These Easy Korean Pickles are crunchy, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing! Made with just a few simple ingredients like cucumbers, vinegar, and spices, they are a breeze to whip up.
Trust me, the first time I made these, I couldn’t stop munching on them! They add a zing to any meal, and they’re ready in no time. Perfect for beginners, you’ll love how easy and tasty they are!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: English or Kirby cucumbers are great for this recipe due to their crunchiness. If you can’t find these, you can use Persian cucumbers or even small pickling cucumbers. Just make sure they’re firm for the best texture.
Rice Vinegar: Rice vinegar gives these pickles a sweet and mild flavor. If you’re out, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar, but it may alter the taste slightly. Just adjust the sweetness to your liking!
Korean Red Chili Flakes (Gochugaru): This adds a nice mild heat and color. If you want a spicier kick, feel free to add more. Alternatively, you can use crushed red pepper flakes or omit it if you prefer no spice.
Garlic: Fresh garlic sliced thinly offers great flavor. You could also use garlic powder in a pinch but it won’t have the same impact.
How Do You Properly Draw Out Moisture from Cucumbers?
Getting the right texture for your pickles starts with removing excess moisture from the cucumbers. This helps keep them crunchy and enhance the pickling process. Here’s how to do it:
- After washing and slicing the cucumbers, place them in a colander.
- Sprinkle salt evenly over the cucumbers and toss to coat.
- Let them sit for 20-30 minutes. You’ll notice some water will collect below. This is what you want!
- After the resting time, pat the cucumbers dry with paper towels before adding them to the pickling liquid.
This technique is key to achieving those crunchy, flavorful pickles you’ll love!
Easy Korean Pickles Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 medium cucumbers (English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon Korean red chili flakes (gochugaru), optional for mild heat
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, chopped (including green and white parts)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of active preparation time, plus 2 hours of refrigeration to let the flavors meld. For best results, refrigerate the pickles overnight. So in total, you can enjoy your tasty pickles in just a little over 2 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Then, place the cucumber slices in a colander and sprinkle salt over them. Toss the cucumbers to evenly coat them with salt. Let them sit for about 20-30 minutes. This step helps draw out excess moisture from the cucumbers, making them crunchy. After the time is up, pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Pickling Solution:
In a mixing bowl, add the rice vinegar, water, sugar, and the thinly sliced garlic. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is completely dissolved. If you like a little heat, you can also add the Korean red chili flakes at this point and mix them in.
3. Combine and Fill the Jar:
Take the cucumber slices and place them in a clean jar or an airtight container. Pour the pickling liquid over the cucumbers, making sure they are fully submerged in the liquid. This ensures they soak up all the delicious flavors!
4. Add the Final Touches:
Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top of the cucumbers. They add a nice flavor and texture to your pickles.
5. Chill and Serve:
Seal the jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. For the best flavor, let them chill overnight. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy your refreshing Korean pickles as a delightful side dish or appetizer!
Enjoy your easy Korean pickles! They’re a great addition to any meal and perfect for snacking on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Korean Pickles
Can I Use Different Types of Cucumbers?
Absolutely! English or Kirby cucumbers work best due to their crunchiness, but you can also use Persian cucumbers or small pickling cucumbers. Just ensure they’re firm for the best texture!
How Long Can I Store the Pickles?
You can store the pickles in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just make sure they remain submerged in the pickling liquid for optimal flavor and freshness.
Can I Adjust the Sweetness in the Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste. If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar to 1/2 tablespoon or omit it entirely. The vinegar will still provide a nice tang!
What If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
If you’re out of rice vinegar, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Keep in mind it may slightly alter the taste, so adjust the sweetness as needed to balance the flavors!
