Oi Muchim (Cucumber Salad; South Korea)

Delight in the vibrant flavors of Oi Muchim, a Korean cucumber side dish. Crunchy cucumbers meet a symphony of seasonings in this refreshing dish.

Course Salad, Side Dish, Snack

Cuisine Korean

Keyword Cool, Cucumber, Green, Onion, Quick, Salad, Savory, Sesame, Soy, Spicy, Sweet

Prep Time 5

Chill Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings 2 Cups

Cost $7-$10

Equipment

Normal Kitchen Utensils

Ingredients

1 Cucumber Seedless Preferred
2 Tbsp Rice Vinegar
1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
1 Tbsp Sugar
1/2 tsp Gochugaru (Korean Red Chili Powder), Plus More to Taste See Substitutes in Notes
1/4 tsp Sesame Seeds
2 Green Onions
1 Clove Garlic
1/2 tsp Sesame Oil (Optional)

Instructions

Mince the garlic and slice the green onions into 1/8 inch rounds. Slice them diagonally if you want to be fancy.
2 Green Onions, 1 Clove Garlic
Mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic and (optional) sesame oil together in a medium/large bowl until the sugar is dissolved.
1 Tbsp Soy Sauce, 2 Tbsp Rice Vinegar, 1 Tbsp Sugar, 1/2 tsp Sesame Oil
Rinse and slice the cucumber into 1/8 inch rounds and add to the bowl. Add Half the green onions.
1 Cucumber
Mix in the Gochugaru (chili powder) and taste for more.
1/2 tsp Gochugaru (Korean Red Chili Powder), Plus More to Taste
You can either serve the cucumbers right away, or give them at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator to chill and absorb the flavors. I like to give mine 30.
Serve them in the sauce, topped with the sesame seeds and sliced green onions.
1/4 tsp Sesame Seeds

Notes

My go-to substitute for Gochugaru is red chili flakes with a heavy pinch of smoked paprika. You can also try three parts paprika to one part cayenne.

Fun Fact

Oi Muchim is often referred to as a “seasoned cucumber salad,” highlighting its marinated nature. This dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also for your eyes, as the vibrant green of the cucumbers and the colorful specks of seasonings make for a visually appealing dish.

Origins

Originating from Korea, Oi Muchim has captured hearts around the world with its refreshing flavors and satisfying crunch. Its main star is the humble cucumber, which takes center stage in this dish. Sliced thinly, the cucumbers are soaked in a flavorful marinade that infuses them with a perfect blend of sweet, salty, tangy, and spicy elements.

The Beauty of Oi Muchim

One of the standout qualities of Oi Muchim is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a side dish alongside grilled meats, as a topping for rice bowls, or even as a light and healthy snack. The balance of flavors in Oi Muchim makes it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes, adding an extra layer of excitement to your meals.

As you can see with this recipe, Oi Muchim might sound complex, but it’s surprisingly easy to make. It requires just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time. It is also exceptionally customizable at the same time. Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes. If you’re a fan of garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two for an added kick. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability to suit your personal taste.

Conclusion

Oi Muchim is a delightful Korean dish that showcases the magic that can happen when simple ingredients come together. Its ease of preparation, refreshing taste, and adaptability make it a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of Korean cuisine to their culinary repertoire. The cooling effects of cucumber in this salad also make it a great dish for a hot summer day.

_{Some content generated with the help of ChatGPT | OpenAI: https://www.openai.com/}

Oi Muchim (Cucumber Salad; Korea)