How to Make Buchu Muchim – A Korean Chive Side Dish

 

5-Minute Spicy Chive Salad – Easy Korean Side Dish at Home

Summary

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful Korean side dish? This spicy chive salad—Buchu Muchim—is your answer. With just a few ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time, even beginners can whip up this delicious side that pairs perfectly with rice, meat, or bibimbap.

1. Ingredients & Sauce Ratio

• Chives: 200g (fresh, green, firm stalks)

Sauce ingredients:

• 2 tbsp Korean red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

2. Prepping the Chives

1. Wash the chives thoroughly under running water.
2. Pat dry with paper towels to remove all moisture.
3. Cut them into 4–5 cm lengths.
4. Store in the fridge if not using immediately to keep them crisp.

Avoid soaking chives in water for too long—this weakens texture and drains nutrients.

 

3. Making the Spicy Sauce

This sauce is the heart of the flavor.

1. Combine gochugaru, soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil in a mixing bowl.
2. Mix well until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Add sesame seeds last for extra nutty aroma.
4. Let it sit for 5 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Use a 1:1 ratio of soy sauce and fish sauce for well-balanced seasoning.

 

4. Mixing It All Together

1. Add the chives to the sauce and gently toss with your hands.
2. Be careful not to press too hard—chives can become tough.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Extra tip: Leftover sauce works great in bibimbap or mixed rice bowls!

5. Serving Ideas for Chive Salad

• As a rice side dish: One spoonful boosts your appetite.
• With meat: Pairs perfectly with pork belly or bulgogi.
• In bibimbap: Mix with hot rice and gochujang for a flavorful meal.

Let it sit in the fridge for a day—flavors mature and deepen beautifully.

6. Nutrition & Health Benefits

Chives are packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, iron, and calcium. They support immunity, boost metabolism, and are excellent for a balanced diet. Easy to make, delicious to eat—this dish is a staple for any healthy Korean meal.

“Spicy chive salad is proof that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Try it today and upgrade your home meals instantly.”