Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz. dried somen noodles
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup julienned cucumber
- 1/2 cup julienned red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced scallions
- 2 tbsp. toasted sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 2 tbsp. rice vinegar
- 2 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tbsp. honey
- 1 tbsp. sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. grated ginger
- 1/4 cup water
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cook the somen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water until cool. Set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the gochujang, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and water until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked noodles, julienned carrots, cucumber, red bell pepper, and scallions.
4. Pour the dressing over the noodle mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.
5. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve.
20 minutes
5. Temperature: Cold
Serving size: 4
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 6g
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 650mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Somen noodles can be substituted with soba noodles or spaghetti.
- Gochujang can be substituted with sriracha or red pepper flakes.
- Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Honey can be substituted with maple syrup or agave nectar.
Variations:
- Add cooked shrimp or chicken for extra protein.
- Use different vegetables such as shredded cabbage, bean sprouts, or snow peas.
- Top with sliced avocado or a fried egg for extra creaminess.
Tips and tricks:
- Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store in the fridge until ready to use.
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover noodle salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- This dish is meant to be served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls or on a large platter for sharing.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds and sliced scallions.
Garnishes:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sliced scallions
- Sliced avocado
- Fried egg
Pairings:
- Korean BBQ
- Grilled chicken or shrimp
- Kimchi
Suggested side dishes:
- Steamed rice
- Miso soup
- Edamame
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dressing is too thick, add more water to thin it out.
- If the noodles are too sticky, rinse them under cold water again.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to store leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly before using.
Food history:
- Bibim guksu is a popular Korean dish that translates to "mixed noodles". It is typically served cold and dressed with a spicy sauce.
Flavor profiles:
- Spicy, tangy, nutty, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with chopsticks and a spoon for mixing.
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Region: Korean