Crisp and Refreshing Spring Cabbage (Bomdong) Salad Recipe
Crisp and Refreshing Spring Cabbage (Bomdong) Salad Recipe
Freshly Tossed Spring Cabbage Salad Made with Sweet, Winter-Hardened Bomdong
Bomdong, one of the first vegetables to herald spring, is perfect for a crisp salad or seasoned vegetable dish due to its crunchy texture. It’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it effective in preventing aging. Enjoy the health benefits and a boost to your appetite with this Bomdong salad. Make plenty while it’s in season! ^^
Ingredients- 2 heads of fresh Bomdong (Korean spring cabbage)
- 3 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, fine)
- 1 stalk of green onion
- 2 Tbsp coarse sea salt (for wilting the cabbage)
- 1 Tbsp fish sauce (anchovy)
- 1 Tbsp salted shrimp
- 2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1/2 Tbsp sugar
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Here we have 2 heads of fresh Bomdong. We’ll be making a delicious salad that highlights its sweetness and crunchy texture.
Step 2
Gently separate the leaves of the Bomdong one by one. Rinse them thoroughly under running water, making sure to remove any dirt or debris, especially around the base of the leaves.
Step 3
Sprinkle the coarse sea salt evenly over the washed Bomdong leaves. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, then flip the cabbage and let it sit for another 5 minutes. I only wilted mine slightly to keep its crispness. You can also skip the wilting step and toss it directly for a fresh salad. ^^
Step 4
Rinse the slightly wilted Bomdong under running water a couple of times to remove excess salt. Gently press out as much water as possible. Excess water can dilute the dressing.
Step 5
Cut the Bomdong leaves into bite-sized pieces. While you can leave the leaves whole for a salad, I’ve cut them into large pieces for easier eating.
Step 6
While the Bomdong is draining, let’s prepare the seasoning. In a bowl, combine the fish sauce, salted shrimp, gochugaru, sugar, and minced garlic. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 7
Add about two-thirds of the prepared seasoning to the Bomdong and gently toss.
Step 8
Toss gently to coat the Bomdong. Taste and add the remaining seasoning as needed, tossing again gently. *Important Tip: Avoid vigorously rubbing the leaves, as this can make them mushy. Instead, toss them gently, almost as if you’re caressing them, to maintain their crisp texture.
Step 9
Transfer the beautifully tossed Bomdong salad to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for a final touch! Each bite offers a delightful combination of sweetness, refreshing crunch, and nutty flavor. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a wonderful accompaniment to grilled meats!
