Aromatic Chwinamul (Aster Scaber) Salad with Doenjang
Aromatic Chwinamul (Aster Scaber) Salad with Doenjang
How to Make Chwinamul Salad: Blanching Spring Aster Scaber and Making a Delicious Doenjang Seasoned Salad
Here’s a recipe for aromatic Chwinamul salad, capturing the essence of spring! Fresh and tender Chwinamul, reminiscent of garden-fresh greens, boasts a wonderful flavor on its own. When paired with a simple Doenjang (fermented soybean paste) dressing, its taste becomes even richer. This is a delightful side dish that highlights the natural fragrance of Chwinamul without complex seasonings, making it easy for anyone to prepare. Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with this seasonal Chwinamul salad!
Main Ingredients- 150g blanched Chwinamul (Aster Scaber)
- 0.5 Tbsp coarse salt (for blanching)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (ground)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 Tbsp Doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (ground)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the Fresh Chwinamul: If using young Chwinamul harvested fresh from the garden, it requires minimal preparation. If using store-bought Chwinamul, trim any tough stems and remove any wilted or dirty leaves. Rinse the greens thoroughly 2-3 times under running water, then drain well.
Step 2
Blanch the Chwinamul Perfectly: Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 0.5 Tbsp of coarse salt and stir until dissolved. Add the prepared Chwinamul and stir briefly. Blanch for just 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to an ice-cold water bath to cool it down completely. Rinse again and drain thoroughly. This quick blanching helps maintain the Chwinamul’s crisp texture and vibrant green color. Squeeze out excess water before proceeding.
Step 3
Season and Mix: Place the squeezed Chwinamul in a bowl. Add 1 Tbsp of Doenjang, 0.5 Tbsp of minced garlic, 1 Tbsp of toasted sesame seeds, and 1 Tbsp of fragrant perilla oil. Since Chwinamul is tender and aromatic in spring, it’s best to enhance its natural flavor with simple ingredients like Doenjang and perilla oil rather than using heavy seasonings. Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring the seasoning coats the greens evenly.
Step 4
Plate and Garnish: Arrange the seasoned Chwinamul attractively on a serving plate. Sprinkle with whole toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor and appealing finish. Your fragrant spring vegetable side dish is now ready!
Step 5
Savor the Flavors of Seasonal Spring Greens! What could be a better restorative meal than dishes made with fresh, seasonal spring vegetables? Chwinamul Doenjang Muchim is a special delicacy that can only be enjoyed during the spring season.
Step 6
Making Vegetable Side Dishes is Easy! You’ll find a variety of spring greens available at supermarkets and markets these days. Making vegetable side dishes might seem daunting at first, but with regular practice, you’ll become comfortable and your family will surely enjoy these healthy meals! Bring the fragrant essence of spring to your table with fresh Chwinamul!
