Oi-sun (오이선), or cucumber boats, is a delightful Korean appetizer that’s both refreshing and surprisingly savory. This simple yet elegant dish showcases the crispness of cucumbers perfectly complemented by a flavorful filling. Traditionally featuring a beef and shiitake mushroom mixture, the oi-sun offers a delightful textural contrast and a balanced taste profile that’s perfect for a light meal or as a starter to a larger feast. Its vibrant green color and appealing presentation make it an ideal dish to impress guests, adding a touch of Korean culinary charm to any occasion. The ingredients are readily available, and the preparation is surprisingly straightforward.
Beyond its simple elegance, the beauty of oi-sun lies in its versatility. While the classic beef and shiitake filling is a timeless favorite, you can easily adapt the recipe to include other ingredients to suit your palate. Ready to create your own delicious version of this Korean culinary gem? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own Oi-sun (오이선)!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Bowl
- Pan
- Dry cotton cloth
Ingredients
- Cucumbers
- Beef
- Shiitake Mushrooms
- Cheonil (seasoning): 1 tablespoon
- Water
- Egg Yolks
- Egg Whites
- Salt
- Sesame Seeds
- Sweet and Sour Sauce
- Red Peppers or Chili Peppers (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Cucumber Boats and Filling Ingredients
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut it three times and into bite-sized pieces.
- Add one tablespoon of cheonil and pour water over the cucumbers; let it sit.
- Slice the beef as thinly as possible.
- Marinate the beef and shiitake mushrooms.
- Mix the marinated beef and shiitake mushrooms well.
- Separate egg yolks from egg whites and beat the yolks well with salt.
- Prepare the filling by finely chopping sesame seeds and mixing with the beef and shiitake mixture.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the pickled cucumbers using a dry cotton cloth.
- Gently stir-fry the cucumbers to remove excess moisture and enhance their crunchiness and color.
- Add sliced red peppers or chili peppers for extra color and flavor.
Step 2. Marinate and Mix the Beef and Shiitake Filling
- Marinate the beef and shiitake mushrooms.
- Mix the marinated beef and shiitake mushrooms well.
- Prepare the filling by finely chopping sesame seeds and mixing with the beef and shiitake mixture.
Step 3. Pickle and Prepare Cucumbers
- Cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, then cut it three times and into bite-sized pieces.
- Add one tablespoon of cheonil and pour water over the cucumbers; let it sit.
- Squeeze out excess moisture from the pickled cucumbers using a dry cotton cloth.
- Gently stir-fry the cucumbers to remove excess moisture and enhance their crunchiness and color.
Step 4. Assemble and Serve
- Fill the cucumber boats with the prepared filling.
Read more: Bibimbap Recipe: Delicious Korean Mixed Rice & Vegetables
Tips
- Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cucumbers.
- Stir-frying the cucumbers helps them become more crunchy and vibrant in color.
- Pour sweet and sour sauce over the finished dish just before serving.
Nutrition
- Calories: varies
- Fat: variesg
- Carbs: variesg
- Protein: variesg
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even tofu would work well. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the protein you choose.
2. How far in advance can I prepare the cucumber boats?
It's best to assemble and fill the cucumber boats just before serving to prevent the cucumbers from becoming soggy. You can prep the filling ahead of time, though.
With its vibrant colors, refreshing taste, and surprisingly simple preparation, oi-sun (오이선) is a Korean appetizer that will impress your guests and elevate your culinary repertoire. This recipe offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect addition to any meal. So, gather your ingredients and embark on this culinary journey – enjoy your homemade cucumber boats!