Oi Muchim (Spicy Cucumber Salad)

Crisp, cool, and spicy—Oi Muchim is a quick Korean cucumber salad bursting with summer freshness. It’s perfect as a banchan (side dish) or as a light bite on its own.

Ingredients:

• 2 Korean cucumbers or 1 English cucumber
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Slice cucumbers and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess water.
2. In a bowl, mix gochugaru, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Toss cucumbers in the mixture until well coated.
4. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

Suggested Pairing:

Pair Oi Muchim with grilled meats, rice, or as a topping for cold noodles. Serve with iced green tea or makgeolli (Korean rice wine).