on Apr 12, 2024 Also known as Morchovka, this dish has a fascinating history, dating back to around the 1930s. It was during this time that Korean refugees in the former Soviet Union found unique ways to recreate the food of their homeland, using improvised ingredients. Morchovka (which loosely translated in Russian means “Korean Carrots”), was meant to replicate crunchy, sour, spicy kimchi; carrots took the place of Napa cabbage and this incredible cultural fusion dish was born.
Why You’ll Love Korean Carrot Salad
If you love pickled vegetables, this salad is for you. Thin strips of carrots marinate in a mixture of vinegar, garlic, and cayenne, which adds tang and just a small kick of spice 🔥. You can prepare this dish in under 5 minutes ⏲ and it’s ready to serve, but let it sit in the fridge for a day (or a few), and the dish only gets better: crunchy and more flavorful. Best of all, it’s a very flexible recipe, which can be made with different variations and substitutions.
How to Prepare Korean Carrot Salad
🥕 Peel the carrots with a standard vegetable peeler. Then julienne the carrots using a julienne peeler. 🔪 If you don’t have one, you can julienne them by hand with a sharp chef’s knife. Alternatively, you can grate the carrots, but julienning gives the preferred texture. 🥣 Place the julienned carrots in a bowl. 🧄 Combine garlic, salt, paprika, cayenne, and white balsamic vinegar in the bowl with the carrots. 🌶️ Warm oil in a small pot until it shimmers, then carefully pour it over the garlic and spice mixture to cook them slightly. ✋ Let the mixture cool a bit, then mix well with clean bare hands or gloved hands to ensure an even distribution of garlic and spices. ✨ Transfer the carrots to a large glass jar with a lid. 🌕 Enjoy immediately or refrigerate for better flavor; they’ll last for about 10 days in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge.
Variations and Substitutions for Korean Carrot Salad
Best Served With
Grilled Chicken Thighs, steak, or pork chops Rice or grain bowls as a topping or side A Simple Green Salad or an Asian-inspired salad
Common Questions
