Crispy and Refreshing Oi-ji Muchim (Seasoned Cucumber)
Crispy and Refreshing Oi-ji Muchim (Seasoned Cucumber)
The Easiest Oi-ji Muchim Recipe from Altoran
Make delicious oi-ji muchim with your homemade pickled cucumbers! Its crisp texture and sweet-and-sour flavor are perfect with rice. This Altoran recipe allows you to easily create a fantastic side dish for any occasion. (Measurements are based on adult-sized Korean soup spoons)
Main Ingredients- 4 homemade pickled cucumbers (oi-ji)
- 3 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 1.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 stalks of green onions
- 1.5 Tbsp sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
On the third day of pickling the cucumbers, they have developed a wonderfully firm and slightly shrunken texture. The moisture has sufficiently drained, so there’s no need to squeeze out extra water.
Step 2
You don’t need to soak the oi-ji to remove saltiness. Take the pickled cucumbers directly from their brine and slice them into thin rounds, about 3mm thick. Slicing them thinly is key to ensuring they absorb the seasoning well.
Step 3
Place the sliced oi-ji in a large bowl. Add 1.5 tablespoons of minced garlic. The pungent aroma of garlic will enhance the umami of the cucumbers.
Step 4
Finely chop the green onions into pieces about 3mm thick. The fresh aroma of the green onions will further elevate the flavor of the oi-ji muchim. Add them to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Step 5
Now, let’s add the star of the seasoning: 3 tablespoons of red pepper flakes (gochugaru). Using fine gochugaru will result in a beautiful color and a smoother flavor blend.
Step 6
Finally, add 1.5 tablespoons of sesame seeds. Crush them lightly between your palms before adding to release their nutty aroma. Using crushed sesame seeds instead of sesame oil offers a rich nuttiness while maintaining a clean and fresh taste. Mix everything together gently until well combined.
Step 7
With just this oi-ji muchim, you can effortlessly create a fantastic side dish! The oi-ji from the Altoran recipe is naturally balanced with sweetness and tanginess, and its moisture continues to drain during storage, preserving its delightful crunch. It’s an excellent ingredient that pairs well with any meal. Even with just the provided seasoning, you’ll create a delicious banchan that will make you want to eat another bowl of rice! Enjoy your meal!
