BTS Jungkook's Makguksu (perilla oil noodle)

Alright, ARMY! Chef here, ready to guide you through recreating Jungkook's delightful Perilla Oil Makguksu. This recipe is a fun twist on classic Korean cold noodles, emphasizing the nutty, fragrant perilla oil. Get ready to slurp your way to deliciousness!

Jungkook's Perilla Oil Makguksu (Perilla Oil Noodles)

Estimated Cooking Time: 20 minutes (prep time) + 10 minutes (cooking noodles) Serving Size: 1 generous serving

Ingredients:

• Noodles:

  • 4 oz Dried Buckwheat Noodles (Makguksu Noodles) - You can find these at most Asian grocery stores.
  • 1/4 cup cold water

• Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp Perilla Oil (Toasted sesame oil can be substituted in a pinch, but the flavor won't be the same)
  • 1 tbsp Soy Sauce (Ideally Korean soy sauce, but any low-sodium soy sauce works)
  • 1 tsp Sesame Seeds (Toasted)
  • 1/2 tsp Sugar (or Honey, for a slightly different sweetness)
  • 1/4 tsp Garlic, minced
  • Pinch of Black Pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes, for a touch of heat)

• Toppings (Feel free to adjust based on your preference):

  • Kimchi, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
  • Seaweed Flakes (김, gim)
  • Cucumber, julienned (1/4 of a cucumber)
  • Hard-Boiled Egg, sliced (1/2 egg)
  • Sesame Seeds, extra for garnish

Equipment:

• Large Pot
• Colander
• Mixing Bowl
• Chopsticks or Fork

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
   • Add the dried buckwheat noodles and cook according to the package directions (usually 3-5 minutes). Be careful not to overcook them, you want them al dente (slightly firm).
   • Once cooked, immediately drain the noodles into a colander.
   • Rinse the noodles thoroughly under cold running water until they are completely cooled and the starch is removed. This is crucial for the texture of the dish.
   • Drain well and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine the perilla oil, soy sauce, sesame seeds, sugar (or honey), minced garlic, black pepper, and gochugaru (if using). Mix well until everything is dissolved.

3. Assemble the Dish:

   • Add the well-drained noodles to the mixing bowl with the sauce.
   • Using chopsticks or your hands (with gloves), gently massage the sauce into the noodles, ensuring they are evenly coated. This is a crucial step for flavor penetration.
   • Transfer the noodles to a serving bowl.

4. Add the Toppings:

   • Arrange the kimchi, seaweed flakes, cucumber, and sliced hard-boiled egg attractively on top of the noodles.
   • Sprinkle with extra sesame seeds for garnish.

5. Serve Immediately:

   • Enjoy your delicious Perilla Oil Makguksu cold! Feel free to stir everything together before eating. You can also add ice cubes to the noodles to chill them further, especially in summer.

Chef's Notes and Variations:

• Perilla Oil Quality: The quality of your perilla oil greatly affects the flavor of the dish. Look for cold-pressed perilla oil for the best flavor.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is easily made vegetarian. Just ensure your kimchi is vegetarian (some contain fish sauce). To make it vegan, you can omit the egg.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of gochugaru to your preference. You can also use a drop or two of sriracha for a different kind of heat.
• Protein: Feel free to add other protein sources like grilled chicken, tofu, or thin slices of Korean BBQ beef (bulgogi) for a heartier meal.
• Vinegar: Some people like to add a touch of rice vinegar for extra tang. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust to your taste.

Enjoy your homemade Perilla Oil Makguksu, just like Jungkook! 맛있게 드세요! (Enjoy your meal!)