Dureupjangajji is a Korean pickle made with tree sprouts, specifically those of the Aralia elata tree. It’s a seasonal delicacy, particularly popular in the spring when the young shoots are tender and flavorful.
Here’s a basic recipe for Dureupjangajji:
Ingredients:
- Fresh tree sprouts (dureup)
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Sugar
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sprouts:
- Boil the tree sprouts in salted water for a short time to blanch them.
- Drain the sprouts and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Make the Pickling Liquid:
- Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
- Pickle the Sprouts:
- Place the blanched sprouts in a sterilized jar.
- Pour the pickling liquid over the sprouts, ensuring they are completely submerged.
- Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place.
- Aging:
- The pickling process takes about a week or two. The longer the sprouts are pickled, the more flavorful they become.
Tips:
- Freshness: Use fresh, tender tree sprouts for the best flavor.
- Pickling Liquid: Adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to your preferred taste.
- Storage: Store the pickled sprouts in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage.