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Flat lay of accordion-sliced cucumber salad with garlic chili oil, sesame seeds, and soy-based dressing, served in a bowl with chopsticks.

Korean Cucumber Salad (Oi Muchim)

This spicy Korean cucumber salad, also known as oi muchim, is a quick and easy banchan side dish made with thinly sliced cucumbers. It’s bold, crunchy, and perfect for serving cold alongside rice bowls, grilled mains, or as part of a Korean-inspired meal.
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Course: Salad, Side Dish
Cuisine: Asian
Servings: 2 to 3
Author: Shilpa

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ½ lb cucumbers Persian or English
  • 1 tsp salt

For the Dressing

Instructions

  • Place two chopsticks or skewers on either side of each cucumber. Use a sharp knife to make thin vertical cuts along the cucumber, stopping at the chopsticks to avoid slicing all the way through. Then flip the cucumber and repeat the cuts at a diagonal angle to create an accordion effect.
  • Sprinkle cucumbers with salt and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess moisture. Drain the cucumber and transfer it to a bowl. Fan the cucumbers to open up the layers.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili oil, sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and rice vinegar until the sugar dissolves.
  • Pour the dressing over the accordion cucumbers. Toss gently, making sure it gets between the slices. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve immediately or chill for later.

Notes

  • Use thin-skinned cucumbers for the best texture and flavor. Persian or English cucumbers work great for Asian cucumber recipes.
  • Salting is key. Don’t skip it. This step prevents the salad from becoming watery and helps concentrate flavor.
  • Chili oil brings a deeper, smokier heat compared to traditional gochugaru. If you want to use gochugaru instead, swap the oil for 1-2 teaspoons of flakes.
  • Taste the dressing before tossing and adjust for heat or sweetness.

Nutrition

Calories: 110kcal | Carbohydrates: 6g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Sodium: 1501mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 82IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 24mg | Iron: 0.5mg
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