Crispy and Refreshing Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
Crispy and Refreshing Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
The Ultimate Oiji Muchim Recipe: A Deliciously Crunchy and Cool Side Dish
This pickled cucumber salad is a perfect side for any meal, especially when you need an appetite booster! Serve it with rice and a splash of water, or use it in refreshing cold soups. Here’s a super simple recipe to make this delightful banchan.
Main Ingredients- 3 Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Cheongyang peppers (seeds removed, finely minced)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Cheongyang peppers (seeds removed, finely minced)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the 3 Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji) thoroughly under running water. Slice them thinly, about 2-3mm thick. Slicing them too thick might prevent the seasoning from penetrating well.
Step 2
Place the sliced Oiji in a bowl and soak them in cold water for 10 minutes. This step helps to remove excess saltiness, ensuring a pleasant, refreshing taste without being too salty.
Step 3
If you enjoy a bit of spice, finely mince 2 Cheongyang peppers after removing the seeds. (Optional) If you’d like to add scallions, thinly slice about half of a scallion, focusing on the white parts. (Optional)
Step 4
After soaking for 10 minutes, drain the Oiji in a colander. Squeeze out as much water as possible by hand. Properly squeezing out the water is crucial for the seasoning to adhere well and for the best texture.
Step 5
Transfer the squeezed Oiji to a mixing bowl. Add all the seasoning ingredients: 1 Tbsp Gochugaru, 1 Tbsp minced garlic, and the minced Cheongyang peppers (or scallions). Adjust the spiciness by modifying the amount of Cheongyang peppers.
Step 6
Finally, add 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a nutty aroma and a generous sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for garnish.
Step 7
Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed on the Oiji. Continue mixing until the vibrant red color of the chili flakes coats the cucumbers beautifully.
Step 8
Voila! Without any cooking, using simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ve made a delicious Oiji Muchim with a wonderfully crunchy texture. It’s ready to eat immediately, or you can chill it in the refrigerator for an even more refreshing taste.
