Crispy and Refreshing Cucumber Kimchi (Oi Kimchi)
Crispy and Refreshing Cucumber Kimchi (Oi Kimchi)
The Ultimate Summer Side Dish: How to Make Refreshing Cucumber Kimchi!
Are you struggling with what side dishes to make today? When your appetite is low, this Oi Kimchi recipe will fill your plate with refreshing flavors. It’s simple yet boasts a delightful crispiness that makes it a perfect rice companion!
Main Ingredients- 3 cucumbers (medium-sized)
- 1/2 onion
- 1 handful of chives
- 1/2 Tbsp coarse salt (for salting cucumbers)
Seasoning Ingredients- 3 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 2 Tbsp saeujeot (fermented salted shrimp), finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 Tbsp anchovy sauce or fish sauce
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 3 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 2 Tbsp saeujeot (fermented salted shrimp), finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1/2 Tbsp anchovy sauce or fish sauce
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the 3 cucumbers thoroughly and dice them into bite-sized cubes, about 1.5cm thick. Sprinkle 1/2 Tbsp of coarse salt over the diced cucumbers and toss to coat evenly. Let them salt for about 30 minutes. Rinse the salted cucumbers lightly under cold water and drain them well. Place them in a sieve to remove any excess moisture.
Step 2
Thinly slice the 1/2 onion. Now, in a bowl, combine the drained cucumbers and sliced onions. Add all the pre-mixed seasoning ingredients: 3 Tbsp gochugaru, 2 Tbsp finely chopped saeujeot, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1.5 Tbsp sugar, 1/2 Tbsp fish sauce, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Mix everything together.
Step 3
Gently toss the cucumbers and onions with the seasonings using your hands, ensuring the dressing is evenly distributed. Be careful not to mash the cucumbers; the key is to coat them thoroughly with the seasoning mixture.
Step 4
Wash the chives and cut them into lengths similar to the cucumber pieces. Add the cut chives to the bowl with the seasoned cucumbers and onions. Mix gently to combine, preserving the fresh aroma of the chives without overmixing or bruising them. The trick is to mix lightly so the chives retain their vibrant flavor and texture.
Step 5
Your delicious Oi Kimchi is now complete! Transfer the finished cucumber kimchi to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy it chilled for an even more delightful taste. The crisp and refreshing flavor is sure to awaken your appetite and have you finishing your rice in no time!
