Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad: An Easy and Delicious Side Dish
Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad: An Easy and Delicious Side Dish
A Refreshing Bean Sprout Salad with Savory Crab Sticks
Here’s a simple yet incredibly tasty recipe for bean sprout salad, enhanced with the delightful texture and flavor of imitation crab meat. This ‘Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad’ is perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike, offering a burst of fresh flavor that pairs wonderfully with any meal. Get ready to make your rice disappear with this addictive side dish!
Main Ingredients- 1 bag bean sprouts (approx. 300g)
- 2 sticks imitation crab meat (approx. 60g)
- 2 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang)
- A pinch of salt (for seasoning)
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
For Blanching Bean Sprouts- 1/2 to 1/3 Tbsp salt
- 1/2 to 1/3 Tbsp salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by rinsing the bean sprouts thoroughly under running water. Remove any yellowed roots or dirty stems for a cleaner dish.
Step 2
After washing, drain the bean sprouts well in a colander. It’s crucial to remove excess water, as this can make the final salad taste bland.
Step 3
In a pot, add enough water to cover the bean sprouts. Dissolve 1/2 to 1/3 tablespoon of salt in the water. Adding salt while blanching helps keep the bean sprouts crisp and removes any unwanted odor.
Step 4
Once the salt is dissolved, add all the rinsed bean sprouts to the pot.
Step 5
With the lid off, bring the water to a boil over high heat. As soon as the water starts boiling, continue to blanch the bean sprouts for about 4 to 5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook them, as they will become mushy and lose their pleasant crunch.
Step 6
Immediately after blanching, drain the bean sprouts and rinse them quickly under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. This step is key to maintaining their crisp texture.
Step 7
Drain the cooled bean sprouts again in a colander. Then, gently squeeze them by hand to remove any remaining water. Avoid squeezing too hard, as this can break the sprouts.
Step 8
Cut the imitation crab sticks into 2 or 3 bite-sized pieces. Cutting them makes them easier to manage and mix into the salad.
Step 9
Gently shred the cut crab sticks into thin strands with your fingers. This allows the seasoning to coat each strand evenly, making the salad more flavorful.
Step 10
Combine the drained bean sprouts and the shredded imitation crab sticks in a large mixing bowl.
Step 11
Add the chopped green onion and minced garlic to the bowl. These aromatics will enhance the overall taste.
Step 12
Add 1/2 tablespoon of soy sauce for soup (guk-ganjang) and a pinch of salt. Guk-ganjang adds a savory depth, while salt helps to adjust the overall seasoning.
Step 13
Put on disposable gloves and gently mix all the ingredients by hand. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Taste the salad and add a little more salt if needed to achieve your desired flavor.
Step 14
Once the seasoning is perfect, add 1.5 tablespoons of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds.
Step 15
Finally, toss gently one more time to incorporate the sesame oil and seeds. Avoid overmixing after adding the sesame oil to preserve its fragrance.
Step 16
Your delicious Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad is ready! Enjoy this visually appealing and flavorful dish that will elevate your meal.
