Savory Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad (Masal Kongnamul Muchim)
Savory Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad (Masal Kongnamul Muchim)
A Refreshing and Flavorful Crab Stick and Bean Sprout Salad Recipe
A simple yet delicious side dish that’s perfect for any meal! This crab stick and bean sprout salad, known as ‘Masal Kongnamul Muchim,’ combines the delightful chewiness of crab sticks with the crisp crunch of bean sprouts, offering a wonderful texture and rich flavor. It’s an excellent side for rice or a great addition to your bento box.
Main Ingredients- 1 bag fresh bean sprouts (approx. 300g)
- A handful of chives (approx. 50g)
- 3 sticks of imitation crab meat (e.g., surimi, approx. 100g)
Seasoning- Salt (to taste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse the bean sprouts thoroughly under cold running water. Removing any tails or discolored parts will result in a cleaner taste. Drain them well and set aside.
Step 2
Slice the imitation crab sticks into three pieces each. Then, gently shred them lengthwise along their natural grain. This technique enhances their tender texture and allows them to absorb seasonings better. Cut the chives to a length similar to the shredded crab sticks. (Optional: If using green onions, chop them finely and prepare them as well.)
Step 3
In a pot, add 1 cup (approx. 200ml) of water and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat. Once the water is boiling vigorously, add the prepared bean sprouts. Cover the pot immediately and blanch for exactly 3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the bean sprouts, as they can become mushy; maintaining their crispness is key.
Step 4
Immediately drain the blanched bean sprouts and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool them down. Thoroughly drain them in a colander; excess water can make the final dish watery and bland. Transfer the drained bean sprouts to a mixing bowl. Add the shredded imitation crab sticks and chives (and green onions, if using).
Step 5
Now, add all the seasoning ingredients to the bowl. Include 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Season with salt (or soy sauce, if preferred) to your liking. It’s best to start with a small amount and adjust the taste as you go, rather than adding too much at once.
Step 6
Gently mix all the ingredients and seasonings together with your hands using a ‘jomul-jomul’ motion until everything is well combined. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can crush the bean sprouts. Once the seasoning is evenly distributed, your dish is ready! Serve this delicious side dish, Masal Kongnamul Muchim, beautifully plated.
