Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad – Easy & Refreshing Recipe

Spicy Korean cucumber salad, also known as Oi Muchim, is a vibrant and delicious side dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. This easy-to-make salad combines the freshness of crisp cucumbers with a spicy, savory dressing made from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), sesame oil, and rice vinegar. With its refreshing crunch and perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet notes, this salad is ideal for serving alongside Korean BBQ, grilled meats, or even as a standalone snack. Whether you’re new to Korean cuisine or a seasoned pro, this dish is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

This spicy Korean cucumber salad is the perfect addition to any meal for several reasons:

• Quick and easy: It only takes about 15 minutes to prepare and serves as a great last-minute side dish.
• Healthy and refreshing: Packed with cucumbers, this dish is low in calories and provides a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the flavorful dressing.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spiciness to suit your taste by adding more or less gochugaru, and it’s easy to make larger portions for a crowd.

Ingredients for Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

For this recipe, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create the perfect balance of flavors.

• Cucumbers: Long English or Persian cucumbers are the best choices for this salad. Their thin skin and minimal seeds make them perfect for soaking up the spicy dressing.
• Gochugaru: A Korean red chili pepper flake, gochugaru is what gives the salad its signature heat and vibrant color. It has a medium heat level that is both spicy and aromatic.
• Soy Sauce: A mild, slightly sweet soy sauce (like shoyu) adds a savory depth to the salad.
• Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil enhances the flavor with its nutty richness, making the dressing more complex.
• Rice Vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity and sweetness that balances out the spicy and savory flavors.
• Sugar: A small amount of sugar is used to round out the dish’s flavor and provide subtle sweetness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make the salad a bit different or need to accommodate certain dietary preferences, here are some ideas:

• Garlic: Adding finely chopped garlic can intensify the savory flavors of the dressing.
• Green Onions: Fresh green onions are a great addition for an extra crunch and a mild onion flavor.
• Ginger: Fresh grated ginger can provide a slight zest and aromatic punch to the dish.
• Vegan Soy Sauce: For a vegan-friendly version, use a plant-based soy sauce or tamari.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Making this salad is incredibly simple and quick. Follow these easy steps:

1. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, sesame seeds, rice vinegar, and sugar. Whisk together until the sugar dissolves, and the ingredients are well combined.
2. Chop the cucumbers into ½-inch chunks and add them to the bowl with the dressing.
3. Toss the cucumbers in the dressing, ensuring that each piece is evenly coated.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more soy sauce, gochugaru, or a pinch of salt if desired.
5. Allow the salad to marinate for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together before serving.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cucumber Salad

• Don’t salt the cucumbers initially: If you add salt too early, it will draw moisture out of the cucumbers, making the salad watery. Instead, taste the salad first and then add salt if needed.
• Use fresh cucumbers: If your cucumbers have many seeds, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds to avoid excess moisture.
• Make ahead: This salad can be made up to 2 days in advance, making it a great option for meal prep.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Spicy Korean cucumber salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• Korean BBQ: Serve it as a side dish with grilled meats like kalbi (Korean short ribs) or samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly).
• Rice dishes: It complements rice dishes such as bibimbap or a simple bowl of steamed white rice.
• Noodle dishes: Serve it with cold noodles like bibim guksu (spicy noodles) for a refreshing contrast.

Variations:

• Spicy version: For extra heat, increase the amount of gochugaru or add a sliced fresh chili pepper.
• Sweet version: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, increase the sugar slightly or add a teaspoon of honey.

Seasonal and Health Benefits of Korean Cucumber Salad

This Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is perfect for warmer months when cucumbers are in season. It’s not only refreshing but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. The combination of cucumbers and gochugaru can also help with digestion and provide a boost of antioxidants.

This salad can be a great addition to any health-conscious diet, offering a low-calorie, flavorful dish that complements a variety of meals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a simple, yet flavorful dish that brings a refreshing crunch to any meal. With its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory undertones, it serves as an excellent side dish to Korean BBQ, grilled meats, or even as a light snack. The salad’s ease of preparation and customization make it an ideal recipe for anyone looking to add a vibrant dish to their repertoire. Whether you enjoy a subtle heat or a fiery kick, this Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad can be tailored to suit your preferences. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite!

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