Ojingeo Muchim is a tantalizing Korean salad made with tender squid, fresh vegetables, and a spicy, tangy dressing that’s perfect for seafood lovers. The combination of flavors – from the crunch of cucumber to the kick of chili – makes this dish both refreshing and satisfying.
This spicy squid salad is perfect for a light lunch, a side dish to accompany grilled meats, or as an appetizer for any gathering. It’s also an ideal way to add more seafood to your diet, with the squid providing a rich source of protein while the vegetables add a fresh, crisp texture.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 medium-sized squid, cleaned and cut into rings
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 red chili pepper, sliced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Directions:
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the squid rings and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn opaque. Drain and set aside.
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In a mixing bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and minced garlic. Stir well to combine.
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Add the cooked squid rings to the bowl along with the cucumber, onion, and chili pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly.
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Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the salad and garnish with fresh cilantro.
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Serve chilled as a refreshing appetizer or side dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 150 kcal | Servings: 2-3 servings
Cultural Significance of Ojingeo Muchim
Ojingeo Muchim is part of a long-standing tradition of Korean seafood dishes, many of which are meant to be served cold or at room temperature. Seafood is an essential component of Korean cuisine, and squid, in particular, plays a prominent role in many dishes. The dish’s “muchim” part refers to a type of Korean salad or side dish that is often dressed with a spicy sauce and served as a side to complement heavier main courses, such as grilled meats or rice-based dishes.
In Korea, dishes like Ojingeo Muchim are enjoyed throughout the year, but they are especially popular in the warmer months, when people look for refreshing, light meals that won’t weigh them down. The contrast of the spicy, tangy sauce with the cool, crisp vegetables and tender squid makes it a perfect dish for hot weather. It’s also a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare in large batches and serves as a unique and flavorful offering at any meal.
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
The core of Ojingeo Muchim is, of course, the squid, which is known for its delicate flavor and firm, yet tender texture when cooked properly. It is quick to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The squid is typically cut into rings or strips, making it easy to incorporate into salads, stir-fries, or stews.
The vegetables in Ojingeo Muchim are just as important as the squid. Thinly sliced cucumber provides a crisp and refreshing contrast to the chewy squid, while the onions bring a slight sweetness and a bit of bite. The addition of fresh chili pepper not only gives the dish an extra kick of heat, but it also adds color and an exciting pop of flavor.
What truly sets Ojingeo Muchim apart is the dressing. The combination of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar creates a sweet, savory, and tangy base that perfectly complements the flavors of the squid and vegetables. The sesame oil adds a nutty richness, while the soy sauce imparts a deep, savory umami flavor that enhances the overall dish. Rice vinegar provides acidity, balancing out the sweetness from the sugar and adding brightness to the salad.
Finally, sesame seeds are sprinkled over the top of the dish to add a slight crunch and a toasted flavor that ties everything together. The fresh cilantro garnish adds an herbal note that refreshes the palate, making each bite a delightful experience.
How to Serve Ojingeo Muchim
Ojingeo Muchim is typically served chilled or at room temperature, making it an ideal dish for hot days when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. Its light, refreshing qualities make it a great addition to any meal, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a more elaborate spread for a gathering. The salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, especially Korean BBQ, where the smoky, rich flavors of the meat are beautifully complemented by the fresh, spicy squid salad.
It can also be served with steamed rice to balance out the flavors and textures. In Korea, many people enjoy this dish as part of a larger spread of banchan, or side dishes, that accompany a main meal. The small, bite-sized servings make it an excellent choice for family-style dining, where everyone can enjoy a bit of each dish.
Ojingeo Muchim can also be enjoyed as a light meal on its own, especially if you’re looking for something quick and easy that still packs a punch in terms of flavor. It’s perfect for those who prefer seafood over heavier meat-based dishes and want something that won’t leave them feeling too full.
Health Benefits of Ojingeo Muchim
One of the reasons Ojingeo Muchim is so beloved is that it is a relatively healthy dish. Squid is a lean source of protein that is low in fat and calories, making it an excellent option for those who are watching their weight or seeking to maintain a balanced diet. It’s also rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, which is important for energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
The vegetables in Ojingeo Muchim, such as cucumber and onion, add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, contributing to digestive health and overall well-being. Cucumber, in particular, is known for its hydrating properties, as it contains a high percentage of water, which helps keep you hydrated and refreshed.
The dressing, made with sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar, also offers some health benefits. Sesame oil is rich in antioxidants and healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated fats, which can help improve cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, the rice vinegar used in the dressing has been linked to a range of health benefits, including improved digestion and blood sugar regulation.
Conclusion
Ojingeo Muchim is a wonderful dish that showcases the flavors of Korean cuisine in a simple yet exciting way. The combination of tender squid, crunchy vegetables, and a spicy, tangy dressing creates a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you’re looking for a new appetizer to impress your guests or a healthy, flavorful dish to enjoy at home, Ojingeo Muchim is a perfect choice. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from casual weeknight dinners to more formal gatherings.
With its balance of flavors, quick preparation, and nutritional benefits, Ojingeo Muchim is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. This dish not only delivers in taste but also in the health benefits it offers, making it a great option for anyone looking to add more seafood and vegetables to their diet. If you haven’t tried Ojingeo Muchim yet, it’s time to give it a go and experience the incredible combination of flavors for yourself.
Enjoy this flavorful, spicy squid salad as part of your next meal and savor the unique, vibrant tastes of Korean cuisine!