10-Minute Easy Korean Bean Sprout Salad (Sukju Namul)

10-Minute Easy Korean Bean Sprout Salad (Sukju Namul)

Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious side dish to complement your meals? This 10-Minute Easy Korean Bean Sprout Salad, also known as Sukju Namul, is the perfect choice. With its crunchy texture and savory, nutty flavor, this salad is a staple in Korean cuisine and can be prepared in no time. It’s not only a great side dish but also a fantastic addition to bibimbap or as part of a banchan spread.

Ingredients

• 1 lb mung bean sprouts or soy bean sprouts

For the Sauce:

• 4 teaspoons regular soy sauce
• 4 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Prep the Bean Sprouts:
Start by thoroughly rinsing the bean sprouts in a colander under cold water. Wash them at least three times to remove any natural odors. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear, then strain the sprouts to remove excess water.

2. Blanch the Sprouts:
In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the bean sprouts and blanch them for no more than 60 seconds. This brief blanching preserves the sprouts’ crunch while slightly tenderizing them. Immediately strain the sprouts to prevent overcooking.

3. Cool the Sprouts:
After blanching, rinse the sprouts under cold running water until they reach room temperature. This step stops the cooking process and keeps the sprouts crisp. Strain the sprouts again, ensuring as much excess water is removed as possible.

4. Make the Sauce:
In a large bowl, combine the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, toasted sesame seeds, minced garlic, chopped green onion, and salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated, creating a savory and aromatic sauce.

5. Toss and Serve:
Add the strained bean sprouts to the bowl with the sauce. Toss the sprouts thoroughly until they are evenly coated with the sauce. Serve cold as a refreshing side dish and enjoy the simple, yet delicious flavors of Sukju Namul.

Recipe Notes

This Korean Bean Sprout Salad is incredibly versatile. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light snack, or served alongside grilled meats, rice, or noodles. The nutty flavor of the sesame oil combined with the umami-rich soy sauce and fresh garlic makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free (just make sure your soy sauce is gluten-free)!

Nutrition

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Calories: 80 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

This 10-Minute Easy Korean Bean Sprout Salad is a must-try for anyone looking to add a healthy, quick, and flavorful dish to their meal rotation. With minimal ingredients and effort, you can enjoy a taste of Korea in your own home.

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