Korean Carrot Salad Recipe (Classic Morkovcha Salad) (2024)

Imagine a dish vibrant in color, rich in flavor, and satisfying in texture. That's exactly what this Korean carrot salad offers. The grated carrots, seasoned with salt and pepper, along with the zesty lemon juice and aromatic fresh dill, create a salad that's as delicious as it is beautiful. The drizzle of olive oil ties it all together, adding a velvety finish to this delightful dish.

Korean carrot salad, also known as Morkovcha, is a popular dish among the Koryo-saram (Korean Russians) and is a delightful addition to any meal. Its simplicity and refreshing flavors make it a perfect dish to prepare at home, especially for those days when you crave something light yet flavorful.

What's unique about this Korean carrot salad recipe is the use of a Korean grater, which helps guarantee that the carrots have the ideal texture to soak up all the delicious dressing.

The minced garlic and sea salt add a nice kick, while the lemon juice and fresh dill give it a refreshing twist. Once you've tried this Korean carrot salad, it is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

Want to learn how to make this Korean carrot salad recipe? Then keep on reading.

What is a Korean Carrot Salad?

Korean carrot salad, also known as Morkovcha, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that originates from the Koryo-saram people, who are ethnic Koreans residing in Russia. Morkovcha is a play on the Russian word for carrots, which is actually morkovka.

This salad is a delightful mix of fresh ingredients such as julienne carrots, garlic cloves, spices, and lemon juice or rice vinegar tossed together in a large bowl.

The carrots are typically grated using a Korean grater or a mandoline to achieve thin, uniform strips, enhancing the texture of the salad.

Making Korean carrot salad at home is a fantastic idea as it’s not only delicious but also a crowd pleaser! The salad bursts with the tangy flavor of rice vinegar, the earthy aroma of spices, and the refreshing taste of julienned carrots. It’s a perfect side dish for potlucks or a light, refreshing lunch on a hot day.

So, if you're looking for a tasty and healthy dish that's easy to whip up, this Korean carrot salad recipe is a must-try!

What Makes This Korean Carrot Salad Recipe Special?

Quick: You don't need to spend hours in the kitchen for this recipe. Just a few minutes of grating and mixing, and your salad is ready. The rest of the time, it is chilling in the fridge, developing all those wonderful flavors.

Family favorite: With its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors, this Korean carrot salad is sure to become a hit with the whole family. The tangy lemon juice and the kick from the black pepper make it a tasty addition to any meal.

Perfect for any occasion: This salad is not just for family dinners. It is also perfect for potlucks, picnics, and parties. The ingredients are readily available, and it can be prepared ahead of time, which makes it a convenient choice for any occasion.

Crowd Pleaser: The unique flavors and textures of this Korean carrot salad are sure to impress your guests. It is a fresh and healthy side dish that pairs well with a variety of mains, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.

What You Need to Make Korean Carrot Salad at Home

All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this Korean carrot salad recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:

• Large Carrots: This is the star of our Korean carrot salad recipe. Grated using a Korean grater or a mandoline, these carrots add a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the salad.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic cloves infuse the salad with a subtle hint of pungent, spicy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the carrots.
• Sea Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and helps to draw out the natural juices of the carrots, adding depth to the salad.
• Lemon Juice: The tangy flavor of lemon juice brightens up the salad and helps to balance the sweetness of the carrots and the richness of the olive oil.
• Black Pepper: A sprinkling of black pepper adds a touch of heat to the salad, enhancing its overall flavor profile.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to dress the salad, adding a rich, fruity flavor and a smooth, velvety texture.
• Chopped Fresh Dill: Dill brings a fresh, herby flavor to the salad that compliments the sweetness of the carrots perfectly. It also adds a pop of vibrant green color that makes the salad visually appealing.

How to Make Korean Carrot Salad (Step-by-Step)

Making this incredible Korean carrot salad is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:

How to Prep the Carrots

First, let's start by preparing the main ingredient of our Korean carrot salad recipe - the carrots. Begin by peeling your carrots to remove the outer layer. After peeling, rinse the carrots under cool water to remove any leftover dirt or debris.

Now, it is time to grade the carrots. You can do this by using a Korean grater or a mandoline to julienne the carrots. If you don't have either of these tools, a sharp knife will also do the job. Just make sure to cut the carrots into thin, long strips.

