Crisp and Refreshing Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
A Summer Delight: This Refreshing Pickled Cucumber Salad is So Addictive!
Introducing Oiji Muchim, a perfect side dish for the summer! Made with simple seasonings, it’s a refreshing banchan that will have you reaching for more. It’s great on its own or as a delicious filling for kimbap!
Main Ingredients
- 2 Korean cucumbers (Oiji)
- 1 Cheongyang chili pepper
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Lightly rinse the Oiji under running water. You don’t need to remove too much saltiness, just a quick rinse. Then, thinly slice the cucumbers into about 3-5mm thick pieces. Slicing them too thick can prevent the seasonings from penetrating well and affect the texture.
Step 2
If the Oiji is too salty, soak it in cold water for about 5-10 minutes to reduce the saltiness. Be careful not to soak it for too long, as this can diminish its natural flavor. After soaking, drain the Oiji thoroughly in a colander.
Step 3
Finely mince the Cheongyang chili pepper after removing the stem. If you enjoy a spicier kick, leave the seeds in. If you prefer it milder, remove the seeds. You can also substitute with a regular green chili pepper if you don’t want it too spicy.
Step 4
Place the drained Oiji in a bowl and gently squeeze it with your hands to remove any remaining water. This step is crucial for the seasonings to adhere well and absorb into the cucumbers, ensuring a delicious outcome.
Step 5
Add the squeezed Oiji, minced Cheongyang chili pepper, and all the seasoning ingredients (red pepper flakes, sesame oil, rice syrup, fish sauce, and sesame seeds) to the bowl. Gently mix and toss everything together with your hands until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the cucumbers mushy.
Step 6
Your crisp and refreshing Oiji Muchim is ready! It’s delicious served immediately, or chilled in the refrigerator for an even more refreshing taste. Enjoy it as a side dish or use it as a flavorful filling for kimbap. For a visual guide, check out the video recipe on our YouTube channel. Enjoy your meal!
