Crispy and Refreshing Oi-ji Muchim (Seasoned Korean Cucumbers)
Super Easy Summer Side Dish: Perfectly Delicious and Crunchy Oi-ji Muchim Recipe (Guaranteed Rice Thief!)
When your appetite wanes, there’s no better dish than Oi-ji Muchim! The spicy, sweet, and savory seasoning combined with the delightful crunchy texture is simply exquisite. It’s delicious mixed with rice or even served in a cool broth for a unique twist. While homemade Oi-ji is wonderful, using store-bought Cheong Oi-ji makes it quick and easy. This recipe will surely revive your lost summer appetite and become your favorite side dish!
Main Ingredients
- 2 Korean cucumbers (Oi-ji)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesil-cheong)
- 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 0.5 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (ground or whole)
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
We’re starting with 2 store-bought Korean cucumbers (Oi-ji). (Using Hansalim Cheong Oi-ji in this case).
Step 2
First, rinse the Oi-ji under running water to remove any white powdery residue from the surface. A light rinse is all that’s needed.
Step 3
Slice the Oi-ji thinly into bite-sized pieces. Slicing them about 0.3 to 0.5 cm thick will give you a pleasant crunch.
Step 4
Rinse the sliced Oi-ji 2-3 times in cold water to remove excess saltiness. Soaking them in cold water for about 30 minutes will also help soften them further. It’s good to change the water once or twice during this time.
Step 5
Squeeze out the water from the Oi-ji firmly by hand. If there’s too much moisture, the seasoning can become diluted and won’t adhere well. Squeezing them out with all your might is key!
Step 6
Place the squeezed Oi-ji in a bowl. Add 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp red pepper flakes, 0.5 Tbsp sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp plum extract. These seasonings alone create a delicious flavor!
Step 7
Add sesame seeds. You can lightly crush them with your hands for more flavor, or use pre-ground sesame seeds. This adds a wonderful aroma.
Step 8
Finally, add 1 Tbsp chopped green onion. Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the Oi-ji. Be gentle to avoid mashing the cucumbers.
Step 9
Your delicious Oi-ji Muchim is ready! Serve it attractively in a dish for a wonderful side to your meal. It’s tasty right away, or even better after chilling in the refrigerator for a bit.
