Among the treasures of this season, the Korean radish, known as mu (or moo), takes a spotlight in kitchens across the country. This humble ingredient, with its firm flesh and delicate flavor, transforms beautifully into a variety of delightful dishes. Today, we’re diving into the making of Spicy Radish Salad Musaengchae (무생채), a spicy Korean radish salad that stands as a testament to the simplicity and depth of Korean cuisine.
Growing up, the vibrant hue of this dish always excited my senses, signaling cozy family dinners and Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi, Oven Baked Korean Pork Belly or hearty bibimbap bowls. Musaengchae’s unmatched crunch and the perfect balance of spice and sweetness make it a beloved staple. This dish is designed to be straightforward yet flavorful, making it an excellent option when you’re short on time but don’t want to compromise on taste.
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What is Spicy Radish Salad (Musaengchae)?
Musaengchae is a type of saengchae (생채), or uncooked vegetable dish, that features the Korean radish as its star ingredient. Here’s some more official definition, from Wikipedia –
Saengchae (생채) is a kind of Korean salad generally consisting of uncooked mixed seasonal vegetables such as radishes and other ingredients such as chicken or jellyfish.
WiKIPEDIA.ORG
There are various versions of this salad, ranging from non-spicy to sweet and sour. The spicy variation, however, is the most popular, often likened to fresh kimchi but without the fermentation process. Not only is it a quick alternative to kimchi, but it also pairs exceptionally well with dishes like bossam (boiled pork wrapped in salted napa cabbage) and is a vibrant addition to bibimbap.
Is Spicy Radish Salad Healthy?
- Rich in Nutrients: Korean radish is packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are crucial for a healthy immune system, digestive health, and overall well-being.
- Low in Calories: This dish is low in calories, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
- Digestive Benefits: The high fiber content in radish aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
- Boosts Immunity: The antioxidants and vitamins in the spicy seasonings like garlic and ginger strengthen the immune system.
Chef’s Notes – Spicy Radish Salad
- Quality Radishes: Choose firm and heavy Korean radishes with smooth, unblemished skin. They should feel dense and full of moisture.
- Julienning the Radish: The most time-consuming part is cutting the radish into matchsticks. A mandolin slicer can speed up the process and ensure uniform pieces, which helps the salad absorb the seasoning evenly.
- Salting for Crunch: Salting the radish draws out excess moisture, enhancing its natural crunch. This step is optional but highly recommended for the best texture.
- Balancing Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add more sugar for sweetness or a splash of vinegar for a tangy kick. The fish sauce adds depth, but it can be substituted with soy sauce for a vegan option.
Spicy Korean Radish Salad
4
servings15
minutes5
minutes50
kcal20
minutes40
minutesDive into the vibrant flavors of Korea with this Spicy Korean Radish Salad! Perfect as a quick kimchi substitute or a delightful addition to bibimbap, this dish is a must-try. Fresh, crunchy radish combined with spicy gochugaru and aromatic garlic will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will bring a burst of Korean cuisine to your table.
Ingredients
- Radish Base
1 pound Korean radish (mu), cleaned and cut into matchsticks (about ⅛ to 1/4-inch thick)
1 tsp salt
- Seasoning Mix
2 tbsp Korean red chili pepper flakes (gochugaru), adjust to taste
2 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp freshly grated ginger
1 tbsp fish sauce (or use salted shrimp for variation)
1 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)
- Garnish
1 or 2 scallions, finely chopped
1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Alternative Ingredients
Fish Sauce: Replace with soy sauce for a vegan option.
Korean Radish: Substitute with daikon if Korean radish is unavailable.
Sugar: Use honey or agave syrup as a natural sweetener.
Directions
- Prepare Radish – Clean the radish thoroughly by scrubbing with a brush or using a small knife to remove impurities. Peel only if necessary. Cut the radish into matchsticks about ⅛ to 1/4-inch thick.
- Salt Radish – Sprinkle the salt over the radish sticks and toss well to ensure even coating. Let it sit for about 20 minutes until the radish softens and releases some liquid. Drain the excess liquid but do not rinse.
