Delicious Bellflower Root Salad (Doraji Muchim)
Delicious Bellflower Root Salad (Doraji Muchim)
How to Make Delicious Bellflower Root Salad: A Bellflower Root Dish Recipe
Bellflower root, known for its benefits to the respiratory system, helps strengthen mucous membranes, relieve coughs and phlegm, reduce fever, and prevent colds. Its saponin content also boosts immunity. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, bellflower root is a truly healthy food. This recipe minimizes its natural bitterness and combines it with a sweet and spicy seasoning for a delightful side dish that everyone can enjoy.
Main Ingredients- 250g bellflower root (doraji)
- 1/2 medium onion
- 1/4 medium carrot
- 1/2 stalk green onion (optional)
- 1 Tbsp coarse salt (for washing)
Spicy & Sweet Seasoning- 2 Tbsp gochujang (red chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (red chili flakes)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 0.2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 Tbsp gochujang (red chili paste)
- 2 Tbsp gochugaru (red chili flakes)
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 0.2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Cut any long or thick pieces of bellflower root into bite-sized portions, about 5-7 cm long. If a piece is very thick, you can cut it in half lengthwise. Using a knife or scissors will make this process easier and more convenient.
Step 2
Bellflower root has a slightly bitter taste due to its saponin content. To effectively reduce this bitterness, add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt and knead the bellflower root gently with your hands. This process helps to mellow out the natural bitterness significantly.
Step 3
After kneading with salt, rinse the bellflower root thoroughly under running water. Then, fill a bowl with fresh cold water and soak the roots for about 20 minutes. This soaking step further removes bitterness, resulting in a cleaner, more pleasant taste.
Step 4
After 20 minutes, drain the bellflower root from the water and give it a quick rinse. Squeeze out as much water as possible by hand. Ensuring most of the water is removed is crucial for the seasoning to adhere well without being watery.
Step 5
Now, let’s make the delicious seasoning! In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp gochujang, 2 Tbsp gochugaru, 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic, 0.2 tsp salt, 2 Tbsp sugar, and 2 Tbsp vinegar. Mix well until you have a flavorful seasoning paste. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and sourness to your preference.
Step 6
Thinly slice the onion and carrot into julienne strips. These thinly sliced vegetables will add a delightful crunch and complement the bellflower root perfectly.
Step 7
Add the julienned onion and carrot, along with the squeezed bellflower root, to the bowl containing the prepared seasoning mixture.
Step 8
Gently toss and mix everything together with your hands. Avoid mixing too vigorously, as this can break down the bellflower root. The key is to ensure the seasoning coats everything evenly. Mix until the ingredients are beautifully coated in the vibrant red seasoning.
Step 9
Finally, drizzle in 1 Tbsp of sesame oil for a rich aroma and nutty flavor. If desired, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. Your delicious bellflower root salad is ready to be enjoyed! This healthy and flavorful side dish is perfect for any meal, especially when you need a boost of appetite.
