I’m Nazia, currently working at Food and Meal kitchen. Today, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a culinary journey that’s been close to my heart – the enchanting realm of Spicy Korean Dressing.
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, there’s something extraordinary about finding solace in the kitchen, wouldn’t you agree? As someone constantly surrounded by the aromas of diverse cuisines, I often find myself seeking refuge in the joy of cooking, a sentiment many of us share.
Recently, my culinary endeavors took a delightful turn, leading me to explore the world of Korean cuisine. There’s a mesmerizing dance of flavors, a delicate balance that leaves taste buds tingling and hearts content. And right at the heart of this gustatory adventure lies the incredible Spicy Korean Dressing – a game-changer in every sense.
What sparked my curiosity, you ask? Well, imagine the perfect blend of heat, sweetness, and umami, all coming together to elevate the simplest of dishes. Picture a dressing that doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds but transports you to the vibrant streets of Seoul, where each bite tells a story.
At Food and Meal, we believe in the magic that happens when you bring quality ingredients and passion to the table. The Spicy Korean Dressing recipe I’m about to share isn’t just a list of ingredients and steps; it’s a celebration of the moments that led me to the kitchen, the reasons that made me want to recreate the magic.
Tossed Salad with Shrimp, Noodles, and Spicy Korean Dressing Recipe
TOSSED SALAD WITH SHRIMP, NOODLES, AND SPICY KOREAN DRESSING
Equipment
Ingredients
- 4 to 6 ounces linguine
- 1 ounces medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons gochujang
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon lower-sodium soy sauce
- 4 cups sliced red leaf lettuce, mesclun, or spring mix
- 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1/3 cup matchstick-cut carrots
- 1/ cup broken candied walnuts
Instructions
- Cook the noodles according to the directions on the package. Add the shrimp to the pot 3 minutes before the end of the cooking time. Drain the noodles and shrimp, rinse with cold water, and drain again. Line a colander with paper towels and let the noodles and shrimp drain in it for a few minutes to get rid of any excess water.
- To make the dressing, in a large bowl, combine the brown sugar, lemon juice, gochujang, mayonnaise, and soy sauce and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the noodles, shrimp, lettuce, onion, and carrot to the dressing and toss to combine well.
- To serve, plate the salad onto four plates and top each with some of the candied walnuts.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
© Food And Meal
This website provides approximate nutrition information for convenience and as a courtesy only. Nutrition data is gathered primarily from the Spoonacular Database, whenever available, or otherwise other online calculators.
Cooking Tips
This condiment, more than just an accompaniment, has become a delightful expression of emotions on my taste buds – a harmonious blend of spice, sweetness, and warmth. Through my exploration, I’ve come to appreciate the significance of striking the right balance in the dressing, playing with the proportions of gochujang, honey, and soy sauce until achieving a flavor profile that resonates personally. Quality ingredients, from fresh garlic and ginger to a top-notch sesame oil, have proven instrumental in elevating the overall taste. Patience, too, has become a virtue as I allow the flavors to meld over time, creating a depth that’s truly rewarding. Customization and versatility are at the heart of this culinary experience, allowing me to tailor the dressing to my preferences and experiment with its uses beyond salads. Crafting Spicy Korean Dressing isn’t just a recipe; it’s an infusion of passion and curiosity into each step, resulting in a culinary masterpiece that brings a touch of Korean magic to every dish.
Serving Suggestions
Unleash the vibrant flavors of Spicy Korean Dressing with an array of enticing serving suggestions that promise to elevate your culinary journey. Picture the delightful fusion of spicy allure meeting the rich, savory embrace of Yakimiso Ramen—a symphony of tastes in each slurp. Transform ordinary Soy Sauce Eggs into a quick and flavorful snack by tossing them in this zesty dressing, or infuse Steak Teriyaki with an extra kick, creating a harmonious blend of teriyaki sweetness and fiery heat. Dive into the world of sushi with Vegetable Maki rolls drizzled in Spicy Korean Dressing, offering a surprising twist to the classic flavors. Elevate your comfort food game by adding a spicy makeover to Tonkotsu Ramen, where the rich broth marries seamlessly with the dressing’s flavorful intensity. For a seafood delight, use the dressing as a dipping sauce for crispy Shrimp Tempura, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Glazing Teriyaki Salmon with this dressing before baking introduces a sublime harmony of heat and sweetness. And why not venture into the world of fusion cuisine by adding Spicy Korean Dressing to the filling of your baked empanadas, creating a delightful blend of Korean and Latin flavors in each bite? These serving suggestions promise to make your dining experience a celebration of bold and enticing flavors.
FAQs of Tossed Salad with Shrimp, Noodles, and Spicy Korean Dressing
- What is Korean spicy sauce made of? Korean spicy sauce, commonly known as Gochujang, is made from fermented soybeans, glutinous rice, red chili powder, and salt. This unique combination results in a thick, spicy, and slightly sweet condiment that is a staple in Korean cuisine.
- What is the closest sauce to gochujang? The closest sauce to Gochujang in terms of flavor profile and versatility is a mixture of red miso paste, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes. While it may not replicate Gochujang entirely, this substitute provides a similar umami-rich, salty, and spicy kick.
- What does gochujang taste like? Gochujang boasts a complex flavor profile, offering a combination of sweetness, umami, and a distinctive heat from red chili peppers. Its fermented nature contributes depth and richness, making it a unique and indispensable ingredient in Korean dishes.
- Is gochujang good for you? Yes, Gochujang can be a healthy addition to your diet. It contains probiotics from the fermentation process, providing potential gut health benefits. It also includes essential nutrients like iron, manganese, and vitamins, though it should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium content. Additionally, always check for added sugars in commercially produced Gochujang.
- Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance? Absolutely! While it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the textures, you can definitely prep ahead. Cook the shrimp and noodles, and prepare the dressing in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine just before serving for optimal freshness.
- How Spicy Is the Korean Dressing? The level of spiciness is customizable. The Spicy Korean Dressing does provide a kick, but you can control it. Begin with a small amount of red pepper flakes and adjust according to your heat tolerance. Remember, a little heat can elevate the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Can I Substitute Shrimp with Another Protein? Absolutely! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, consider using grilled chicken slices or pan-seared tofu. The dressing and noodles will harmonize beautifully with these alternatives.
- Is It Possible to Make This Dish Vegetarian? Definitely! Skip the shrimp and experiment with tofu or additional vegetables for a scrumptious vegetarian version. The Spicy Korean Dressing will infuse the dish with bold flavors, ensuring a delightful experience for all palates.
- How Should I Store Leftovers? If you have any leftovers, store the components separately in airtight containers. Keep the shrimp, noodles, and dressing in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and noodles, and then toss them with the dressing before enjoying.
Conclusion
At Food and Meal, we believe in the joy of discovering new tastes and sharing them with the world. The Spicy Korean Dressing, with its customizable spiciness and adaptability, perfectly aligns with our philosophy of bringing people together through the love of food. As you explore the depths of Korean cuisine, we invite you to visit foodandmeal.com for more culinary inspiration, recipes, and a celebration of diverse flavors that unite us all.
May your kitchen continue to be a place of creativity, joy, and connection. Happy cooking, and may every bite be a delightful adventure! 🌶️🥢
Hi! I'm Nazia of ‘Nazia Cooks’, a self-taught baker and cook residing in Chennai. Rooted in the rich South Indian culinary landscape, my palate has expanded to embrace global flavors. I revel in crafting fusion dishes, melding traditions to birth unique tastes.