Bean Sprout Namul Recipe

I absolutely love this bean sprout namul recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for my busy lifestyle. Plus, the combination of sesame oil and soy sauce gives it a deliciously nutty and savory flavor that I can’t resist!

I adore the Bean Sprout Namul. Its nutritional value and simplicity appeal to me.

You get just 250g of fresh bean sprouts, which feel amazing to work with, having just the right amount of crunch and being so very, very fresh. And then there is a dash of sesame oil, which already is making my mouth water; a bit (or more) of soy sauce; and an adequate (or more) amount of minced garlic.

That is all there is to it. It is bang for your buck in terms of flavor and straightforwardness.

Ingredients

Bean Sprouts:
They are low in calories and high in fiber; they promote bowel health.

Sesame Oil:
It adds a nutty aroma and smooth texture, and it is rich in healthy fats.

Soy Sauce:
Delivers a delectable umami taste, low in calories but high in salt.

Garlic:
Enhances immune system; provides powerful taste and odor.

Sesame Seeds:
Brimming with nutritious fats and minerals, they provide crunch and nuttiness.

Scallion:
Presents a light, delicate flavor, which is similar to that of onions.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 250g bean sprouts
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 1 scallion, finely chopped
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Wash the bean sprouts well under cold water.

2. Bring a pot of water to a boil, and then immerse the bean sprouts for approximately 1 to 2 minutes.

3. The bean sprouts should be drained immediately and rinsed with cold water to stop the cooking process.

4. In a big bowl, mix the blanched bean sprouts with sesame oil and soy sauce.

5. Ensure that the minced garlic is evenly distributed throughout the mixture before you proceed.

6. Add the sesame seeds and toss everything together gently.

7. Incorporate the minced scallion for another layer of flavor.

8. Add salt to taste, if necessary, to align with your preference.

9. Combine all components thoroughly, making sure to coat the bean sprouts evenly.

10. The Bean Sprout Namul can be served as a side dish or appetizer, and eaten chilled, if you like.

Equipment Needed

1. Colander
2. Large pot
3. Large bowl
4. Measuring spoons
5. Knife
6. Cutting board
7. Spoon for mixing

FAQ

• Q: Can I use any type of bean sprouts for this recipe?You can use either soybean sprouts or mung bean sprouts for this dish—they both work really well.
• Q: How do I prepare the bean sprouts before cooking?To prepare the beansprouts, ensure that you wash them well in cold running water, ideally under a sink spray. Remove any soft or brown bits, and work your hands through the sprouts to ensure they are a) clean and b) in good (crunchy and fresh) condition to be cooked.
• Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?Q: Can Bean Sprout Namul be made a day ahead? Please include all steps and ingredients in your answer.

  A: Yes, Bean Sprout Namul can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

• Q: Is there a substitute for sesame oil?A: It is preferred to use toasted sesame oil for its nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with a neutral oil if needed, like vegetable oil or canola oil.
• Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?To make the recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?A: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

1 tablespoon sesame oil; olive oil or peanut oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce: tamari or coconut aminos
1 clove garlic, minced: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon sesame seeds: canned tuna
1 scallion, finely chopped: chives or shallots

Pro Tips

1. Quick Cooling After blanching the bean sprouts, immerse them in an ice bath instead of just rinsing with cold water. This will effectively stop the cooking process, helping the sprouts retain their crispiness.

2. Toasted Sesame Seeds Lightly toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant. This will enhance their nutty flavor, making the dish even more aromatic.

3. Garlic Infusion Gently heat the sesame oil in a small pan and add the minced garlic for a minute before mixing it with the bean sprouts. This will infuse the oil with a richer garlic aroma without burning it.

4. Scallion Preparation Use both the white and green parts of the scallion. The white part has a sharper taste, adding more bite, while the green part offers a milder flavor with better color contrast.

5. Soy Sauce Alternative If you prefer a gluten-free option or just want a different flavor profile, try using tamari instead of regular soy sauce. It provides a similar savory quality and is usually gluten-free.