Description
Spicy Korean Carrots is a vibrant, flavorful side dish featuring julienned carrots marinated in a tangy and spicy sesame dressing. Combining Korean red pepper flakes with sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, this easy no-cook recipe bursts with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, making it a perfect appetizer or accompaniment for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Carrots
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and julienned
Marinade
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon green onions, finely chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Julienne the carrots: Peel and slice the carrots into thin, uniform strips using a sharp knife or mandoline slicer to ensure they absorb the marinade efficiently.
- Prepare the marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, minced garlic, gochugaru, and salt, stirring well until the sugar fully dissolves and the ingredients combine.
- Coat the carrots: Add the julienned carrots to the marinade, tossing thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce.
- Marinate: Allow the carrots to sit in the dressing for at least 30 minutes, preferably about an hour, so the flavors meld and intensify.
- Add garnish: Just before serving, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the dish and add finely chopped green onions for an extra layer of freshness and crunch.
- Serve: Enjoy the spicy Korean carrots chilled or at room temperature as a delicious side dish or appetizer.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of gochugaru based on your preferred spice level.
- For best flavor, allow the carrots to marinate for a full hour.
- This dish can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce to make this recipe gluten free.
- Gochugaru can be substituted with red pepper flakes if unavailable, though the flavor will differ slightly.
