Fragrant Spring Greens: Easy and Delicious Yu Chae Namul (Canola Greens) Salad
Seasonal Spring Vegetable: Yu Chae Namul – Delicious Beyond Kimchi or Soup!
Spring is here, bringing the delightful aroma of Yu Chae Namul! Experience the refreshing, slightly pungent flavor and tender texture of these vibrant greens. If you usually enjoy them as fresh kimchi (geotjeori) or in a soybean paste stew, try this simple recipe today: lightly blanched and seasoned like spinach namul. Their unique subtly bitter and sweet taste makes them a perfect side dish for any meal.
Main Ingredients
- 200g Yu Chae Namul (Canola Greens)
- 1 small piece of carrot (approx. 20g)
- 10 stalks of scallions (approx. 20g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Introducing Yu Chae Namul, a spring vegetable that’s in season right now. Let’s make a delicious side dish packed with the essence of spring!
Step 2
Fill a wide pot with plenty of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 tablespoon of salt. Salt helps to maintain the vibrant green color and adds a subtle seasoning.
Step 3
Add the washed Yu Chae Namul to the boiling water. Be careful not to overcook it, as it can become mushy.
Step 4
As soon as the greens wilt slightly and the water begins to re-boil, quickly remove them and rinse under cold running water. Rinsing in cold water helps preserve the crisp texture and stops the cooking process.
Step 5
After rinsing, gently squeeze out as much water as possible with your hands. Excess water can make the namul watery and prevent the seasoning from adhering well. Cut the greens into bite-sized pieces, about 5-7 cm long.
Step 6
Thinly julienne the carrot and finely chop the scallions. In a bowl, combine the blanched Yu Chae Namul, julienned carrot, and chopped scallions. Add the seasoning: 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce, 1/2 Tbsp plum extract, and 1 Tbsp sesame oil. Gently mix and massage the ingredients together with your hands until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soup soy sauce or salt if needed. (Tip: For an extra boost of umami, you can add a tiny bit of tuna extract. My homemade soup soy sauce is made with various ingredients, giving it a richer flavor.)
Step 7
Finally, sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty aroma that enhances the flavor. Give it a final light toss, and your fragrant spring Yu Chae Namul salad is ready to enjoy!
