Tender and Chewy Bracken Namul
Tender and Chewy Bracken Namul
Spring Delicacy! How to Prepare and Stir-Fry Bracken (Gosari) Namul
Create delicious bracken namul at home, celebrated for its unique texture and abundant nutrients! Raw bracken contains toxins, making proper preparation and boiling absolutely essential. However, when handled correctly, it transforms into a healthy and delightful side dish for everyone, regardless of age. We’ll guide you through the simple yet effective secrets to achieving perfectly tender and chewy bracken namul.
Ingredients- 600g raw bracken (unsalted)
- 10 stalks of green onions
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp perilla oil (deulgireum)
- 3 Tbsp sesame seeds (ground)
- 3 Tbsp salt (1 Tbsp for boiling, 2 Tbsp for stir-frying, adjust to taste at the end)
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse the fresh raw bracken thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Fill a large pot with plenty of water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add the prepared bracken and boil for about 10 minutes. After boiling, rinse the bracken under cold running water 4-5 times to eliminate any bitterness and toxins. Finally, soak the bracken in clean water for 1-2 hours to fully rehydrate and soften it, ensuring all impurities are removed. This step is crucial for detoxifying the bracken and making it tender.
Step 2
Drain the soaked bracken thoroughly using a colander. Gently press out any excess water; this helps the seasoning penetrate better for a more flavorful dish.
Step 3
Wash the green onions and separate the white bulbous ends from the green stalks. Finely chop the white parts and cut the green parts into approximately 3-4 cm lengths. This preparation ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.
Step 4
In a wide pan, combine the drained bracken with 3 tablespoons of perilla oil and 2 tablespoons of salt. Gently toss and mix with your hands to coat the bracken evenly. Ensure every piece is seasoned.
Step 5
Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and the chopped white parts of the green onions to the seasoned bracken. Stir-fry over medium heat until the garlic is fragrant and the white parts of the green onions become slightly translucent. Be careful not to use high heat, as this can cause the bracken to burn.
Step 6
Once the bracken is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated from the pan, stir in 3 tablespoons of ground sesame seeds. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the nutty flavor of the sesame seeds is well incorporated.
Step 7
Taste the namul and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed. It’s best to aim for a balanced flavor rather than making it too salty.
Step 8
Transfer the finished bracken namul to a serving dish. Sprinkle a pinch of sesame seeds on top for garnish. This not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds an extra nutty aroma. Enjoy it with a bowl of warm rice or as a side to other dishes!
