Crispy Bamboo Shoot and Cucumber Salad
Crispy Bamboo Shoot and Cucumber Salad
Crunchy and Refreshing! Bamboo Shoot and Cucumber Salad
I visited a neighbor’s grandfather’s treasure farm and was fascinated by the bamboo shoots growing in the back. I brought a few home and decided to make a sweet and sour salad with cucumbers. This recipe brings the fresh crunch of bamboo shoots and the coolness of cucumbers together in a delightful way.
Ingredients- 400g bamboo shoots (about 14 oz, after preparation)
- 1 cucumber (medium size)
- 1 onion (medium size)
- 4 Tbsp gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 3 Tbsp acacia fermented liquid (or plum extract)
- 3 Tbsp pineapple vinegar (or regular vinegar)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Carefully peel the outer layers of the fresh bamboo shoots, keeping only the tender inner part. Cut them lengthwise into bite-sized pieces (about 5cm or 2 inches long). Bring a pot of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the prepared bamboo shoots and boil until tender (approximately 15-20 minutes).
Step 2
Once boiled, rinse the bamboo shoots under cold running water to cool them down. It’s crucial to soak the bamboo shoots in cold water to remove any bitterness. Soaking for at least 2-3 hours, or even overnight, is recommended for the best results. After soaking, drain them thoroughly in a colander.
Step 3
Wash the cucumber well, scrubbing the skin with coarse salt to remove any impurities and enhance its crispness. Slice the cucumber thinly, about 0.5cm thick, in a slightly diagonal or rough cut. Peel the onion and slice it into fine julienne strips.
Step 4
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained bamboo shoots, sliced cucumber, and julienned onion. Add the gochujang (4 Tbsp), acacia fermented liquid (3 Tbsp), pineapple vinegar (3 Tbsp) for a sweet and sour tang, and minced garlic (1 Tbsp) for aromatic flavor.
Step 5
Using your hands, gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to mash the ingredients; a gentle toss is key. Finally, sprinkle with sesame seeds for a nutty finish. Your delicious bamboo shoot and cucumber salad is ready! It boasts a wonderfully crisp texture and a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it a fantastic side dish or even a light meal.
