Smashed Radishes

Directions

1. 1

   Step 1

   

   Wash the radishes, trim the tops and tails. You will need a saucepan or small skillet for heating the oil, a heatproof bowl of 1 liter or larger, and a meat mallet or rolling pin.

2. 2

   Step 2

   

   Place the radishes on a board, cover with plastic wrap to prevent splashing. Hit them moderately with a rolling pin or mallet — the radishes should crack but not fall apart into pieces.

3. 3

   Step 3

   

   Finely chop the garlic, onion, and chili pepper. Transfer the chopped ingredients to a heatproof bowl and add the sesame seeds.

4. 4

   Step 4

   

   In a saucepan or skillet, heat the vegetable oil until the first wisps of smoke appear — about 2 minutes over medium heat. Carefully pour the hot oil into the bowl with the spices — the mixture will sizzle and bubble.

5. 5

   Step 5

   

   After 10 seconds, add the sugar, rice vinegar, and soy sauce to the bowl. Stir.

6. 6

   Step 6

   

   Chop the cilantro and add it to the bowl with the oil. Add the smashed radishes and mix. Taste and add more salt if needed. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to marinate — the radishes will soak up the sauce and become even tastier.

7. 7

   Step 7

   

   Serve the radishes in a deep bowl, sprinkled with sesame seeds and green onions. You can also serve them on lettuce or napa cabbage leaves.