Yuk Sung (Korean Spicy Cucumber Salad) Recipe: A Refreshing and Flavorful Side Dish
Yuk Sung (육성), also known as Korean spicy cucumber salad, is a vibrant and refreshing side dish that perfectly complements Korean BBQ or any other savory meal. Its simple yet flavorful profile comes from a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and sour elements. This recipe will guide you through creating this delicious and easy-to-make Korean staple.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your needs.
- Cucumbers: 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (Korean cucumbers are ideal, but English cucumbers work well too)
- Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes): 2 tablespoons (adjust to your spice preference)
- Gochujang (Korean Chili Paste): 1 tablespoon (adds depth and umami)
- Rice Vinegar: 2 tablespoons (or to taste, for acidity)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon (or to taste, for balance)
- Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon (for aroma and richness)
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon, toasted (for garnish and added flavor)
- Green Onions: 2 stalks, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. Using a mandoline slicer can ensure consistent thickness, but a sharp knife works perfectly fine. To remove excess water, you can gently salt the cucumbers and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes. Then, squeeze out the excess moisture. This step is crucial for preventing a watery salad.
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Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the gochugaru, gochujang, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You might want more sugar for sweetness or more vinegar for tartness.
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Combine and Marinate: Add the prepared cucumbers to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss to ensure all the cucumbers are evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is essential for the best taste. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Tips for the Best Yuk Sung:
- Cucumber Choice: While Korean cucumbers are preferred for their less watery texture, English cucumbers work well as a substitute. Just be sure to salt and squeeze them to remove excess moisture.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochugaru to control the spiciness. Start with less and add more gradually to your liking.
- Sweetness Balance: The sugar balances the spice and acidity. Adjust the amount based on your preference and the sweetness of your ingredients.
- Freshness is Key: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Make it Ahead: Yuk Sung tastes even better when made ahead and allowed to marinate in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions:
Yuk Sung is a versatile side dish that complements various Korean dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with:
- Korean BBQ: The refreshing coolness of the salad cuts through the richness of the grilled meats.
- Bibimbap: Adds a spicy and crunchy element to the already flavorful bowl.
- Bulgogi: A delicious contrast to the savory and slightly sweet bulgogi.
- Japchae: Provides a contrasting texture and flavor profile to the sweet potato noodles.
This Yuk Sung recipe is a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor and freshness to your next meal. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using #YuksungRecipe #KoreanFood #SpicyCucumberSalad on social media!
