Savory and Delicious Deodeok Muchim (Seasoned Deodeok)
Savory and Delicious Deodeok Muchim (Seasoned Deodeok)
How to Make Deodeok Muchim: The Perfect Recipe
Don’t miss out on making a delicious side dish with fresh deodeok (Korean bellflower root) that you can often find at a great price! This recipe highlights the fragrant aroma and satisfying crunch of deodeok, enhanced by a crowd-pleasing sweet and spicy seasoning. We’ve included detailed instructions and tips to make it easy for even beginners to follow.
Main Ingredients- 10 roots of Deodeok (choose ones with fewer fine roots for easier peeling)
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
The first step to a delicious deodeok muchim is choosing the right deodeok! My mother advised that selecting roots with fewer fine roots makes peeling much easier. Pick fresh, firm deodeok.
Step 2
Peeling the Deodeok: The basic method is to gently pull the skin off lengthwise along the root. However, if you’re short on time or want an easier approach, using a vegetable peeler (like a potato peeler) is incredibly effective. Scrape the skin off with the peeler, and it will come away easily. I personally use a peeler all the time.
Step 3
Once the skin is thoroughly removed, lightly rinse the deodeok under running water to clean off any residual dirt.
Step 4
Preparing the Deodeok: If the deodeok roots are very thick, cut them in half or into quarters. Then, use a mortar and pestle, or the back of a knife, to gently pound the deodeok. The goal isn’t to mash it, but to tenderize it slightly by tapping it along the grain. This helps the seasoning penetrate better and improves the texture. Place the prepared deodeok in a mixing bowl.
Step 5
Making the Savory and Tangy Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine gochujang (1.5 Tbsp), sugar (0.5 Tbsp), gochugaru (1.5 Tbsp), oligodang (2 Tbsp), vinegar (4 Tbsp), minced garlic (1 Tbsp), minced scallion (1 Tbsp), and sesame oil (2 Tbsp). Mix everything together well to create the sauce.
Step 6
Mixing the Deodeok and Sauce: Add the prepared sauce to the deodeok in the mixing bowl. Gently toss and mix with your hands, ‘jomul-jomul’ style, until the deodeok is evenly coated. Be careful not to break the delicate texture of the deodeok while mixing. Ensure the seasoning is well distributed.
Step 7
Finishing Touches and Flavor Adjustment Tip: Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top and toss gently once more. Your fragrant and delicious deodeok muchim is ready! If you prefer a sweeter and tangier taste, feel free to add a little more sugar or vinegar to your liking. It makes a perfect side dish for rice!
