Escape the summer heat with a vibrant and refreshing bowl of Ganjang Bibim Guksu, a delightful Korean cold noodle dish. This recipe elevates simple ingredients into a symphony of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. The chewy texture of the noodles perfectly complements the tangy soy sauce-based dressing, creating a satisfying and light meal ideal for warm weather. Imagine the cool, smooth noodles coated in a rich sauce, punctuated by the crunch of fresh vegetables and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This dish is surprisingly easy to make, even for novice cooks.
Ganjang Bibim Guksu is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, a testament to the beauty of Korean cuisine. Its customizable nature allows you to adjust the spice level and ingredients to your liking, making it a versatile and endlessly enjoyable recipe. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let's proceed to the detailed step-by-step instructions to create your own perfect bowl of Ganjang Bibim Guksu.
Tools Needed
- wok or pan
- small container
- large mixing bowl
- pot
Ingredients
- Noodles
- Ground beef: 200 grams
- Green onion
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Cucumber: 1/2
- Soft boiled egg
- Toasted sesame seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce: 1/2 tablespoon
- Mirin: 1/2 tablespoon
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Sesame oil
- Black pepper
- Vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Corn syrup: 1 tablespoon
- MSG: a pinch (optional)
- Korean chili pepper flakes: 1 tablespoon (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauces
- Finely slice green onions and chop garlic. If in a rush, use pre-mixed garlic.
- Julienne cucumber (more is better).
- Grind toasted sesame seeds for a more intense nutty flavor.
- Combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, mirin, sugar, chopped garlic, sesame oil, and black pepper. Marinate beef (optional).
- Combine soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, corn syrup, sesame oil, black pepper, and MSG (optional). Add chili flakes for spice (optional).
Step 2. Cook the Beef and Noodles
- Heat oil in a wok/pan. Add ground beef and cook until browned, rendering out fat and evaporating liquid. Add beef sauce and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Boil noodles according to package directions. Rinse under cold water to remove starch.
Step 3. Combine and Season
- In a large bowl, combine noodles, beef, and noodle sauce. Mix well by hand.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or soy sauce.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Plate noodles, top with cucumber, green onions, soft boiled egg, and toasted sesame seeds. Add salad greens or microgreens (optional).
Read more: Glass Noodle Stir-fry with Shrimp & Veggies: Easy Korean Recipe
Tips
- Be generous with green onions for extra flavor.
- Fresh cucumber enhances the dish.
- Grinding sesame seeds intensifies their nutty flavor.
- Marinating the beef improves its flavor, but it's optional.
- Perilla oil can be substituted for sesame oil.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of noodle for Ganjang Bibim Guksu?
Yes! While wheat-based noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types like buckwheat or sweet potato noodles for a different flavor and texture.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) to the sauce, or include a dollop of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra heat.
3. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?
Don't worry! Ganjang Bibim Guksu is very adaptable. Feel free to omit ingredients you don't have or substitute with similar ones (e.g., cucumber for zucchini).
Enjoy your homemade bowl of refreshing Ganjang Bibim Guksu – a perfect summer meal that’s both satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare. This versatile recipe allows for endless customization, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spice levels to create your own unique version. Now go forth and enjoy the delicious coolness of this Korean culinary delight!