How to Prepare the Salad Dressing

Now, let's move on to the dressing. Start by mincing some fresh garlic cloves. The amount of garlic you use will depend on your personal taste, but two cloves are usually enough. Add the minced garlic to a large bowl, followed by some sea salt and lemon juice. The salt and lemon juice will help to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Next, add some black pepper to the bowl. The amount of pepper you use is up to you, but a pinch should be enough.

Finally, drizzle some olive oil over the mixture. The oil will help to bind all the ingredients together and will also give your salad a nice glossy finish.

How to Mix and Assemble the Salad

After you've prepared the dressing, it is time to mix the salad. Add the julienned carrots to the bowl with the dressing and sprinkle some fresh dill on top. Using your hands or a large spoon, mix everything together until the carrots are evenly coated with the dressing.

The final step is to let the salad chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving. This allows the carrots to absorb all the wonderful flavors from the dressing.

And there you have it - a simple and delicious Korean carrot salad, perfect for potlucks or a healthy side dish. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Best Korean Carrot Salad Ever

Use a Korean grater: For the perfect texture in your Korean carrot salad recipe, grate your carrots using a Korean grater or a mandoline set on julienne. This will give you thin, uniform strips that are perfect for absorbing flavors.

Season well: Don't skimp on your seasoning. The minced garlic, sea salt, black pepper, and fresh dill are crucial to the salad's flavor. Add these ingredients liberally and adjust to your taste.

Allow it to chill: Once your salad is mixed, chill it in the fridge for a few hours. This time allows the ingredients to absorb all the flavors, making for a tastier salad.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a world of difference in this recipe. Freshly grated carrots, minced garlic, and chopped dill will bring out the best in your Korean carrot salad.

Don't rush: Good things take time, and this salad is no exception. Allow the salad to sit after you've mixed it to let the flavors meld together. The longer it sits, the tastier it will be.

Serving Suggestions for Korean Carrot Salad

• If you're planning a potluck, this salad works wonderfully as a crowd-pleasing side dish. Its unique flavors and vibrant colors are sure to stand out on the buffet table.
• Try serving it alongside grilled meats or fish. The tangy, fresh flavors of the salad are a great contrast to the smoky, rich flavors of the grill.
• This salad can also be used as a topping for your favorite BBQ tacos or sliders. It adds a crunchy, tangy element that elevates the overall taste.
• You can also use it as a filling for your wraps or sandwiches. The crunchy texture and tangy taste of this salad add an exciting twist to your regular lunch fare.

Recipe Variation Ideas for Korean Carrot Salad

This delicious Korean carrot salad recipe is absolutely perfect as is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:

Try it Russian style: For a twist on the Korean carrot salad, consider a Russian variation known as "morkovcha." This involves adding ingredients such as ground coriander, julienne onions, and white vinegar.

Spice it up: If you enjoy spicy food, why not add some heat to your carrot salad? A dash of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a nice kick. Just sprinkle it on top or mix it in with your olive oil before you pour it over the salad.

Go for the crunch: If you're a fan of texture in your salads, try adding some whole coriander seeds. Toast them lightly in a frying pan with a little vegetable oil before adding to your salad. They'll add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor with every bite.

Add some freshness: For a fresh and vibrant twist, throw in some fresh cilantro. This herb adds a refreshing flavor that compliments the tangy lemon and spicy garlic beautifully. Just chop it up and sprinkle it on top before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Store Leftover Korean Carrot Salad

If you have any leftover Korean carrot salad, you can definitely store it! Firstly, transfer the leftover Korean Carrot Salad to an airtight container or a large bowl covered tightly with cling film. Pop it in the fridge, and it should keep well for up to a week.

To serve, simply take it out of the fridge give it a good stir to distribute the olive oil and spices evenly. There's no need for reheating, as this salad is best enjoyed cold, just like kimchi or coleslaw.

As for freezing, it is not recommended for this Korean Carrot Salad recipe. The texture of the julienne carrots, cut so finely with a mandoline, can become soggy once thawed.

Similar Recipes You'll Love

• Carrot and Cheese Canapés Appetizers
• Carrot Cheese Spread with Smoked Salmon Appetizer
• Cabbage Carrots and Peppers Salad

See more salad recipes.

Recipe Card

Thank you for following me onInstagram,Facebook,andPinterest!

The post may contain affiliate links. Read mydisclosure.