korean cucumber salad recipe 🥒🔥

Korean cucumber salad, known as Oi Muchim (오이무침), is a quick and flavorful side dish that’s a staple in Korean cuisine. This dish features crisp cucumbers coated in a spicy, garlicky, and slightly sweet sauce. It’s a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and freshness, making it a great complement to Korean BBQ, rice dishes, or even as a standalone snack.

This salad is incredibly easy to prepare and takes only a few minutes. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned cook, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!

Ingredients

• 2 Korean cucumbers (or English cucumbers)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 green onion, finely chopped

How to Make Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe ?

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers

• Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.
• Slice them into thin rounds (about ¼-inch thick).
• If using an English cucumber, you may remove the seeds for a less watery salad.

Step 2: Salt the Cucumbers

• Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl.
• Sprinkle salt over them and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
• Rinse the cucumbers under cold water and drain well.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

• In a mixing bowl, combine gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic.
• Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

• Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing.
• Toss well until the cucumbers are fully coated.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds on top.
• Serve immediately or let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb flavors.

Variations

• Less Spicy: Reduce the gochugaru or omit it for a milder version.
• Sweeter Version: Add a little honey or more sugar to balance the spice.
• Garlic-Lover’s Twist: Increase the minced garlic for a bolder flavor.
• Soy-Free Option: Substitute coconut aminos for soy sauce.
• Extra Crunch: Add julienned carrots or radish for more texture.

Cooking Notes

• Cucumber Choice: Korean cucumbers are ideal, but Persian or English cucumbers work well too.
• Make Ahead: This salad is best fresh but can be stored for up to 1 day in the refrigerator.
• Serving Temperature: Enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside Korean BBQ (bulgogi or galbi) for a refreshing contrast.
• Pair with steamed rice and kimchi for a simple meal.
• Add it to bibimbap for extra crunch and spice.
• Enjoy as a topping for grilled fish or chicken.

Helpful Tips

✔️ Don’t skip salting – It removes excess water and keeps the cucumbers crisp.
✔️ Adjust spice level – Add more or less gochugaru based on your heat tolerance.
✔️ Use fresh ingredients – Fresh garlic, green onions, and sesame seeds enhance the flavor.
✔️ Let it sit – Allowing the salad to marinate for 10–15 minutes deepens the flavors.

Related Recipes :

• Coconut Chicken Rice Recipe
• Chinese Chicken Salad with Ramen Noodles
• Easy Chicken Vegetable Stir Fry Recipe
• Purple Sweet Potato Recipes

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. If storing, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Q: Can I use regular cucumbers?

A: Yes! If using regular cucumbers, remove the seeds to prevent excess moisture.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Traditional soy sauce contains gluten. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari for a gluten-free version.

Q: What does "Oi Muchim" mean?

A: “Oi” means cucumber, and “Muchim” means seasoned or mixed, so it translates to “seasoned cucumbers.”

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Absolutely! Carrots, radish, and onions make great additions.

Conclusion

Korean cucumber salad (Oi Muchim) is a quick, spicy, and refreshing side dish that enhances any meal. Whether you’re serving it with Korean BBQ, rice, or eating it as a snack, this easy recipe brings bold flavors to your table. Try making it today and enjoy a taste of Korea at home! 🇰🇷🥒🔥

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