Steamed Angled Luffa Gourd (Ggwari Gochu) – A Refreshing and Flavorful Seasonal Side Dish
Rich in Vitamins! An Easy Recipe for Steamed Angled Luffa Gourd
This is a beloved side dish from my maternal grandmother’s home in Gangneung. It’s simple, incredibly delicious, and highly recommended! It’s a wonderful way to enjoy seasonal vegetables, packed with vitamins and offering a delightful texture.
Main Ingredients
- 400g Angled Luffa Gourd (Ggwari Gochu)
- 1 cup Flour (tempura or pancake mix can also be used)
Seasoning Ingredients
- 4 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Tuna Extract (or fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp Maesil Cheong (plum syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup)
- 2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (Deulgireum)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- A pinch of Sesame Oil (for finishing)
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for finishing)
- 4 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Tuna Extract (or fish sauce)
- 1 Tbsp Maesil Cheong (plum syrup)
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup)
- 2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (Deulgireum)
- 1 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- A pinch of Sesame Oil (for finishing)
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for finishing)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the angled luffa gourds thoroughly under running water and remove all the stems. If the gourds are too long, cut them in half or into thirds for bite-sized pieces.
Step 2
After washing, drain the gourds well in a colander. You can gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps the flour coat evenly. Then, add the flour (tempura or pancake mix works too) and gently toss the gourds to coat them evenly. It’s important to achieve a thin, even coating of flour.
Step 3
Fill a steamer pot with water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Once the steam is strong, place the floured gourds inside, cover, and steam for just about 3 minutes. Steaming them briefly is key to maintaining their crisp texture; overcooking will make them mushy.
Step 4
While the gourds are steaming, prepare the flavorful seasoning sauce. In a bowl, combine 4 Tbsp gochugaru, 2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1 Tbsp tuna extract, 1 Tbsp maesil cheong, 1 Tbsp oligodang, and 1 Tbsp minced garlic. Mix well.
Step 5
Once the steamed gourds have cooled slightly, add the prepared seasoning sauce and 2 Tbsp perilla oil. Gently mix everything together, being careful not to mash the gourds. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Finally, stir in a pinch of sesame oil and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds for extra aroma and flavor.
Step 6
Transfer the seasoned angled luffa gourds to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and attractive presentation. Enjoy this crisp and aromatic side dish!
