**Introduction**
Korean cuisine offers an incredible variety of noodle dishes, each with unique flavors and textures. Today, I’d like to introduce you to a beloved dish from the “Noodle” category called *Jjolmyeon* (쫄면). Unlike other noodles, jjolmyeon features chewy, springy noodles served cold and mixed with a spicy, tangy sauce. It’s especially popular during the warmer months as a refreshing and satisfying meal. If you enjoy spicy and crunchy textures combined with a burst of flavors, jjolmyeon is sure to become your new favorite!
**Main Content**
*Ingredients (for 1 serving):*
– Jjolmyeon noodles (or Korean chewy wheat noodles) – 120g
– Cucumber – 50g (julienned)
– Carrot – 30g (julienned)
– Korean pear (optional) – 30g (julienned)
– Boiled egg – 1/2 piece
– Lettuce leaves – 2 leaves (washed and torn)
– Bean sprouts – 50g (blanched and cooled)
– Roasted seaweed flakes (gim) – 1g (for garnish)
– Sesame seeds – 1/2 teaspoon (for garnish)
*For the sauce:*
– Gochujang (Korean red chili pepper paste) – 20g
– Gochugaru (Korean red chili powder) – 5g
– Soy sauce – 10ml
– Sugar – 10g
– Vinegar (rice or apple) – 15ml
– Minced garlic – 3g
– Sesame oil – 5ml
– Water – 20ml
**Step-by-Step Recipe:**
1. **Prepare the noodles:**
Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the jjolmyeon noodles according to the package instructions (usually 3-4 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, immediately drain and rinse the noodles under cold water to stop cooking and firm up their chewy texture. Drain well.
2. **Prepare the vegetables:**
Wash and julienne the cucumber, carrot, and Korean pear (if using). Blanch the bean sprouts by boiling them for 2 minutes, then shock them in cold water to cool down and keep crunchy. Drain thoroughly. Wash and tear lettuce leaves.
3. **Make the sauce:**
In a bowl, combine gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, minced garlic, sesame oil, and water. Mix well until smooth. Adjust sweetness or spiciness according to your preference.
4. **Assemble the dish:**
Place the drained noodles in a mixing bowl. Add the prepared vegetables and lettuce. Pour the sauce over and toss everything together evenly so the noodles and veggies are fully coated with the flavorful sauce.
5. **Plate and garnish:**
Transfer the mixed noodles and vegetables to a serving bowl or plate. Slice half a boiled egg and decorate on top. Sprinkle roasted seaweed flakes and sesame seeds for added texture and aroma.
**Conclusion**
Jjolmyeon is a fantastic dish that perfectly balances spicy, tangy, and fresh flavors with a delightful chewy texture. It’s easy to prepare and refreshing, making it ideal for a quick lunch or a summer meal. Give this recipe a try and experience a vibrant side of Korean noodle cuisine that’s sure to excite your taste buds. Enjoy the bold flavors and crunchy vegetables with every bite!
