Crispy, Sweet & Tangy Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) Recipe
Crispy, Sweet & Tangy Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) Recipe
Best When Fresh! Quick & Easy Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad Recipe
This refreshing cucumber salad offers a delightful balance of sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors, perfect for whetting your appetite. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a versatile side dish that even beginners can master. Enjoy this Korean classic!
Main Ingredients- 1 cucumber (medium-sized)
- 1/2 onion (medium-sized)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 4-5 Tbsp vinegar (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp coarse sea salt (or regular salt)
- Pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 4-5 Tbsp vinegar (adjust to taste)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp coarse sea salt (or regular salt)
- Pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Hello everyone! Today, I’m sharing a recipe for a sweet and tangy cucumber salad that’s perfect for stimulating your appetite. While a spicy version is also delicious, this tangy salad is truly a delightful treat. It’s a magical side dish that can bring back your appetite when it’s gone!
Step 2
First, wash the cucumber thoroughly. You can leave the peel on, but if it feels too thick or slightly soft, you can gently peel the outer layer with a vegetable peeler. This will help maintain a crispier texture.
Step 3
Peel the onion, wash it clean, and then thinly slice it into julienne strips. Place the sliced onion into the bowl with the cucumber.
Step 4
Now, let’s make the seasoning sauce that will bring the cucumber salad to life! In a small bowl, combine 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 2 Tbsp sugar, 4-5 Tbsp vinegar, 1 Tbsp soy sauce, and 1/2 Tbsp coarse sea salt. Remember, everyone’s taste preferences differ, so this seasoning ratio is a basic guideline. Feel free to adjust the amounts of sugar, vinegar, and salt to perfectly suit your palate. If you like it spicier, you can increase the gochugaru or add some minced chili peppers.
Step 5
Pour all the prepared seasoning sauce over the cucumber and onion in the bowl. Now, using your hands, gently mix everything together, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed and coats the cucumber and onion well. Continue mixing for about 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finally, sprinkle a generous pinch of toasted sesame seeds on top for a delicious finish! Your Oi Muchim is ready.
Step 6
This carefully prepared cucumber salad is best enjoyed immediately after making it! The combination of the fresh, crisp cucumber and the perfectly balanced sweet and tangy dressing is at its peak. If you happen to have leftovers, it’s best to consume them as quickly as possible. As time passes, the cucumber will release water, and the flavors can become diluted, making it less enjoyable than when it’s fresh. We highly recommend eating it all on the same day you make it for the best taste experience. Enjoy!
