Crispy Radish Salad (Musaengchae)
How to Make Refreshingly Crisp Korean Radish Salad
This Korean radish salad, or ‘Musaengchae’, is made with autumn radishes that have been stored. These radishes are naturally sweet and incredibly crunchy, much like fresh fruit, making them perfect for any dish. This recipe highlights their natural sweetness and crisp texture, making it a delightful side dish.
Main Ingredients
- Thinly julienned radish, filling 2/3 of a cold noodle bowl
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 2 pinches of salt
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1/2 Tbsp saeujeot (fermented salted shrimp)
- Sesame seeds, to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, julienne the radish into very thin strips. You’ll want enough to fill about 2/3 of a standard cold noodle bowl. Place the julienned radish in a mixing bowl. Add 1 Tbsp sugar, 2 pinches of salt, and 1 Tbsp vinegar. Gently massage and mix the ingredients into the radish with your hands. This process helps to soften the radish and draw out its natural moisture.
Step 2
After about 10 minutes, the radish should have released a good amount of water. Carefully drain this liquid from the radish, keeping only the radish itself. Squeeze out any excess water gently with your hands; this is key to achieving a crisp texture.
Step 3
To the drained radish, add 1/2 Tbsp of saeujeot (fermented salted shrimp). Mix this in well. The saeujeot will add a wonderful umami depth and enhance the overall flavor of the salad.
Step 4
Now, add 1 Tbsp of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Gently toss and mix everything together until the chili flakes are evenly distributed and the radish is coated in a beautiful red hue. Be careful not to over-mix or mash the radish.
Step 5
If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a little more sugar or rice syrup (oligo-dang) at this stage. For the sesame seeds, crush them lightly between your fingertips before sprinkling them over the salad. This releases their aromatic oils, making them more fragrant. Your delicious and crisp radish salad is now ready to be enjoyed!
