Authentic Korean Mul Naengmyeon Recipe: A Refreshing Cold Noodle Dish

Ingredients

  • 200g of dried naengmyeon noodles
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 a Korean pear, thinly sliced
  • 1 boiled egg, halved
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon of vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of Korean mustard paste (gyeoja)
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds
  • 150g of cooked beef brisket, thinly sliced
  • Ice cubes
  • Kimchi (optional)
  • Spring onions (optional)

Steps and instructions

  1. Boil the naengmyeon noodles according to the package instructions, then rinse under cold water to cool, and drain well.
  2. In a bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, Korean mustard paste, and sesame oil to make the sauce.
  3. Place the cooled noodles in a large bowl.
  4. Arrange the cucumber, Korean pear, boiled egg, and beef brisket on top of the noodles.
  5. Pour the beef broth over the noodles and toppings.
  6. Add the sauce to the bowl, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and mix everything together.
  7. Add ice cubes to the bowl to keep it cool.
  8. Serve with kimchi and spring onions on the side, if desired.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - for boiling the noodles
  • Bowl - for mixing the sauce and serving the naengmyeon
  • Knife - for julienning the cucumber and slicing the Korean pear
  • Chopsticks - for mixing and eating the naengmyeon
  • Soup ladle - for pouring the beef broth over the noodles
  • Cooking spoon - for stirring the sauce and mixing the noodles
  • Measuring spoons - for precise measurements of vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, mustard paste, and sesame oil
  • Grater - for grinding the sesame seeds

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the beef brisket.
  • Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of gochujang (Korean red pepper paste) to the sauce for some heat.
  • Seafood twist: Add cooked shrimp or sliced squid as additional toppings.
  • Extra toppings: Include sliced radish, pickled radish, or julienned carrots for added crunch and flavor.
  • Refreshing twist: Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
  • Extra protein: Add sliced grilled chicken or tofu cubes as an alternative to beef brisket.
  • Whole wheat noodles: Substitute the regular naengmyeon noodles with whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.
  • Extra vegetables: Add blanched bean sprouts, sliced bell peppers, or steamed broccoli florets to increase the vegetable content.
  • Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make the recipe gluten-free.

Recipe overview

Mul Naengmyeon is a popular Korean cold noodle dish that is especially enjoyed during the hot summer months. Prepared with a delicious and refreshing beef broth poured over buckwheat noodles, this dish is typically served with an assortment of toppings such as cucumber, Korean pear, boiled egg, and thinly sliced beef brisket. The dish is completed with a flavorful sauce made of vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, Korean mustard paste, and sesame oil, and then garnished with sesame seeds. For an extra kick, kimchi and spring onions can be added on the side. This recipe will guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this refreshing and delightful dish at home. Enjoy the unique combination of flavors and textures that make Mul Naengmyeon a favorite among many.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the naengmyeon noodles? Boiling the noodles usually takes about 4-5 minutes, but always follow the package instructions for the best results.
  2. Can I use other types of noodles? Naengmyeon noodles are specifically designed for this dish and have a unique texture. It is recommended to use them for an authentic taste. However, if you can't find them, you can try using soba noodles as a substitute.
  3. Do I have to use beef broth? Beef broth is traditional for Mul Naengmyeon, but you can experiment with vegetable broth or chicken broth if you prefer a different flavor.
  4. Can I prepare the sauce in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use. Just give it a good stir before adding it to the dish.
  5. Is Korean mustard paste necessary? Korean mustard paste, known as gyeoja, adds a unique tangy flavor to the dish. If you cannot find it, you can omit it or substitute with Dijon mustard.
  6. Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Mul Naengmyeon by using vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omitting the beef brisket. You can add more vegetables or tofu as toppings to enhance the flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large bowl - Needed to mix the noodles, sauce, and toppings together.
  • Pot - Used to boil the naengmyeon noodles.
  • Colander - Used to drain and rinse the cooked noodles.
  • Bowl or serving dish - Where the final Mul Naengmyeon dish will be served.
  • Chopsticks or forks - Utensils for eating the noodles and toppings.
  • Soup spoons - Used to consume the broth.
  • Knife - For slicing the cucumber, Korean pear, and beef brisket.
  • Cutting board - Surface for cutting the ingredients.
  • Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and mustard paste.
  • Saucepan - Used to heat the beef broth.
  • Serving tongs - Useful for arranging the toppings and noodles in the bowl.
  • Ice cube tray - To make ice cubes for keeping the Mul Naengmyeon cool.
  • Sesame seed grinder - Optional tool for grinding sesame seeds for garnishing.

Origin stories

Mul Naengmyeon hails from the cold, wintry regions of North Korea. This icy-cold noodle soup was originally enjoyed in the royal court and amongst the noble class as a winter delicacy. The dish, despite its frosty temperature, was a heartwarming comfort during the coldest days of the year when served with piping hot broth. However, over time, Mul Naengmyeon's popularity spread throughout the Korean peninsula and it became a beloved summer dish, known for its unique ability to cool down body heat. Today, it's cherished in both North and South Korea as a refreshing meal during the sweltering summer months. The paradoxical tradition of a cold noodle dish originating from a cold climate and becoming a summer staple is a delightful twist in the culinary world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.