Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)
User Reviews
4.6
Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)
Description
Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad) begins with thinly sliced pickling cucumbers gently salted to draw out moisture without bruising. After draining excess liquid, the cucumbers are combined with gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes), minced garlic, chopped scallions, vinegar, sugar, sesame seeds, and sesame oil. This mixture creates a fresh and spicy salad with a clean, bright flavor.
The texture is crisp and juicy from the cucumbers, while the seasoning provides a balance of heat and tanginess with a slight sweetness. The sesame seeds and oil add a subtle nutty aroma and finish.
Oi Muchim is usually served as a banchan (side dish) in Korean cuisine and pairs especially well with grilled or fried dishes, adding a refreshing contrast.
Ingredients
- 1 cucumber pickling cucumbers, Korean cucumber or 2 Kirby cucumbers
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru gochugaru (고추가루) - use less if desired, Korean red chili pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon scallion chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Thinly slice the cucumber (1/8 to 1/4-inch thick). Toss gently with salt and set aside for about 15 minutes.
- Drain excess liquid. Avoid squeezing them because they will bruise. Mix well with all of the remaining ingredients. Taste a little and adjust the seasonings if necessary.