Crispy and Delicious Paprika Salad with Gochujang
Chef Baek Jong-won’s Paprika Salad Recipe: A Crunchy and Flavorful Gochujang Paprika Salad
I had leftover bell peppers and was wondering what to make, so I tried this paprika salad recipe from Chef Baek Jong-won. It was so delicious that I wanted to share it with you all. This recipe brings out the wonderful crunch of fresh bell peppers with a sweet and spicy dressing, making it a perfect side dish or even a light salad.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers, 240g (about 1-2 peppers)
- Green onion, 16g (mainly the white parts)
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste), 2 Tbsp
- Toasted sesame seeds, a pinch
- Sugar, 2/3 Tbsp (adjust to taste)
- Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), 1 Tbsp
- Minced garlic, 4/5 Tbsp (approx. 0.8 Tbsp)
- Sesame oil, 2 Tbsp
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the bell peppers thoroughly under running water. Trim off the ends and then slice them lengthwise into thin strips. Using a variety of colored bell peppers will make the dish look even more appealing and appetizing. Tip: Removing the seeds and white pith from the bell peppers will prevent any bitterness and ensure a delicious taste.
Step 2
Place the julienned bell peppers into a large mixing bowl. Add the finely chopped green onions to the bowl. This completes the preparation of the main ingredients. The green onions, when mixed with the sweetness of the bell peppers, enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step 3
Now it’s time to add the seasonings. Start by adding 4/5 Tbsp of minced garlic. I used a small measuring spoon, slightly leveled off, but feel free to adjust this amount according to your preference.
Step 4
Next, add 2 Tbsp of gochujang. Keep in mind that the saltiness and flavor of gochujang can vary between brands. It’s a good idea to add about half of the gochujang first, taste, and then add more if needed. This way, you can prevent the dish from becoming too salty or spicy.
Step 5
To add a clean and slightly spicy flavor, add 1 Tbsp of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). This will also enhance the vibrant color of the dish and give it a delightful kick.
Step 6
Add the prepared seasonings to the bowl with the bell peppers and green onions. Gently toss everything together with your hands to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the ingredients. After a light toss, drizzle in 2 Tbsp of sesame oil for added aroma and flavor.
Step 7
Finally, sprinkle a pinch of toasted sesame seeds over the salad for a nutty aroma and taste. Toss gently one more time. Your crispy and delicious paprika salad with gochujang is now complete! You can enjoy it immediately, or chill it in the refrigerator for a while for an even more refreshing taste.
