Hobak namul (Squash salad)

Korean Hobak Namul Recipe with Squash and Sesame Seeds

Region / culture: Korea | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2

Introduction

Hobak namul, also known as squash salad, is a popular Korean side dish that is both delicious and nutritious. This simple recipe is easy to make and can be enjoyed as a side dish or a light snack.

History

Hobak namul has been a staple in Korean cuisine for centuries. It is often served as a banchan, or side dish, alongside rice and other main dishes. The dish is typically made with fresh squash, which is readily available in Korea during the summer months.

Ingredients

0.5 squash or about 6 oz (170 g)
0.25 cup water
1 tsp sesame oil
0.5 tsp minced garlic
0.5 tsp sugar
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp soy sauce
0.25 tsp sesame seeds for garnish

How to prepare

Quarter the squash lengthwise and slice into 0.25-inch thick pieces.
In a small pan, combine all ingredients and mix well.
Add the squash to the pan and cover with a lid.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low heat and cook for another minute or so.
Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds.

Variations

You can add thinly sliced green onions or red bell peppers for added flavor and color.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes) to the mixture.
You can also add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the squash thinly to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more or less sugar, salt, or soy sauce as desired.

- For a more flavorful dish, you can add a dash of red pepper flakes or gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Hobak namul can be served as a side dish alongside rice and other Korean dishes. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy snack.

Cooking Techniques

The squash is quickly cooked in a pan with the seasonings to preserve its crisp texture and fresh flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have sesame oil, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute. You can also use honey or maple syrup instead of sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

Hobak namul can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Hobak namul pairs well with grilled meats, rice dishes, and other Korean side dishes such as kimchi and pickled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of hobak namul contains approximately 70 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of hobak namul contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of hobak namul contains approximately 3 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of hobak namul contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Squash is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium and fiber.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy sauce, which may contain gluten. Please check the label if you have a gluten allergy.

Summary

Hobak namul is a low-calorie, nutritious side dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

Summary

Hobak namul is a simple and delicious Korean side dish that is perfect for summer. With its fresh flavors and nutritious ingredients, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Hobak namul, a delicious Korean squash salad. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl visiting my aunt in Seoul. My aunt was an amazing cook, and she always had a new dish to share with me whenever I came to visit.

One day, I walked into her kitchen and saw her busy chopping up a beautiful green squash. I asked her what she was making, and she smiled and said it was a traditional Korean dish called Hobak namul. She explained that it was a simple yet flavorful salad made with thinly sliced squash, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.

I watched intently as she prepared the dish, taking mental notes of each step. She showed me how to slice the squash into thin strips, how to sauté it with garlic until it was tender, and how to season it with soy sauce and sesame oil. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

When my aunt finally served the Hobak namul, I took my first bite and was immediately hooked. The combination of flavors was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – savory, slightly sweet, and nutty all at the same time. I asked my aunt for the recipe, and she gladly shared it with me.

From that day on, I made it a point to learn as much as I could about Korean cuisine. I spent hours in the kitchen with my aunt, watching her cook and asking her questions about the different ingredients and techniques she used. I even started collecting recipe books and cooking magazines to expand my knowledge.

As the years went by, I continued to perfect my recipe for Hobak namul, adding my own twist to it by incorporating ingredients like toasted sesame seeds and green onions. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties, and it quickly became a crowd favorite. People would always ask me for the recipe, and I would happily share it with them, just like my aunt had done for me.

Over time, I also learned more about the cultural significance of Korean food. I discovered that each dish had a story behind it, rooted in tradition and history. I found a deep appreciation for the way food brought people together, creating a sense of community and connection.

I often think back to that day in my aunt's kitchen, when I first laid eyes on the recipe for Hobak namul. It was a moment that sparked a lifelong passion for cooking and sharing delicious meals with others. I am grateful for the knowledge and skills that I have acquired over the years, and I am proud to carry on the tradition of making this beloved Korean dish.

As I sit here now, preparing a fresh batch of Hobak namul for my family, I can't help but smile at the memories that flood my mind. The sight of the green squash, the aroma of garlic and sesame oil sizzling in the pan, and the sound of laughter and conversation filling the air – all of it reminds me of the joy that food brings into our lives.

I hope that one day, my grandchildren will feel the same sense of wonder and excitement that I did when I first discovered the magic of cooking. And I hope that they, too, will carry on the tradition of sharing delicious meals and creating lasting memories with their loved ones. For food is not just nourishment for the body – it is nourishment for the soul. And in that, there is true magic.