Korean Cold Spicy Noodles

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Korean Cold Spicy Noodles, also known as Bibim Naengmyeon, are a refreshing and spicy dish that’s perfect for warm weather or whenever you’re craving something light yet flavorful. The dish consists of chewy buckwheat noodles, served cold and tossed in a vibrant, spicy-sweet sauce made with gochujang (Korean chili paste), sesame oil, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar. It’s typically garnished with thinly sliced vegetables like cucumber, kimchi, and boiled egg, and sometimes even topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped scallions for extra flavor and crunch.

I first made Korean Cold Spicy Noodles when I was in the mood for something different with bold flavors, and it quickly became a favorite! The noodles are delightfully chewy, and the spicy-sweet sauce adds a perfect kick. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste, add vegetables of your choice, or even include some protein like grilled chicken or beef. Whether for a quick lunch, a refreshing dinner, or a unique side dish, Korean Cold Spicy Noodles are a fantastic choice!

Perfect for:

  • Hot summer days
  • Quick weeknight meals
  • Korean food enthusiasts
  • Vegetarians (with tofu substitution)
  • Spicy food lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why these Korean Cold Spicy Noodles will become your go-to dish:

  • Perfect Balance of Spicy and Cool: The spicy gochujang sauce is complemented by the cold noodles and crisp veggies, creating an ideal balance of heat and refreshing coolness.
  • Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less gochujang.
  • Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy days.
  • Vibrant Colors: The bright red noodles and colorful toppings make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
  • Packed with Flavor: From the fermented gochujang paste to the tangy vinegar and sweetness of the sugar, every bite is a burst of flavor.
  • Healthy Ingredients: With vegetables, eggs, and a simple, clean dressing, this dish is packed with nutrients.
  • Vegan Option Available: Simply swap the egg for tofu or more vegetables to make this dish vegan-friendly.
  • Satisfying Yet Light: Filling enough to be a meal, yet light and refreshing, this dish is perfect for warm weather.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Prepare the noodles and sauce in advance, and it’s ready to eat in a flash.
  • Great for Sharing: This dish can easily be made in larger portions for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 14g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 9g

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

  • 4 servings of thin wheat noodles (somyeon or other cold noodles)
  • 2 boiled eggs, halved
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

For the Spicy Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons water (to adjust sauce consistency)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Gochujang: This Korean chili paste provides the signature spicy and umami flavor that makes the dish unique.
  • Sesame Oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce and noodles.
  • Rice Vinegar: Balances the spiciness with a tangy kick.
  • Boiled Eggs: Provides richness and protein to the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Noodles:

  1. Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking and cool the noodles. Set aside.
  2. Prepare Vegetables: Julienne the cucumber and carrot into thin strips. Set aside for garnish.

Prepare the Spicy Sauce:

  1. Mix Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, combine gochujang, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, salt, and water. Whisk until smooth and well combined. Adjust the water for your desired sauce thickness.

Assemble the Dish:

  1. Toss Noodles with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooled noodles with the spicy sauce until evenly coated.
  2. Add Vegetables and Egg: Arrange the julienned cucumber and carrot on top of the noodles. Place halved boiled eggs on the side.
  3. Sprinkle Sesame Seeds: Garnish with sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor.

Serve:

  1. Chill and Serve: Chill the noodles for an additional 10 minutes if desired, then serve cold, and enjoy!

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Korean Cold Spicy Noodles:

  • As a Light Summer Lunch: Serve it as a quick lunch option on a hot day.
  • With Kimchi: Pair with kimchi for an extra punch of flavor and texture.
  • For a Party: Serve as a side dish at your next barbecue or gathering.
  • With Tofu: For a vegan version, substitute the boiled egg with tofu for added protein.
  • With Pickled Vegetables: Add a side of pickled radish or other vegetables for more acidity.
  • As a Main Dish: Enjoy this dish as a complete meal on its own.
  • For Meal Prep: Store the noodles and sauce separately for an easy grab-and-go lunch throughout the week.
  • With Grilled Meat: Pair with grilled chicken, turkey, or beef for a heartier meal.
  • As a Side Dish to Korean BBQ: Serve alongside Korean BBQ dishes for a delicious contrast of flavors.
  • With a Side of Rice: For an even more filling meal, serve with a small bowl of rice.

Additional Tips

  • Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Ensure the noodles are cooked al dente so they hold up well when tossed with the sauce.
  • Rinse Thoroughly After Boiling: Rinsing the noodles in cold water prevents them from sticking together and keeps them refreshing.
  • Adjust the Spice Level: Start with a little gochujang and taste as you go, adding more for extra heat if desired.
  • Make the Sauce in Advance: Prepare the spicy sauce ahead of time for an even quicker meal.
  • Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or lettuce for variety.

Recipe Variations

  • Vegetarian Version: Skip the egg and add extra tofu or sautéed mushrooms for a savory, plant-based protein source.
  • Add Fruit: Try adding thin slices of pear or apple for a refreshing, fruity contrast to the spicy sauce.
  • Chilled Broth Version: Serve the noodles in chilled broth for a soupy variation of this dish.
  • Extra Spicy: Add extra chili flakes or hot pepper paste to make it even spicier.
  • Sweet and Sour Version: Add a little honey and lime juice to the sauce for a sweet and tangy variation.

Special Equipment

  • Large Pot: To boil the noodles.
  • Strainer: For rinsing the noodles.
  • Cutting Board and Knife: For julienning the vegetables.
  • Mixing Bowl: To combine the noodles with the sauce.
  • Whisk: For mixing the spicy sauce evenly.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use a different type of noodle?
    Yes, you can use any type of thin noodle such as soba or rice noodles.
  2. How long do the noodles stay fresh in the fridge?
    The noodles can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce and noodles separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  3. Can I freeze Korean Cold Spicy Noodles?
    Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the noodles may change once thawed.
  4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
    Yes, the noodles can be prepared in advance, and the sauce can be made up to 3 days ahead.
  5. Is there a substitute for gochujang?
    If gochujang is not available, you can substitute with a mixture of chili paste, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar, though the flavor will differ slightly.
  6. How can I make the dish less spicy?
    Reduce the amount of gochujang and add a little more sugar or vinegar for balance.
  7. Can I add meat to this dish?
    Yes, you can add grilled chicken, beef, or turkey if you prefer a non-vegetarian option.
  8. Can I use other vegetables?
    Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or lettuce.
  9. Can I add more sauce to the noodles?
    Yes, adjust the amount of sauce according to your personal preference.
  10. What’s the best way to serve this dish?
    This dish is best served chilled, but you can also serve it at room temperature if desired.

Conclusion

Korean Cold Spicy Noodles, also known as Bibim Guksu, are a refreshing, tangy, and spicy dish that’s perfect for warm weather or when you’re craving something light but flavorful. The noodles are served cold and coated in a spicy-sweet sauce made from gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, sesame oil, vinegar, and a touch of sugar. This combination creates a beautiful balance of heat, sweetness, and acidity that is signature to many Korean dishes.

The dish typically includes thin wheat noodles, which are cooked and then rinsed under cold water to cool them down and create a firm, chewy texture. The noodles are tossed in the spicy sauce, along with sliced cucumber, carrots, and sometimes hard-boiled egg or shredded lettuce for added crunch. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped scallions on top, and garnish with a drizzle of sesame oil or even a bit of kimchi for added depth. Korean Cold Spicy Noodles are a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.

I can’t wait to see how your Korean Cold Spicy Noodles turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your tasty creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!