Tenderized Cucumber Salad (Oi Tang-Tangi)
Tenderized Cucumber Salad (Oi Tang-Tangi)
How to Make Tenderized Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim, Oi Salad)
Experience a unique twist on traditional cucumber salad! This ‘Oi Tang-Tangi’ features cucumbers tenderized by gently pounding them with a rolling pin or mallet, creating a delightful texture. After a thorough wash with coarse salt, the cucumbers are seasoned with a balanced blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors, making it a refreshing side dish or appetizer. Perfect for any meal! (Tablespoon measurement based on Korean rice spoon)
Main Ingredients for Oi Tang-Tangi- 2 Cucumbers (approx. 332g)
- 2 Tbsp Vinegar
- 0.7 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- 0.2 Tbsp Salt
- 0.6 Tbsp Fish Sauce (e.g., Kkanari)
- 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
- Sesame Seeds for garnish
For Washing Cucumbers- Approx. 2 Tbsp Coarse Salt
- Approx. 2 Tbsp Coarse Salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Start by thoroughly washing your cucumbers. Wearing rubber gloves, rub the cucumbers generously with coarse salt. This helps to clean the skin effectively, especially in any crevices. Rinse them well under cold running water afterwards.
Step 2
After washing, pat the cucumbers completely dry with a paper towel. Trim off both ends of each cucumber.
Step 3
Now for the signature step: gently pound the cucumbers. Place them on a cutting board and use a rolling pin or mallet. Avoid hitting too hard; a series of light taps will help the cucumber split nicely in half and develop a more tender texture. You can leave them split in half for now.
Step 4
Cut the pounded cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. You can slice them as you would for a typical cucumber salad, or for an even softer texture, give them another gentle tap with the mallet after slicing.
Step 5
Transfer the prepared cucumbers to a large bowl. Add all the seasoning ingredients: 0.7 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp brown sugar, 2 Tbsp vinegar for that refreshing tang, 0.6 Tbsp fish sauce for umami, and 0.2 Tbsp salt for basic seasoning.
Step 6
Gently mix the cucumbers with the seasonings using a spoon or your hands. Ensure everything is evenly distributed. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You can add a little more vinegar, sugar, salt, or fish sauce if needed.
Step 7
Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of sesame seeds over the salad for a nutty aroma and visual appeal. Your delicious Oi Tang-Tangi (Tenderized Cucumber Salad) is now complete and ready to be enjoyed!
