I’ve always been obsessed with Chinese stir-fried noodles. It didn’t matter what type: chow mein, chow fun, or just plain old ginger-scallion noodles. Any one would do. I loved the oiliness and the saltiness of the noodles. It was the perfect comfort food…when I was in my twenties.
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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Hobak Namul (Korean Stir-Fried Zucchini)
Hobak Namul is a popular Korean side dish (banchan). It is also very easy to make and requires very little time, 10-15 MINUTES MAX.
Usually, Chosun Hobak (Korean Zucchini) is used for this dish. They are rounder and fatter than the thin zucchinis available in most American grocers. And the flesh is slightly sweeter. I’ve been pretty spoiled; because my maternal grandmother grows them in her backyard. Most years, she has an abundance during harvest season. She has enough to share them with her friends and neighbors. Needless to say, she’s a very popular woman. And she has enough leftover to store them for later use after the season is over.
Continue Reading Hobak Namul (Korean Stir-Fried Zucchini) . . .