Crispy Cucumber and Chewy Dried Squid Salad: An Easy Recipe
Crispy Cucumber and Chewy Dried Squid Salad: An Easy Recipe
Cucumber and Dried Squid Salad
Experience the delightful harmony of crisp, refreshing cucumbers and chewy, tender dried squid in this easy-to-make salad. It’s a perfect side dish that will have you reaching for more rice – a true ‘rice thief’! Let’s make this simple yet flavorful cucumber and dried squid salad together.
Cucumber and Dried Squid Salad Ingredients- 1 cucumber
- 1/3 Tbsp salt (for salting cucumber)
- 200g dried shredded squid (jinmi-chae)
- Plenty of hot water (for rehydrating squid)
- 3 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 3 Tbsp corn syrup (or other liquid sweetener)
- 3 Tbsp sesame oil
- 3 Tbsp red chili paste (gochujang)
- 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
- Plenty of sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the cucumber thoroughly and pat it dry. Slice it thinly on a bias, about 0.5cm thick. Add 1/3 Tbsp of salt to the sliced cucumber and gently massage it in. Let it sit for 5 minutes to draw out excess moisture, which will make the cucumber extra crisp.
Step 2
After 5 minutes, rinse the salted cucumber briefly under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, firmly squeeze out as much water as possible with your hands. Place the squeezed cucumber into a bowl. Properly draining the cucumber is key to preventing a watery and bland final dish.
Step 3
Cut the 200g of dried shredded squid into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3cm long. Place the cut squid in a bowl and pour enough hot water over it to cover. Let it soak for about 2-3 minutes. This process softens the squid, making it wonderfully chewy. Drain the rehydrated squid well using a sieve.
Step 4
Now, transfer both the well-drained cucumber and the softened dried squid into a large mixing bowl. These are the main components ready to be tossed with the flavorful dressing.
Step 5
Add all the seasoning ingredients to the bowl: 3 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 3 Tbsp corn syrup, 3 Tbsp sesame oil, 3 Tbsp red chili paste (gochujang), and 2 Tbsp mayonnaise. This combination creates a perfect balance of sweet, savory, spicy, and creamy flavors.
Step 6
With all the ingredients and seasonings in the bowl, gently mix everything together using your hands or a spatula. Be careful not to overmix or mash the cucumber, ensuring that each piece of cucumber and squid is evenly coated with the delicious sauce.
Step 7
Transfer the beautifully mixed cucumber and dried squid salad to a serving plate. The vibrant colors and appetizing appearance are sure to whet your appetite!
Step 8
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds over the top for an extra touch of flavor and aroma. Your super easy cucumber and dried squid salad is ready! Enjoy this delicious ‘rice thief’ side dish with your meal. It’s truly delightful!
