Umami GuruRecipes

Chukkumi bokkeum (쭈꾸미 볶음)

Korea

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Chukkumi bokkeum, a Korean dish, illustrated in Studio Ghibli’s anime watercolor style

A spicy, tender and slightly crunchy snack of small octopus marinated in gochujang sauce, quickly grilled. Served with thin slices of fresh cucumber.

Ingredients

Steps

  1. Korean cuisine, octopus, ingredient preparation, Studio Ghibli illustration

    If the octopus is frozen – thaw it. If necessary, clean by removing the head's innards and beak, then rinse thoroughly under cold running water.

  2. Korean cuisine, chukkumi bokkim, marinated octopus, anime-style illustration

    In a bowl, combine Korean red chili paste, Korean red chili flakes, soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil and sesame seeds. Pour the marinade over the octopus, mix well until fully coated, and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 2–3 hours.

  3. Korean cuisine, Chukkumi Pokkim, cooking illustration, anime style

    Heat a lightly oiled grill or grill pan over medium‑high heat and grill the octopus for about 3 minutes, turning several times until browned but not dried out.

  4. Korean chukkumi bokkeum plated, Ghibli‑style illustration

    Place the cooked octopus on thin slices of cucumber (if using) and serve immediately. Optionally sprinkle with extra sesame seeds.

FAQ

What is Chukkumi Bokkeum?

Chukkumi Bokkeum is a popular Korean dish featuring small octopus marinated in a spicy gochujang-based sauce and quickly grilled.

How spicy is Chukkumi Bokkeum?

This Chukkumi Bokkeum recipe is designed to be spicy, using Korean red chili paste and flakes, offering a vibrant kick typical of the dish.

Can I substitute the octopus in Chukkumi Bokkeum?

While traditional Chukkumi Bokkeum uses small octopus, you could potentially substitute with squid or larger octopus cut into smaller pieces, though the texture might vary.

How do you pronounce '쭈꾸미 볶음'?

'쭈꾸미 볶음' is pronounced approximately as 'joo-kkoo-mee bok-keum'.

Where can I find authentic Chukkumi Bokkeum in Russia?

Many Korean restaurants in major Russian cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg offer authentic Chukkumi Bokkeum. Check local Korean eateries for this dish.