Spicy Korean Red Pepper Cucumbers Recipes

SIMPLE SPICY KOREAN HOT RED PEPPER PASTE DIP FOR CUCUMBERS

Steps:

• Combine red pepper paste, sesame oil and sesame seeds.
• Enjoy with fresh cucumbers or other vegetables.

OI MUCHIM

Steps:

• Toss the cucumber with the red pepper flakes, sugar and salt in a medium bowl until well combined. Cover with plastic wrap and let "cure" at room temperature, tossing halfway through, until the cucumber has softened and released some liquid, about 30 minutes. Transfer to a colander and drain well (do not rinse).
• Whisk together the rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, fish sauce and garlic until combined. Pour over the cucumber mixture, add the sesame seeds and toss until well combined. Enjoy immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

SPICY MARINATED CUCUMBERS (OEE MUCHIM)

Steps:

• Brine cucumbers: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to cut the cucumbers into ⅓-inch rounds. Place in a colander fitted over a bowl and add salt; mix well to ensure the cucumbers are evenly salted. Let rest at room temperature to drain, 20 minutes. While they drain, prepare the marinade (Step 2).
• Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the gochugaru, mirin, rice vinegar, sugar, and fish sauce. Smash and peel the garlic, then finely chop. Use the flat part of your knife to press down on the garlic to further break it down, then continue to mince. Add the garlic to the marinade.
• Marinate cucumbers: Rinse all the salt off the cucumbers with cold water. Whisk the marinade, then add the cucumbers; use a large spoon to toss, making sure the cucumbers are evenly coated with marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour.
• Cucumbers will have released more liquid, which helps the marinating process. At this point, they're ready to eat; however, refrigerating overnight will round out the flavors. Place the cucumbers, along with some marinade, in a lidded container and store in the fridge overnight; serve cold. (The cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, or for as long as the cucumbers remain firm and crunchy.)

SPICY KOREAN CUCUMBER SALAD

Steps:

• Wash and slice cucumber into 1/4 - 1/8" pieces. Discard ends.
• Spread cucumber slices onto cutting board. Sprinkle with salt and let sit for at least 15 minutes. You should see water start to form on them.
• Meanwhile, mix all other ingredients well in a 1.5 Quart mixing bowl. (Use 1/2 cup Rice Vinegar for small to medium size cucumber, 3/4 for larger one).
• Press cucumber slices with paper towel or cheesecloth to remove water.
• Put cucumbers in bowl and stir so they become coated.
• Let marinate at least 1 hour before serving. Cucumbers may start to become a bit limp, but do not let them get soggy due to the vinegar.
• To store, place cucumbers in a plastic container with only a little liquid, and leave in the refrigerator.
• This recipe serves about 4 for banchan (side dish). Cooking time is marinating time. Add or subtract ingredients to taste. Try green onion or more garlic.

SPICY KOREAN RED PEPPER CUCUMBERS

Steps:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sesame seeds, and cook until they turn golden brown and begin to pop, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat and place into a large bowl.
• Whisk the kochujang, vinegar, sesame oil, and green onion into the toasted sesame seeds. Stir in the sliced cucumber until well coated with the dressing. Serve either chilled or at room temperature.