Spicy Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)

Spicy Cucumber Salad, known as Oi Muchim in Korean, is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that combines crisp cucumbers with a spicy, tangy dressing. This banchan (side dish) is a staple in Korean cuisine, offering a delightful contrast to rich and hearty main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This salad is not only quick and easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The combination of crunchy cucumbers and a spicy, savory dressing makes it an excellent accompaniment to various dishes. Its lightness and freshness provide a perfect balance to grilled meats or rice dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Ingredients

• 1 English cucumber or 2 to 3 Kirby cucumbers, washed
• ¼ cup thinly sliced onion
• 1 green onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons Korean hot pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Slice the cucumber lengthwise in half, then cut diagonally into thin slices.​Maangchi+1Chef Chris Cho+1
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sliced cucumber, onion, green onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, gochugaru, sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, and sugar (if using).​Chef Chris Cho+6Maangchi+6Street Smart Nutrition+6
3. Mix Thoroughly: Toss all the ingredients well until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the seasoning.​Kimchimari+5Reddit+5The Foodie Takes Flight+5
4. Serve: Enjoy immediately as a side dish to complement rice, noodles, or grilled meats.​Kimchimari+4Maangchi+4Christie at Home+4

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4​
• Prep Time: 5 minutes​Christie at Home+1Kimchimari+1
• Total Time: 5 minutes​My Korean Kitchen+3Kimchimari+3Christie at Home+3

Variations

• Adjusting Spice Level: Modify the amount of gochugaru to control the heat according to your preference.​The Foodie Takes Flight+10What Great Grandma Ate+10Christie at Home+10
• Additional Vegetables: Incorporate thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers for added crunch and color.​Cinnamon Snail
• Vinegar Addition: A teaspoon of rice vinegar can be added for a tangier flavor profile.​What Great Grandma Ate+1Cinnamon Snail+1

Storage/Reheating

This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers may release water over time, slightly diluting the flavors. It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the texture of the cucumbers will become soggy upon thawing.​What Great Grandma Ate

FAQs

What type of cucumber is best for Oi Muchim?

English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers are preferred due to their crisp texture and minimal seeds.​My Korean Kitchen+2Cinnamon Snail+2Maangchi+2

Can I make Oi Muchim ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and crunch.​Street Smart Nutrition

Is Oi Muchim very spicy?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of gochugaru used.​Cinnamon Snail+8What Great Grandma Ate+8Street Smart Nutrition+8

Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely, adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and texture.​

How do I prevent the salad from becoming too watery?

Salting the cucumber slices and letting them sit before mixing with other ingredients helps draw out excess moisture.​

What dishes pair well with Oi Muchim?

It pairs excellently with grilled meats, rice dishes, and other Korean banchan.​

Can I use regular chili flakes instead of gochugaru?

Gochugaru is recommended for authentic flavor, but in a pinch, other chili flakes can be used, keeping in mind the flavor may differ.​My Korean Kitchen+2Chef Chris Cho+2What Great Grandma Ate+2

Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, Oi Muchim is vegetarian-friendly.​

Can I add protein to this salad?

While traditionally a side dish, adding proteins like tofu can make it a more substantial dish.​

How long does it take to prepare Oi Muchim?

It takes approximately 5 minutes to prepare.​

Conclusion

Spicy Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) is a flavorful and refreshing dish that adds a spicy kick to any meal. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite in Korean cuisine, perfect for enhancing a variety of dishes with its crisp texture and bold flavors.

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