Korean-Style Grated Carrot Salad (Morkovcha)

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Korean-Style Grated Carrot Salad (Morkovcha)

Morkovcha is a beloved Korean-inspired carrot salad that originated in Central Asia. It’s crunchy, tangy, garlicky, and lightly spicy—perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or topping for meats, rice, or sandwiches. Despite the name, it’s not traditional Korean cuisine but a Soviet-era adaptation inspired by Korean flavors.

Description

Morkovcha is made from finely grated carrots seasoned with garlic, vinegar, oil, and spices such as coriander and chili. The salad improves with time as the carrots marinate, making it ideal for meal prep and gatherings. It’s naturally vegan, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor.

 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) carrots, finely julienned or grated

  • 1½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tsp sugar

Seasonings

  • 1½ tsp ground coriander

  • ½–1 tsp red chili flakes (to taste)

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Aromatics

  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced or grated

Liquids

  • 3 tbsp white vinegar or apple cider vinegar

  • 4 tbsp neutral oil (sunflower, vegetable, or light olive oil)

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced and lightly fried in oil

  • Fresh herbs (cilantro or parsley), finely chopped

 Instructions

  1. Prepare the carrots
    Peel and finely grate or julienne the carrots. Place them in a large bowl.

  2. Season & soften
    Add salt and sugar. Massage the carrots gently with your hands for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened and juicy.

  3. Add spices & garlic
    Mix in coriander, chili flakes, black pepper, and garlic.

  4. Heat the oil (important step)
    Heat the oil until very hot (but not smoking). Carefully pour it over the garlic and spices—this blooms the flavors.

  5. Add vinegar
    Pour in the vinegar and mix everything thoroughly.

  6. Optional onion step
    If using onion, lightly fry it until golden and mix it into the salad with the oil.

  7. Marinate
    Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight, for best flavor.

 Notes

  • The carrots should remain crunchy, not mushy.

  • Flavor deepens significantly after resting.

  • Taste before serving and adjust salt, vinegar, or spice.

Tips for Best Results

  • 🥕 Use fresh, sweet carrots for best texture and taste

  • 🔪 A Korean carrot grater or julienne peeler gives authentic texture

  • 🌶️ Adjust chili to suit your spice tolerance

  • 🕒 Make it a day ahead—it tastes better the next day

  • 🫙 Keeps well refrigerated for 5–7 days

 Servings

  • Serves: 6–8 as a side dish

  • Serving size: ~150 g (1 cup)

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 110 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 12 g

  • Protein: 1.5 g

  • Fat: 7 g

  • Fiber: 3 g

  • Vitamin A: 250% DV

  • Vitamin C: 10% DV

(Values may vary based on oil and portion size)

 Health Benefits

  • Rich in beta-carotene – supports eye and skin health

  • Gut-friendly – vinegar and fiber aid digestion

  • Heart-healthy – no cholesterol, healthy fats

  • Anti-inflammatory – garlic and coriander provide antioxidants

  • Vegan & gluten-free

 Q & A

Q: Is Morkovcha authentic Korean food?
A: No. It’s a Korean-inspired dish developed by Korean communities in Central Asia.

Q: Can I make it without oil?
A: Oil is essential for flavor development, but you can reduce the amount slightly.

Q: Can I use lemon juice instead of vinegar?
A: Yes, but the taste will be milder and less traditional.

Q: Why pour hot oil over the spices?
A: This releases aroma and deepens flavor—key to authentic taste.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes! Bell peppers, cabbage, or daikon are popular variations.

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