Spicy, Tangy, and Sweet Cucumber Salad (Oi-chae Muchim)
Super Simple Cucumber Salad Recipe: Perfectly Spicy, Tangy, and Sweet
This is an incredibly simple and refreshing cucumber salad. Its perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors makes it a delightful side dish that will surely whet your appetite.
Main Ingredients- 1 medium cucumber
- 1 Korean green chili pepper (or adjust to your spice preference)
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp maesilcheong (plum syrup/extract)
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 2 Tbsp cider (or clear soda)
- 1 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp maesilcheong (plum syrup/extract)
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 2 Tbsp cider (or clear soda)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start by making the delicious seasoning sauce that will define the flavor of your cucumber salad. First, add 1 tablespoon of gochujang.
Step 2
Add 1 tablespoon of gochugaru for a touch of spiciness.
Step 3
Incorporate 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for umami and seasoning.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon of sugar to bring out a subtle sweetness.
Step 5
For a mild sweetness and added depth of flavor, add 1 tablespoon of maesilcheong (plum syrup).
Step 6
Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar to provide that appetizing tanginess. You can adjust the amount of vinegar to your preference.
Step 7
Finally, add 2 tablespoons of cider (or a clear, unflavored soda like Sprite) for sweetness and a refreshing flavor boost. This creates a wonderfully balanced sauce.
Step 8
Now, let’s prepare the cucumber. Wash the cucumber thoroughly, then slice it diagonally in half. Cut these halves into slices about 0.5 cm thick. Finally, julienne these slices into thin strips, approximately 0.3 cm wide. Thinly sliced cucumber will absorb the seasoning better and have a more pleasant texture.
Step 9
If you enjoy a spicier kick, finely mince 1 Korean green chili pepper (seeds removed) and add it. If you prefer milder heat, you can use a regular green pepper or omit it altogether.
Step 10
In a large bowl, combine the julienned cucumber and minced chili pepper. Pour all the prepared seasoning sauce over them. Using your hands or a spatula, gently mix everything together, ensuring the seasoning coats the cucumber evenly without crushing it.
Step 11
Lastly, drizzle about half a tablespoon of sesame oil for a nutty aroma. Be careful not to add too much, as it can overpower the fresh cucumber flavor.
Step 12
Sprinkle generously with 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds, then give it another gentle toss. The aromatic sesame oil and the delightful crunch of sesame seeds will complete your delicious cucumber salad.
Step 13
Transfer the finished cucumber salad to a serving plate. This dish is incredibly simple yet so flavorful that it’s perfect for stimulating your appetite. Enjoy your meal!
