Korean Cold Cucumber Soup Oi Naengguk – Refreshing Summer Detox Recipe
Refreshing Korean Cold Cucumber Soup Oi Naengguk, topped with seaweed, onions, and sesame seeds – a perfect summer detox dish.
Introduction – Korean Cold Cucumber Soup Oi Naengguk and Summer Detox in One Bowl
Korean Cold Cucumber Soup, Oi Naengguk, is a traditional summer dish beloved for its cooling, hydrating, and detoxifying effects. This light, crisp soup features fresh cucumbers, tangy vinegar, and chilled broth – perfect for hot weather. As a Korean food content expert, I assure you this recipe captures the authentic flavors of Korean summer comfort food, passed down through generations.
Cultural Significance of Korean Cold Cucumber Soup and Summer Detox in Korea
Oi Naengguk is deeply rooted in Korea’s summer dining culture. It’s often enjoyed as a side dish to cool the body and stimulate appetite during humid months.
Oi Naengguk in K-Dramas – A Symbol of Home and Simplicity
In the K-drama “Summer Strike”, Oi Naengguk appears during a quiet, emotional dinner scene, symbolizing the beauty of simple, home-cooked Korean meals. This light soup reflects the Korean tradition of embracing seasonal ingredients.
Recipe Overview – Ingredients and Prep Guide
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4
Best Pairing: Korean rice dishes, grilled meats, or Bibimbap
| Ingredients | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Korean cucumbers (thin-skinned) | 500 g |
| Water | 1 L |
| Vinegar (rice or apple) | 50 ml |
| Korean chili flakes (gochugaru) | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp |
| Chopped scallions | 30 g |
| Ice cubes | As needed |
Expert Point: Use Korean cucumbers for extra crunch and mild flavor. Their thin skin makes them perfect for raw dishes like Oi Naengguk.
The Nourishing Benefits of Korean Cold Cucumber Soup
Hydrates and Cools the Body Naturally
Cucumbers are over 90% water, making this soup a perfect way to stay hydrated on hot days.
Supports Digestion and Gut Health
The natural enzymes in cucumbers aid digestion, while vinegar balances gut flora.
Low-Calorie and Detox-Friendly for Weight Management
Oi Naengguk is light, low in calories, and ideal for summer detox or vegan diets.
Korean Summer Superfood for Skin Health
Rich in silica and antioxidants, cucumbers help maintain skin elasticity and hydration.
Ingredients & Step-by-Step Instructions for Korean Cold Cucumber Soup
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash cucumbers thoroughly, slice thinly, and remove seeds if large for better texture. |
| 2 | Sprinkle salt over cucumber slices. Rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture and enhance crunch. |
| 3 | In a large bowl, mix water, vinegar, gochugaru, and sesame oil. Stir well. |
| 4 | Rinse salted cucumbers briefly to remove excess salt. Add to the soup base. |
| 5 | Adjust taste with extra salt or vinegar as needed. Add scallions and ice cubes just before serving. |
Pro Tip: Adding ice cubes instantly chills the soup, preserving cucumber crunch and enhancing the refreshing taste.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes – How to Perfect Your Oi Naengguk
✅ Mistake: Watery or Bland Flavor
Why: Skipping the salting step or under-seasoning weakens the taste.
Solution: Salt cucumbers properly and balance vinegar and seasoning to maximize flavor.
✅ Mistake: Wrong Cucumber Type
Why: Thick-skinned cucumbers become soggy.
Solution: Use Korean cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for the best texture.
✅ Mistake: Serving Without Ice
Why: Lukewarm broth ruins the refreshing effect.
Solution: Always serve with ice cubes for maximum cooling.
Recommend More Korean Recipes for Summer Detox
Looking for more refreshing Korean recipes? Try these next:
Ready to Cook Korean Cold Cucumber Soup Oi Naengguk at Home?
Now it’s your turn! Recreate this light and hydrating Korean Cold Cucumber Soup Oi Naengguk at home. Enjoy the cooling, detoxifying flavors and experience the essence of Korean summer cooking.
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