Crunchy Bean Sprout and Chive Salad
Crunchy Bean Sprout and Chive Salad
Spring Freshness! Crunchy Bean Sprout and Chive Salad
Introducing a delightful spring specialty, the crunchy Bean Sprout and Chive Salad! Bean sprouts are a popular staple side dish because they are easy to prepare and taste wonderful. Simply wash the bean sprouts, add them to a pot with cold water, and boil – that’s all the prep needed! Adding some lightly blanched fresh chives enhances both the visual appeal with a touch of green and the overall flavor. The combination of crisp bean sprouts and fragrant chives, mixed with a savory seasoning, creates a truly appetizing dish that’s perfect with rice. Try this simple yet delicious spring side dish today!
Ingredients- 500g bean sprouts
- 1/2 bunch chives (cut in half)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 3 Tbsp soup soy sauce (guk-ganjang)
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp plum extract (maesilcheong)
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 white part of a green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Rinse 500g of bean sprouts (from a market bag) under running water once, then place them in a pot. Add enough cold water to fully submerge the bean sprouts.
Step 2
With the lid open, bring the pot to a boil over high heat, starting with the cold water and bean sprouts together. Once the water begins to boil, gently toss the bean sprouts to ensure even cooking while they simmer. (Boil for about 3-4 minutes).
Step 3
When the bean sprouts are almost cooked, add about half a handful of chives, which have been trimmed, washed, and cut in half.
Step 4
Add the prepared chives to the pot with the bean sprouts.
Step 5
Stir gently to combine, then cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, just until the chives are lightly blanched. Be careful not to overcook the chives, as they can become mushy.
Step 6
Drain the cooked bean sprouts and chives into a colander. Immediately rinse them under cold running water to cool them down. Once cooled, squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Thoroughly draining the vegetables ensures the seasoning adheres well without being watery.
Step 7
In a large bowl, combine 1 Tbsp minced garlic, 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 3 Tbsp soup soy sauce, 2 Tbsp sesame oil, 1 Tbsp plum extract, and 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds. Finely slice the white part of the green onion and add it to the bowl. Mix all the seasoning ingredients together to create the dressing.
Step 8
Add the drained bean sprouts and chives to the prepared seasoning. Mix them vigorously, using the strength of your wrists, to ensure the seasoning is thoroughly coated and incorporated into the sprouts and chives. A firm mixing technique is key to achieving that delightful crunch and delicious flavor!
