Spicy and Sweet Cucumber Onion Salad
(Special Side Dish) Cucumber and Onion Salad: The Perfect Duo!
This recipe features a delightful combination of crisp cucumbers and sweet onions. We use an equal amount of both ingredients, highlighting the natural sweetness of the onion, which plays a star role rather than just a supporting one. Get ready for a flavorful and refreshing cucumber onion salad that will surely become a favorite!
Ingredients- 2 cucumbers
- 1 tbsp coarse salt (optional)
- 1 onion
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1/2 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp grated ginger (or ginger powder)
- 1 tbsp salted shrimp juice (or fish sauce/soy sauce)
- 2 tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- A pinch of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them into approximately 0.5cm thick rounds. In a bowl, sprinkle the sliced cucumbers with 1 tablespoon of coarse salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to salt. This process draws out excess moisture, making the cucumbers crispier, and also helps to mellow any slight bitterness. After salting, lightly rinse the cucumbers under cold water and gently squeeze out any remaining water. Set aside. (This step is optional but highly recommended for the best texture!)
Step 2
Peel the onion, rinse it under running water, and thinly slice it into slivers. Thinly sliced onions will absorb the seasoning better and are easier to eat.
Step 3
In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared cucumbers and the sliced onions. Add the seasoning ingredients: 1 tablespoon of red pepper flakes, 1/2 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of grated ginger (you can reduce or omit this if you prefer a milder ginger flavor), 1 tablespoon of salted shrimp juice (fish sauce or soy sauce can be used as substitutes), and 2 tablespoons of plum extract for a touch of sweetness. Gently mix everything together to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cucumbers mushy.
Step 4
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds over the salad for a nutty aroma and delicious finish. This spicy and sweet cucumber onion salad is ready to be served immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for a refreshing taste.
