Crispy Young Oriental Melon and Squid Salad
Crispy Young Oriental Melon and Squid Salad
Deliciously Tangy and Sweet Salad with Mature Oriental Melon and Squid
Let’s make a refreshing, sweet, and sour salad with mature oriental melon (Nogaek) and squid. This dish is perfect for a light meal or side dish, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Main Ingredients- 1 Mature Oriental Melon (Nogaek)
- 2 Squids (body section)
Tangy & Sweet Dressing- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 4 Tbsp Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup or similar)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 2 Tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (Korean soybean paste)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 Tbsp Sugar
- 4 Tbsp Vinegar
- 2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 1 Tbsp Oligodang (corn syrup or similar)
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Peel the skin of the mature oriental melon thoroughly and remove the seeds. Then, slice it into thin, bite-sized strips (julienne). If the seeds are prominent or the melon is tough, don’t hesitate to remove them.
Step 2
Lightly salt the julienned melon and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, making the melon crispier and more flavorful. After salting, gently press the melon strips with paper towels or a clean cloth to remove as much liquid as possible.
Step 3
Clean the squid and blanch it in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook, as it can become tough. Immediately rinse the blanched squid in cold water, drain well, and cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine Gochujang (2 Tbsp), Doenjang (1 Tbsp), salt (1 tsp), sugar (1 Tbsp), vinegar (4 Tbsp), minced garlic (2 Tbsp), oligodang (1 Tbsp), and a pinch of sesame seeds (about 1/2 Tbsp). Mix everything together thoroughly to create the dressing. (Adding Doenjang enhances the savory depth of the dressing.)
Step 5
Add the drained oriental melon strips and the prepared squid to the bowl with the dressing. Gently toss everything together with your hands until the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. Avoid over-mixing to prevent the melon from becoming mushy.
Step 6
Finally, drizzle in sesame oil (1 Tbsp) and sprinkle with additional toasted sesame seeds for garnish. You can enjoy it immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for a while for an even more refreshing taste.
