Crispy and Savory Seasoned Cucumber Salad Recipe
Appetite Booster! Oiji Muchim to Revive Your Taste Buds
I fondly remember how my mother used to top my plain white rice with this seasoned cucumber dish, Oiji Muchim, whenever I lost my appetite as a child. Perhaps that’s why, even as an adult, Oiji holds a special place in my heart. This Oiji Muchim is guaranteed to bring back your appetite! Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s considered a true rice thief. ~.~
Main Ingredients
- 3 Pickled Cucumbers (Oiji)
Seasoning Ingredients
- Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru, adjust to your preference)
- Sesame Oil (for a nutty aroma!)
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (sprinkle generously)
- Red Pepper Flakes (Gochugaru, adjust to your preference)
- Sesame Oil (for a nutty aroma!)
- Toasted Sesame Seeds (sprinkle generously)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, gently scrub the surface of the pickled cucumbers (Oiji) with a mesh scrubber to remove any rough bumps. Once the surface is smooth, use a knife to trim off the tough ends and the bottom part of each cucumber. Prepare them for the next step.
Step 2
Since pickled cucumbers are quite salty, slice them thinly. Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 20 minutes to reduce the saltiness. Soaking helps make them more palatable for seasoning. You can change the water once during soaking for better results.
Step 3
After soaking, it’s crucial to squeeze out as much water as possible from the cucumbers. While you can squeeze them by hand, it can be quite strenuous and time-consuming. **Pro Tip:** Place the sliced cucumbers on a paper towel or a clean kitchen cloth, roll them up, and then squeeze firmly. This method is much easier and quicker for removing excess water. Ensuring they are well-drained will help the seasoning adhere better and prevent a watery dish.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed-out Oiji with the red pepper flakes (Gochugaru) and a generous drizzle of sesame oil. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes according to how spicy you like your food.
Step 5
Finally, sprinkle a good amount of toasted sesame seeds over the mixture. The sesame seeds add a delightful nutty flavor and enhance the visual appeal of the dish.
Step 6
Now, gently toss and mix everything together with your hands until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the seasoning. Mix well to ensure all the flavors are well distributed throughout the dish.
Step 7
Transfer the perfectly seasoned Oiji Muchim to a serving container. And voilà! You’ve just created a delicious side dish that will surely awaken your appetite. Enjoy it with a bowl of warm rice. This simple yet flavorful dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages!
