“Bulgogi” Tempeh with Sautéed Onions

I indulged a little too much over the weekend. I don’t know about you. But I can’t say no to soft shell crab, especially the battered and fried ones dipped in aïoli. I can’t pass up fresh sea urchin either – even if those yummy morsels come nestled in cheese smothered pasta. I’m terribly lactose intolerant and gluten-sensitive. Yes. This would be a problem. And who can pass up a prosecco bar? I can’t. So I imbibed a bit.

So like a reasonable person, I planned to forgo dessert. But my plan was thwarted by a complimentary tray of desserts that came to our table. And I can’t let any dessert go untouched. But not only did I “touch” them, I polished them off. To make matters worse, we got a bottle of champagne, a mini chocolate cake, AND a mini carrot cake on our way home. At the end of the night, nothing was left.

Clearly, I have issues with restraint. I know this. I’m nothing if not self-aware.

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Bibim Guksu (Korean Sweet and Spicy Cold Noodles)

I call this my lazy hot Sunday noodles. “Lazy” because it is very easy and quick to make. And “hot,” well, it’s a bit of a misnomer since the dish itself is cold. But I usually crave it during “hot” summer days. And “Sunday” because that’s when I usually make it.

Bibim Guksu is perfect for those hot summer days because it’s made with COLD noodles and mostly cold ingredients. And it’s very easy to make. It’s as easy as making a salad. Hence the “lazy.”

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Pajeon (Korean Zucchini Scallion Pancakes)

Pajeon (Korean Scallion Pancakes) is probably one of the most popular appetizers in Korean cuisine. Whenever we go to a Korean restaurant, we don’t have to look far to spot a Pajeon atop someone’s table.

There is a good reason for this. Obviously, Pajeon is delicious. But it’s also a “safe” dish for those who are not familiar with Korean cuisine. As much as I LOVE Korean food, I must admit some dishes are an acquired taste. (Once acquired though, they are addictive!) But the scallion pancakes are comforting and familiar regardless of your origin or taste. They are savory and crispy when eaten right out of the skillet and piping hot. And they are savory and chewy when eaten at room temperature. The choice is yours. Ooh~ And don’t get me started on the salty, tangy dipping sauce.

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Sweet and Sour Pickled Cucumbers and Daikons

There’s nothing like some refreshing Korean-style pickled cucumbers and/or radishes in the summer time. They are sweet, sour, and if you are so inclined, spicy. They keep for days, you can eat them with (or on) anything. They make a great side for any meat or poultry dish. And they are great on Asian noodles, bibimbap, burgers, tacos, or sandwiches.

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Gyeran Jjim (Korean Steamed Silken Eggs)

Gyeran or Gaeran Jjim (Korean Steamed Eggs) is often served as part of the banchan spread when you go to a Korean restaurant. But you don’t have to visit a Korean restaurant to enjoy this dish. It is one of the easiest dishes you can make at home. Additionally, you don’t have to limit its potential. It can be much more than a side dish. For instance, you can serve it for breakfast or brunch with different stir-ins. And you can serve it in individual ramekins for a fun and lovely presentation.

Continue Reading Gyeran Jjim (Korean Steamed Silken Eggs) . . .