Korean spicy carrot salad, also known as “Korean Spicy Carrots” or “Korean Carrot Salad,” is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that is widely enjoyed in Korean cuisine.
Thinly julienned carrots are the star of this dish, marinated in a spicy dressing that includes gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings. The salad offers a perfect balance of heat, tanginess, and sweetness, making it an enticing and addictive accompaniment to various Korean meals. The carrots absorb the bold flavors of the dressing, resulting in a zesty and refreshing taste.
Here is super simple Korean Spicy Carrot Salad Recipe for you to try.
Korean Spicy Carrots Salad Recipe: What is “julienned” carrots?
Julienne is a culinary term used to describe a specific way of cutting vegetables or other ingredients into long, thin strips or matchstick-like shapes. When you julienne something, you create uniformly sized strips that are typically about 1/8 inch (3 mm) wide and 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long.
To julienne a vegetable like carrots, for example, you would first peel the carrot and then cut it into rectangular or cylindrical shapes. Next, you cut those shapes into thin slices, and finally, you stack the slices and cut them into even, long strips to achieve the julienne cut.
The julienne cut not only enhances the appearance of the ingredients in dishes but also helps to ensure even cooking and consistent texture when used in various recipes, such as salads, stir-fries, and garnishes.
How to make Korean Spicy Carrots Salad
Ingredients:
- 4-5 large carrots(about 1lb), julienned or grated
- 1 tablespoon gochugaru- Korean red pepper flakes
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce(optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon salt(or less, to taste)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the julienned or grated carrots, minced garlic, and sliced green onions (if using).
2. In a separate small bowl, mix together the red pepper flakes, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil. Add sesame seeds, vegetable oil, and salt to taste. Then, stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all the ingredients are combined into a spicy dressing.
3. Pour the spicy dressing over the carrot mixture and toss everything together. Mix until the carrots are evenly coated with the spicy sauce.
4.Let the salad sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. The carrots will absorb the spiciness.
5.If you prefer a milder version, you can serve the Korean Spicy Carrot Salad immediately. However, for the most intense flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before serving.
5. Just before serving, give the salad a quick toss and garnish with additional sesame seeds and sliced green onions, if desired.
Korean Spicy Carrot Salad is a delicious and tangy side dish that pairs well with grilled or roasted meats. It goes great with rice dishes, or as a topping for sandwiches and wraps. Korean Spicy Carrot Salad adds a burst of flavor and a spicy kick to your meal, making it a popular and satisfying dish in Korean cuisine.
Enjoy!