- Mix Seasoning – In a mixing bowl, combine the gochugaru, minced garlic, grated ginger, fish sauce (or salted shrimp), and sugar. Mix well by hand until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Combine Ingredients – Add the seasoned mixture to the salted radish and mix thoroughly by hand. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or fish sauce if needed.
- Final Touches – Add the finely chopped scallions and sesame seeds to the radish mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- mandoline slicer
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 50kcal
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Potassium: 200mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 10IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ – Spicy Radish Salad
What to do with spicy radishes?
Spicy radishes can be used in various dishes. They can be pickled, incorporated into salads like musaengchae, or used as a condiment for sandwiches and tacos. Spicy radish slices can also be added to stews and soups for an extra kick. If they are too spicy to eat raw, try roasting or grilling them to mellow the heat.
What is the difference between a Korean radish and a regular radish?
Korean radishes, also known as mu, are larger, denser, and have a milder, sweeter taste compared to regular radishes, which are smaller, spicier, and have a more pungent flavor. Korean radishes are white with a green tinge at the top, while regular radishes are usually red-skinned with white flesh.
Why are my radishes spicy to eat?
Radishes can taste spicy due to the presence of natural compounds called glucosinolates, which break down into pungent, spicy compounds. Stress conditions like hot weather can increase these compounds, making the radishes more pungent.
What do Koreans eat pickled radish with?
Koreans enjoy pickled radish as a side dish with various meals. It’s commonly served with Korean fried chicken, barbecued meats, and kimbap (Korean sushi rolls). Pickled radish also pairs well with dishes like samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly) and savory pancakes.
Can I use daikon radish instead of Korean radish for Musaengchae?
Yes, you can use daikon radish as a substitute for Korean radish in Musaengchae. While Korean radish has a slightly different texture and taste, daikon is a close alternative that works well in the recipe.
How do you store Korean radish to keep it fresh?
Store Korean radish in a cool, dry place. If you need to keep it for longer periods, wrap it in a damp paper towel and store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. It can last several weeks when stored properly.
Is skinning a Korean radish necessary for Musaengchae?
It’s not always necessary to peel Korean radish for Musaengchae. If the skin is smooth and free from blemishes, you can scrub it clean and leave the skin on, which adds extra nutrients and texture to the dish.
What are some health benefits of eating radish?
Radishes are low in calories and high in nutrients, including vitamin C, which boosts immunity; potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure; and fiber, which aids in digestion. They also possess antioxidant properties that can help protect against certain diseases.
Can I make a non-spicy version of Musaengchae?
Yes, a non-spicy version of Musaengchae can be made by omitting the gochugaru (red chili pepper flakes). You can season it with vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a bit of soy sauce to make a sweet and tangy radish salad.
What other Korean dishes can I make using Korean radish?
Besides Musaengchae, you can make several delicious dishes using Korean radish such as Kkakdugi (cubed radish kimchi), Muguk (radish soup), and Munamul (stir-fried radish). It can also be used in dishes like bin dae tteok (mung bean pancakes) and baechu kimchi (napa cabbage kimchi).
Other Korean side dishes you might like
Korean Spinach Banchan
Cooks in 15 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the world of Korean cuisine with this delightful spinach banchan! This simple yet flavorful side dish is a staple in Korean meals, perfect for adding a nutritious and tasty touch to your table. Blanched spinach is seasoned with a mix of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce, or spiced up with gochujang for a kick. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. Try it today and bring a taste of Korea to your home!
Korean Stir-Fried Zucchini
Cooks in 15 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the flavors of Korea with this simple, yet delicious Stir-Fried Zucchini! Perfect for summer, this dish pairs wonderfully with any Korean meal, especially meat dishes like bulgogi or galbi. It’s also a fantastic addition to bibimbap. Whether you’re using Korean zucchinis or any variety you have on hand, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Spicy and Mild Soybean Sprout Salad
Cooks in 20 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the delightful crunch of this Spicy and Mild Soybean Sprout Salad! Perfect as a side dish, this Korean classic brings a nutty flavor with a choice of mild or spicy seasoning. Whether you’re looking to add a kick to your meal or keep it simple, this versatile dish is a must-try. Follow these easy steps to create a healthy, delicious addition to your table.
