Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad, or Oi Muchim, is a refreshing and flavorful side dish that adds a punch of heat and tang to any meal. Made with crisp cucumbers, gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), and a savory dressing, this dish is quick to prepare and bursting with bold flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes with minimal ingredients.
- Refreshing & Crunchy – Perfect for hot weather or as a cooling side dish.
- Bold & Spicy – A flavorful balance of spice, tanginess, and umami.
- Pairs Well with Many Dishes – Complements grilled meats, rice dishes, and Korean BBQ.
- Customizable – Easily adjust spice levels or add other ingredients to suit your taste.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Korean or Persian cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
- Salt
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- Sesame oil
- Sugar
- Garlic, minced
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Scallion, chopped
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Salt the Cucumbers – Sprinkle salt over the cucumber slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess moisture and enhances their crunch. Rinse and drain well.
- Make the Dressing – In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, gochugaru, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Toss & Combine – Add the drained cucumbers and chopped scallions to the dressing. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
- Garnish & Serve – Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds and fresh cilantro. Serve immediately or chill for a more refreshing taste.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Less Spicy Version – Reduce the gochugaru or omit it for a milder flavor.
- Sweeter Option – Add a little more sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Extra Crunch – Include thinly sliced carrots or radish.
- Soy-Free Alternative – Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Nutty Twist – Add crushed peanuts or extra sesame seeds for more texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers will soften over time but remain flavorful.
- Reheating – This dish is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it may alter the texture of the cucumbers.
FAQs
How spicy is this Korean cucumber salad?
The spice level depends on the amount of gochugaru used. You can adjust it to your preference.
Can I use regular cucumbers instead of Korean or Persian cucumbers?
Yes, but remove the seeds and slice them thinly for the best texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best eaten fresh. If making ahead, store it in the fridge and consume it within a day for the best crunch.
What dishes pair well with this cucumber salad?
It goes well with Korean BBQ, bibimbap, grilled meats, rice dishes, and even as a topping for noodle bowls.
Can I add other vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Thinly sliced carrots, radishes, or bell peppers add extra crunch and color.
What can I substitute for gochugaru?
You can use red pepper flakes, paprika, or a small amount of cayenne pepper, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
Why do I need to salt the cucumbers first?
Salting helps remove excess moisture, making the cucumbers crispier and preventing the salad from becoming too watery.
How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for about 2 days, though the cucumbers will soften over time.
Can I use rice wine vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Yes, but rice wine vinegar is slightly sweeter, so you may need to adjust the sugar accordingly.
Conclusion
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim) is a quick, flavorful, and refreshing dish that adds a spicy kick to any meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on its own, its crisp texture and bold seasoning make it a must-try. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy a taste of Korea at home!
