Gosarinamul || Bracken Salad, 凉拌蕨菜, 涼拌蕨菜, ワラビのナムル, 고사리나물 Leave a comment

Gosarinamul is a traditional Korean side dish made from bracken fern. Harvested in the spring, this dish is a seasonal favorite known for its unique bitter taste and crisp texture. Rich in vitamins and minerals, gosarinamul is a healthy and flavorful addition to any meal.

Key characteristics of gosarinamul:

• Spring seasonal: Only available during the springtime.
• Bitter taste: Its distinctive bitter flavor complements rich foods.
• Crisp texture: The blanching process preserves its crunchy texture.
• Versatile: Can be prepared in various ways, such as stir-frying, pickling, or as a simple side dish.

Health benefits:

• Improved blood circulation: Helps warm the body and promote healthy blood flow.
• Prevents constipation: High in dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and preventing constipation.
• Prevents osteoporosis: Rich in calcium, supporting bone health.

How to prepare gosarinamul:

1. Prepare the bracken fern: Clean the bracken fern and remove the tough ends.
2. Blanch: Blanch the fern in boiling salted water until it turns a bright green color. Rinse with cold water and drain.
3. Season: Mix the blanched fern with seasonings like gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes), soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil.

Popular gosarinamul dishes:

• Basic seasoned gosarinamul: The most common preparation, seasoned with simple ingredients.
• Stir-fried gosarinamul: Blanched fern stir-fried with sesame oil and soy sauce.
• Gosarinamul pickle: Fern preserved in a brine or soy sauce-based marinade.

What to serve with gosarinamul:

• Rice: Goes well with both white rice and mixed grains.
• Soups: Pairs well with traditional Korean soups like soybean paste stew or mung bean sprout soup.
• Pancakes: Enjoy with savory pancakes or other grilled dishes.

Important notes:

• Toxicity: Bracken fern contains a toxic substance, so it’s crucial to blanch it thoroughly before consumption.
• Allergies: If you have an allergy to bracken fern, avoid consuming it.