Aromatic Water Parsley Salad (Minari Muchim)
Aromatic Water Parsley Salad (Minari Muchim)
How to Make Minari Muchim: From Blanching to Seasoning
As spring arrives, the craving for fragrant wild greens begins! This seasoned water parsley dish, prepared with a spicy and sweet dressing, is wonderful served alongside meat or enjoyed simply as a flavorful side dish with rice. Its refreshing aroma is delightful.
Main Ingredients- 1 bunch Water Parsley (Minari, approx. 100g)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Thoroughly wash the fresh water parsley under running water, ensuring any soil or debris is removed. Trim off the tough ends of the stems, about 1-2 cm. For easier seasoning absorption, you can gently split the stems lengthwise, especially where the leaves meet the stem. Remove any wilted or damaged parts.
Step 2
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. Once boiling, carefully add the thicker stem parts of the water parsley and blanch for about 30 seconds. Then, add the leafy parts and blanch for another 15 seconds. Water parsley can become mushy if overcooked, so a quick blanch is key to maintaining its crisp texture.
Step 3
Immediately after blanching, transfer the water parsley to a bowl of cold water to shock it and stop the cooking process. This helps retain its vibrant green color and crispness. Gently squeeze out excess water using your hands. Cut the blanched water parsley into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm long. Avoid cutting it too finely, as this can diminish the satisfying texture.
Step 4
Place the squeezed water parsley in a mixing bowl. Add all the seasoning ingredients: gochujang, oligodang, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Wearing disposable gloves, gently toss and mix the water parsley with the seasonings until evenly coated. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed; you can add a tiny bit more gochujang or salt for a more personalized flavor.
Step 5
Arrange the seasoned water parsley in a serving dish. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for a nutty aroma and a beautiful finish. Your delicious and fragrant Minari Muchim is now ready to be enjoyed!
