Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium-sized cucumbers, peeled and sliced thinly
- 4 cups of water
- 1/4 cup of vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds
Special equipment needed:
- None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mix together water, vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, salt, and black pepper until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and mix well.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Once the cucumbers are chilled, add chopped scallions, cilantro, sesame oil, and sesame seeds to the bowl and mix well.
5. Serve the cucumber naengguk in individual bowls.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: None
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 50
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Rice vinegar can be used instead of regular vinegar.
- Honey or agave syrup can be used instead of sugar.
- Chopped parsley can be used instead of cilantro.
- Toasted pumpkin seeds can be used instead of sesame seeds.
Variations:
- Add sliced radishes or carrots for extra crunch.
- Use Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) for a spicy version.
- Add cooked noodles for a more filling meal.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers thinly.
- Make sure to mix the cucumbers well with the marinade to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your liking.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover cucumber naengguk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
- None needed, serve chilled.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the cucumber naengguk in individual bowls and garnish with extra sesame seeds and cilantro.
Garnishes:
- Sesame seeds
- Cilantro
- Sliced radishes
- Sliced carrots
Pairings:
- Korean BBQ
- Grilled chicken
- Tofu stir-fry
Suggested side dishes:
- Kimchi
- Steamed rice
- Pickled vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the cucumber naengguk is too sour, add a bit more sugar to balance the flavors.
- If the cucumbers are too salty, rinse them under cold water before adding them to the marinade.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before preparing the recipe.
- Store the cucumber naengguk in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Naengguk is a traditional Korean cold soup that is typically served during the summer months.
Flavor profiles:
- Tangy, sweet, salty, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the cucumber naengguk as a refreshing appetizer or a light meal.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: Korean
Taste: Refreshing, Tangy, Sour, Savory, Herbal