
Crispy Korean Cucumber Stir-Fry (Gasi Oi Bokkeum)
Crispy Korean Cucumber Stir-Fry (Gasi Oi Bokkeum)
A Deliciously Crunchy and Refreshing Stir-Fried Cucumber Side Dish!
Here’s a delightful Korean side dish made with Gasi Oi (spiny cucumbers), offering a wonderfully crisp and slightly chewy texture. Perfect for a light and healthy addition to any meal!
Main Ingredients- 5 Gasi cucumbers
Seasoning- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Gently scrub the Gasi cucumbers with a soft brush to clean them thoroughly. Rinse under running water while lightly rubbing. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise.
Step 2
After halving the cucumbers, use a spoon to carefully scoop out the seedy interior. Removing the seeds is crucial to prevent the dish from becoming watery and to maintain the crisp texture.
Step 3
Slice the deseeded cucumbers diagonally into pieces that are not too thick, about 0.5 cm (approximately 1/4 inch) in thickness. This shape allows them to cook evenly.
Step 4
Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Gently toss to coat, then let them sit for about 10 minutes to lightly salt. This wilting process helps to draw out excess moisture, enhancing their crispness.
Step 5
Rinse the salted cucumbers once under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, place them in a cheesecloth or a fine mesh bag and squeeze out as much water as possible. Thoroughly draining the cucumbers is key to a good texture.
Step 6
To the well-drained cucumbers, add the finely ground toasted sesame seeds and 1 tablespoon of perilla oil. Gently mix by hand to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed. If the cucumbers taste too salty after salting, add 1 teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavor.
Step 7
Heat a pan over high heat and quickly stir-fry the seasoned cucumbers for just 2-3 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the cucumbers mushy. High heat and a short cooking time are essential for retaining their delightful crunch.
Step 8
Once stir-fried, immediately transfer the Gasi Oi Bokkeum from the pan to a plate to cool down. Once completely cooled, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes for a fantastic side dish that stays fresh and delicious for several days.

