Best Easy Choy Sum Recipe Korean: A Delightful Side Dish
Choy Sum, also known as Chinese flowering cabbage, is a popular leafy green vegetable that is widely used in Asian cuisine. With its tender stems and vibrant green leaves, Choy Sum makes for a delightful addition to any meal. One of the most delicious ways to prepare this vegetable is by using a Korean recipe that infuses it with bold flavors and spices. In this article, we will explore the best and easiest Choy Sum recipe Korean style, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of Choy Sum
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash the Choy Sum thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the tough ends of the stems and discard.
2. In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the Choy Sum for about 1 minute until it turns bright green and the stems become slightly tender.
3. Remove the Choy Sum from the boiling water and immediately transfer it to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. This will help retain its vibrant green color.
4. Drain the Choy Sum and gently squeeze out any excess water.
5. Heat a pan over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Add the blanched Choy Sum to the pan and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until it is coated evenly with the garlic-infused oil.
7. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, gochugaru, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Pour this sauce over the Choy Sum and continue stir-frying for another minute until the flavors are well combined.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or sugar according to your preference.
9. Once the Choy Sum is cooked to your desired tenderness, remove it from the heat and transfer it to a serving dish.
This Korean-style Choy Sum can be served as a side dish alongside steamed rice and other Korean dishes. Its slightly spicy and savory flavors make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats or a comforting bowl of bibimbap.
Now, let’s answer some common questions about this delicious recipe:
Q1. Can I use other leafy greens instead of Choy Sum?
A1. Yes, you can substitute Choy Sum with other leafy greens like bok choy or spinach.
Q2. Can I omit the gochugaru if I don’t like spicy food?
A2. Absolutely! Feel free to skip the gochugaru or reduce the amount if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q3. Can I use regular red pepper flakes instead of gochugaru?
A3. While gochugaru has a unique flavor, regular red pepper flakes can be used as a substitute.
Q4. Can I use vegetable oil instead of sesame oil?
A4. Sesame oil adds a distinct nutty flavor, but if you don’t have it, vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
Q5. Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
A5. Definitely! You can experiment by adding sliced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Q6. Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A6. Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you ensure the ingredients you use are vegetarian.
Q7. Can I make this recipe vegan?
A7. Yes, simply replace the honey with a plant-based sweetener like agave syrup or maple syrup.
Q8. How long does it take to make this dish?
A8. This recipe can be prepared in less than 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy side dish option.
Q9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A9. While it is best to consume the Choy Sum immediately after cooking, you can prepare the blanched Choy Sum ahead of time and stir-fry it just before serving to save time.
In conclusion, this Korean-style Choy Sum recipe is a fantastic way to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your meals. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, it is sure to become a favorite side dish among your family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy the delightful taste of Korean cuisine!