Bibimguksu (비빔국수), translating to “mixed noodles,” is a beloved Korean cold noodle dish known for its spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Traditionally enjoyed during the hot summer months, it’s both invigorating and satisfying, offering a perfect balance of heat and refreshment.
🌶️ What Makes Bibimguksu Special?
Unlike other Korean noodle dishes that may be served in broth, bibimguksu is distinctively brothless. The noodles are tossed in a vibrant sauce made primarily from gochujang (Korean chili paste), vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The dish is typically garnished with fresh vegetables like cucumbers and sometimes topped with a boiled egg, adding texture and nutrition.
🧊 Perfect for Hot Weather
Bibimguksu is especially popular during Korea’s hot and humid summers. The cold noodles combined with the spicy and tangy sauce help stimulate the appetite and provide a cooling effect, making it an ideal dish for warm climates.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Adjusting Spice Levels: For a milder version, reduce the amount of gochugaru or omit it entirely.
- Protein Additions: Enhance the dish by adding shredded chicken, tofu, or even grilled bulgogi for added protein.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to include other fresh vegetables like lettuce, carrots, or kimchi to add different textures and flavors.
- Noodle Alternatives: If somyeon noodles are unavailable, soba noodles or even rice noodles can be used as substitutes.
Bibimguksu (Spicy Korean Noodles)
Ingredients
Instructions
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Cook the Noodles
Boil the somyeon noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Drain thoroughly.
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Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
Omit the gochugaru to make it less spicy.
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Assemble the Dish
Place the cooled noodles in a serving bowl. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss until evenly coated.
Start with about half the sauce at first and add more according to taste.
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Add Toppings
Top the noodles with julienned cucumber and halved hard-boiled eggs. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
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Serve Immediately
Enjoy the dish cold for a refreshing meal.
User Reviews
I wasnt sure what to think about could noodles but am really pleasently surprised.
On my way to get more sesame oil to make this for dinner
Glad you liked it! 🙂
Easy and tasty!