Crispy and Savory Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
Crispy and Savory Pickled Cucumber Salad (Oiji Muchim)
The Ultimate Rice Thief! Easy Oiji Muchim Recipe
This pickled cucumber salad, known as Oiji Muchim, is a true ‘rice thief’ thanks to its addictive crunchy texture and sweet and tangy flavor! It’s a perfect side dish for when you have no other banchan available, or to revive your appetite with a bowl of freshly steamed rice. It’s incredibly simple to make, perfect for beginners.
Main Ingredients- 2 Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji)
- 2 stalks green onions (scallions)
- A bit of red chili pepper (optional)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 Tbsp sugar
- 1/4 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligosaccharide)
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 Tbsp red pepper flakes
- 1/4 Tbsp sugar
- 1/4 Tbsp corn syrup (or oligosaccharide)
- 1/2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse the Korean pickled cucumbers (Oiji) thoroughly under cold running water. Place them in a bowl and soak in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess saltiness. Removing sufficient salt is key to a delicious result.
Step 2
After soaking, drain the Oiji and slice them into bite-sized pieces (e.g., thinly sliced diagonally about 0.5 cm thick). Then, place the sliced Oiji on a clean cheesecloth or paper towel and squeeze out as much water as possible by pressing down firmly. The more water you squeeze out, the crispier and chewier the Oiji will become.
Step 3
This step emphasizes that the final texture of the Oiji Muchim depends on how well you squeeze out the water in the previous step. Thoroughly draining the water will ensure a delightfully chewy and crisp texture.
Step 4
Wash and finely chop the green onions. Thinly slice the red chili pepper (deseeded if preferred; you can also use green chilies for a spicier kick). Add the prepared Oiji, green onions, and chili pepper to a mixing bowl.
Step 5
Now, add all the seasoning ingredients. Start with 1/2 Tbsp of red pepper flakes to add color.
Step 6
Next, add 1/4 Tbsp of sugar to balance the sweet and tangy flavors.
Step 7
Add 1/4 Tbsp of corn syrup (or oligosaccharide) for a glossy finish and sweetness. You can adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Step 8
Add 1/2 tsp of minced garlic for a classic Korean flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it.
Step 9
Finally, drizzle in 1 tsp of sesame oil for a rich, nutty aroma. This completes the seasoning.
Step 10
Gently mix all the ingredients and seasonings with your hands, ‘jumbled-jumbled’ style, until well combined. Ensure the seasoning coats the Oiji evenly. Your delicious ‘rice thief’ Oiji Muchim is now ready!
Step 11
This Oiji Muchim is incredibly easy to make and a true delight with your rice! It will add a wonderful crunch and savory flavor to your meal. Enjoy your homemade dish!
