Description
Bright, zesty, and full of bold flavors, this Korean Carrot Salad is a spicy-sweet side dish that’s incredibly addictive! Inspired by Korean pickled dishes and popular in Central Asian cuisine, it features julienned carrots tossed in a garlicky, spicy, vinegar-based marinade. Whether you serve it with grilled meats, rice dishes, or on its own, this vibrant salad is sure to be a favorite.
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Ingredients
For the Carrot Base:
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5–6 large carrots, peeled and julienned (about 4 cups)
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tsp salt
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1 tbsp sugar
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1 tbsp white vinegar or rice vinegar
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp ground coriander (optional but traditional)
For the Spicy Oil Dressing:
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3 tbsp vegetable oil (or neutral oil like sunflower)
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1 tsp paprika (for color and mild flavor)
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
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1 small onion, halved (for flavor infusion, optional)
Optional Garnishes:
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1 tbsp sesame seeds
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2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro or parsley
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Sliced green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Carrots
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Peel and julienne the carrots using a grater, peeler, or knife.
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Place the carrots in a large bowl.
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Add minced garlic, salt, sugar, vinegar, black pepper, and ground coriander.
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Toss well to combine and allow the carrots to release some juice.
Step 2: Heat the Oil and Spice It Up
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In a small skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
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Add the onion halves (if using) and cook until lightly browned to infuse flavor, about 3-4 minutes.
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Remove the onions and discard.
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Add paprika and red pepper flakes to the hot oil, stir for a few seconds, then immediately pour the spiced oil over the carrot mixture.
Step 3: Mix and Marinate
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Toss everything together thoroughly to ensure the oil coats the carrots evenly.
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Let the salad sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
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Before serving, give the salad a good toss.
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Garnish with sesame seeds, green onions, or cilantro if desired.
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Serve cold or at room temperature.
Notes
Julienne Finely – The thinner the carrots, the better they absorb flavor.
Let It Marinate – This dish gets more flavorful the longer it sits.
Spice Level – Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat.
Use Fresh Garlic – It makes all the difference in flavor intensity.
Oil Temperature – Ensure the oil is hot enough to bloom the spices, but don’t burn them.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Cuisine: Korean-Inspired / Central Asian