Oi-ji Sesame Salad: A Refreshing Summer Side Dish
Oi-ji Sesame Salad: A Refreshing Summer Side Dish
Crispy and Savory Oi-ji Sesame Salad Recipe
When you’re losing your appetite in the hot summer or need a quick side dish, Oi-ji (pickled cucumber) comes to mind! Today, we’re making a unique Oi-ji salad with toasted sesame seeds. The nutty flavor of toasted sesame and the crispiness of Oi-ji create a delightful dish that will have you reaching for more rice. (Note: This recipe utilizes our homemade Oi-ji pickling method @6850784.)
Main Ingredients- 2 Oi-ji (Korean pickled cucumbers)
- 1/4 Green onion
- 1 Korean chili pepper (Cheongyang)
- 1 Red chili pepper
Seasoning- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, slice the Oi-ji thinly, maintaining their shape. If they are too thick, the seasoning won’t penetrate well, and the texture might be compromised.
Step 2
Soak the sliced Oi-ji in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess saltiness. This process reduces the saltiness while preserving their crisp texture.
Step 3
Remove the seeds from the red and Korean chili peppers and finely chop them. If you enjoy a spicier kick, you can leave some seeds in, but for a milder flavor, it’s best to remove them. Chop the green onion similarly.
Step 4
Grind the toasted sesame seeds in a mortar until fine. Grinding them releases a much richer and more intense nutty aroma compared to using whole seeds.
Step 5
Squeeze out excess water from the Oi-ji and place them in a bowl. Add the chopped red chili pepper, Korean chili pepper, and green onion. Squeezing out the water thoroughly is key to preventing a watery salad and ensuring the flavors meld well.
Step 6
Now, add the ground toasted sesame seeds and sesame oil. The sesame oil will add a wonderful fragrance and enhance the overall flavor of the Oi-ji.
Step 7
Gently mix all the ingredients and seasonings together with your hands until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, just ensure everything is evenly coated. This Oi-ji Sesame Salad can be enjoyed immediately, or for an even more refreshing taste, chill it in the refrigerator for a while before serving.
