Kong Namul-Korea(Blanched Bean Sprouts)
A refreshing Korean side dish featuring blanched bean sprouts tossed in a savory, slightly spicy dressing, perfect for light meals or complementing hearty dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blanch fresh bean sprouts in boiling water for 60 seconds.
- Drain and rinse immediately with cold water.
- Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, chili sauce, and finely minced scallion to make the dressing.
- Toss well-drained sprouts with the dressing in a bowl.
- Top with finely minced scallion and white sesame seed.
- Serve chilled as a side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure you blanch the bean sprouts for only 60 seconds to maintain their crunch. If you’re looking for a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of gochugaru instead of chili sauce. You can also substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option. Fresh lime juice can replace rice vinegar if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Kong Namul makes a great side dish for grilled meats or rice dishes. It pairs beautifully with Black Bread for a delightful contrast in flavors. For a complete meal, serve alongside other Korean dishes like kimchi or bulgogi. Garnish with additional scallions for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kong Namul can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a pan over low heat to retain their crispness; avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy. Serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kong Namul-Korea(Blanched Bean Sprouts) contains roughly 276 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bean sprouts for this recipe?
While fresh bean sprouts are recommended for their crunch and flavor, you can use frozen ones if fresh are unavailable. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before blanching to remove excess moisture.
What type of chili sauce works best?
Sriracha is a popular choice for its balanced heat and flavor, but you can also use gochujang for a more authentic Korean twist. Adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Is this dish suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, Kong Namul is completely vegan as it contains no animal-derived ingredients. It’s a great addition to any vegan meal, providing a fresh, crunchy side that complements various dishes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).