paper towels. Do the same for the extra cabbage leaves.
Step 2
Wash the cucumber and trim off the ends. Cut the cucumber into quarters lengthwise, then slice each quarter thinly into flat pieces, about 0.1-0.2 inches thick. This shape helps the dressing adhere well and provides a pleasant bite.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients. Add gochugaru, anchovy sauce, minced garlic, ginger juice, and olive oil. Stir well with a spoon or spatula until the dressing is smooth and well-blended, ensuring there are no clumps.
Step 4
Add the prepared Ssam Baechu and sliced cucumber to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together with your hands, ensuring all the leaves and cucumber slices are evenly coated with the seasoning. Avoid over-mixing to prevent the cabbage from becoming soggy. Finally, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and texture. Your delicious Ssam Baechu salad is ready to serve!
