Background and History:
Bibim-guksu is a spicy, tangy cold noodle dish that is particularly popular in the summer months in Korea. It’s an ideal choice for a light meal when the weather is hot, or after festive meals when you want something refreshing. The dish is quick and easy to make, making it a favorite for busy families or as a satisfying snack.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 300g somyeon (thin wheat noodles)
• 1 cucumber
• 1/2 carrot
• 2 boiled eggs
• A few lettuce leaves
• meat topping:
  • 100g ground beef or pork
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • A pinch of pepper
• Sauce: 4 spoons gochujang (Korean red pepper paste), 1 spoon soy sauce, 2 spoons vinegar, 1.5 spoons sugar, 1 spoon red pepper flakes, 1 spoon sesame oil, 1 spoon minced garlic, 1 spoon sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the somyeon for 3-4 minutes, then rinse under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain thoroughly.

2. Prepare the Vegetables: Julienne the cucumber and carrot, and tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Cut the boiled eggs in half.

3. Prepare the ground Meat:
   In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, then add the minced beef or pork. Stir-fry until fully cooked, then season with soy sauce, sugar, and pepper. Set aside.
   
   

4. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, mix gochujang, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, sesame oil, minced garlic, and sesame seeds to create a spicy and tangy sauce.

5. Assemble the Dish: Place the noodles in a serving bowl, top with the prepared vegetables and egg, and add a generous spoonful of the sauce. Mix well before eating.

Tip: Adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar based on your preference for a more tangy or sweet flavor. Bibim-guksu is a great dish to enjoy when you need something light yet flavorful after a rich holiday meal.