Morkovcha (Korean Carrot Salad) 🥕
Morkovcha is a beloved carrot salad from Central Asia, inspired by Korean cuisine and adapted with local flavors. It’s crunchy, tangy, garlicky, and lightly spicy—perfect as a side dish or mezze-style salad.
🧾 Ingredients (Classic Version)
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1 lb (450 g) carrots, julienned
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1 tsp salt
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3–4 cloves garlic, minced
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1–2 tsp ground coriander
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½–1 tsp red pepper flakes (to taste)
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2 Tbsp white or apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup neutral oil (sunflower or vegetable)
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Optional: 1 small onion, thinly sliced
👩🍳 Instructions
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Prep carrots
Julienne carrots finely. Sprinkle with salt, toss, and let sit 10–15 minutes. Lightly squeeze out excess juice. -
Season
Add garlic, coriander, red pepper flakes, and vinegar. Toss well. -
Heat the oil
Heat oil until just shimmering (not smoking).
If using onion, briefly sauté it in the oil until lightly golden. -
Bloom the spices
Pour hot oil (with or without onion) over the carrots. You should hear a sizzle. -
Mix & rest
Toss thoroughly. Let rest at least 30 minutes—overnight is even better.
🌟 Flavor Profile
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Crunchy
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Brightly acidic
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Savory with gentle heat
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Fragrant from coriander and garlic
🔥 Pro Tips
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Use fresh, sweet carrots for best results
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Grate or julienne very thin for authentic texture
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Coriander is essential—don’t skip it
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Adjust vinegar and heat after resting
🔄 Popular Variations
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With soy sauce: Add 1 tsp soy for umami
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With sesame oil: Replace 1 Tbsp neutral oil
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With bell pepper: Thinly sliced for sweetness
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Protein boost: Add shredded chicken or tofu
🥗 Serving Ideas
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Alongside grilled meats
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As part of a zakuski spread
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In wraps or sandwiches
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Straight from the fridge as a snack 😄