Looking for a dish that cools you down on a hot summer day but still packs a punch of flavor? Mul Naengmyeon, or Korean Cold Noodles in Broth, is a classic summer favorite that’s light, tangy, and oh-so-refreshing. Made with chewy buckwheat noodles, icy savory broth, and topped with crisp vegetables and boiled egg, this dish is the ultimate way to beat the heat—Korean style!
🥢 Why You’ll Love Mul Naengmyeon
- ❄️ Perfect for summer – Served icy cold for maximum refreshment
- 🕒 Quick to prepare – Ready in under 30 minutes
- 🍜 Unique texture – Chewy noodles and crunchy toppings
- 🌱 Customizable – Add gochujang for spice or extra veggies for crunch
🛒 Ingredients
For the Broth:
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cold water
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp soy sauce
- Optional: 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- Ice cubes (as needed)
For the Noodles:
- 1 package naengmyeon noodles (buckwheat noodles)
Toppings:
- 1 boiled egg, halved
- ½ Korean pear or crisp apple, thinly sliced
- ½ cucumber, julienned
- Pickled radish (optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Optional: gochujang (for a spicy kick)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Chill the Broth
In a large bowl or pitcher, combine beef broth, cold water, rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well until sugar dissolves. Adjust to taste—it should be slightly tangy and slightly sweet. Add ice and refrigerate while you prep everything else.
2. Boil the Noodles
Cook the naengmyeon noodles according to package instructions (usually 3–4 minutes). Rinse under cold running water and drain well. For extra chill, plunge into an ice bath after draining.
3. Prep the Toppings
Slice cucumber and pear, boil the egg, and prep any optional toppings like pickled radish or gochujang.
4. Assemble
Place a bundle of noodles in a shallow bowl. Pour the icy broth over the top. Add cucumber, pear, half a boiled egg, and any extras. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve immediately.
🍽 Tips & Variations
- Want it spicier? Add a spoonful of gochujang on top and mix before eating.
- No beef broth? Use dongchimi (radish water kimchi) brine or a veggie broth with extra seasoning.
- Make it a meal: Serve alongside Korean BBQ or kimchi pancakes.
📌 Final Thoughts
Mul Naengmyeon is a beloved summer staple in Korean cuisine for a reason. It’s light, flavorful, and guaranteed to cool you down in the most delicious way. Whether you’re new to Korean food or a seasoned fan, this dish is a must-try!