Are you craving a refreshing dish with a kick of Korean flavors? Look no further than our delicious Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad recipe. This easy-to-make side dish is perfect for adding a zesty touch to your meals. The combination of crisp cucumbers, spicy gochugaru, and aromatic sesame seeds creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Let’s get started on preparing this delightful dish!
**Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 medium English cucumbers
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon fish sauce for extra umami flavor
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Using a sharp knife, gently score the cucumbers lengthwise. This will help the flavors to penetrate the cucumbers more deeply.
3. Cut the cucumbers into thin slices, about 1/8 inch in thickness. You can also use a mandoline slicer for even, uniform cuts.
4. Place the cucumber slices in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle a generous pinch of salt over the cucumbers and let them sit for about 10 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, gochugaru, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and fish sauce (if using). Mix well until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are well combined.
6. After 10 minutes, gently squeeze the cucumber slices to remove excess water. Discard the liquid.
7. Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumber slices. Add the toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
8. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are well coated with the dressing.
9. Taste a cucumber slice and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or sugar.
10. Allow the salad to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
11. Before serving, give the salad a final toss to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with extra sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
12. Serve the Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad chilled as a side dish or a refreshing appetizer.
This Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad is the perfect dish to elevate any meal with its vibrant flavors and crunchy texture. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or a cozy indoor gathering, this salad is a delightful addition to your table. The balance of heat from the chili flakes, acidity from the vinegar, and nuttiness from the sesame seeds creates a harmonious blend that will leave your guests impressed.
Enjoy this Korean-inspired recipe as a refreshing accompaniment to grilled meats, rice dishes, or even as a topping for tacos for a fusion twist. Embrace the flavors of Korea in your own home with this easy and flavorful cucumber salad. Let this zesty dish brighten up your day and add a touch of Korean flair to your culinary repertoire.
