Bright, crunchy, and bursting with flavor, Korean-style grated carrot salad is a simple yet addictive side dish that has found fans around the globe. Traditionally known as “Morkovcha” in Eastern European adaptations of Korean cuisine, this salad combines sweet, spicy, tangy, and garlicky notes for a uniquely vibrant taste.
Preparing it in a jar makes it perfect for meal prep, gifting, or enjoying on the go. The salad keeps well in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time, making every bite even more flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Korean-Style Carrot Salad
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Quick and easy to prepare
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Bold, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor
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Perfect for meal prep in jars
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Great alongside sandwiches, rice bowls, or grilled meats
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Lasts up to a week in the fridge
Ingredients (Makes 2–3 Jars)
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4 large carrots, peeled and grated
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3 cloves garlic, finely minced
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2 tablespoons rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil (sesame oil for a nuttier flavor)
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1–2 teaspoons sugar (to taste)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1–2 teaspoons Korean chili flakes or red pepper powder (adjust to heat preference)
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Optional: 1 teaspoon soy sauce
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Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or sesame seeds
Instructions
1. Prepare the Carrots
Peel and grate the carrots using a box grater or food processor. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
2. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, vinegar, oil, sugar, salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is evenly combined.
3. Combine Salad
Pour the dressing over the grated carrots. Use your hands (wear gloves if using chili flakes) or a spoon to mix thoroughly. Massage the carrots slightly to help them soften and absorb the flavors.
4. Pack in Jars
Divide the salad evenly among clean glass jars. Press lightly to compact the carrots without crushing them. Seal with a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though the salad improves after 12–24 hours as flavors meld.
5. Serve
Enjoy directly from the jar or transfer to a bowl. Garnish with sesame seeds or fresh herbs for extra visual appeal and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Carrot Salad in a Jar
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Grate carrots finely for even flavor absorption
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Adjust chili depending on your heat preference
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Use high-quality oil and vinegar for a clean, bright taste
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Massage the carrots to release natural sweetness and help soften the texture
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Store properly in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 7 days
Variations
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Sesame Lover’s Version: Add toasted sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving
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Crunchy Fusion: Add thinly sliced bell peppers or cucumbers
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Sweet & Tangy: Increase sugar slightly and add a splash of rice wine vinegar
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Spicy Korean Style: Add gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) for authentic heat
Why This Salad Works in a Jar
Packing the salad in jars isn’t just convenient—it enhances the flavor. The airtight environment helps the carrots absorb the dressing evenly, giving each bite a consistent sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy punch. Jars also make portion control easy and transform this side dish into a ready-to-go healthy snack.
Serving Suggestions
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As a side for rice bowls or grain salads
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With grilled chicken, fish, or tofu
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On sandwiches or wraps for a crunchy kick
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As part of a picnic or lunchbox spread
Storage
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Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 7 days
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Shelf life: Best eaten within the first week for peak freshness and crunch
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Tip: Shake the jar before serving to redistribute dressing
Final Thoughts
Korean-style grated carrot salad in a jar is a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful addition to any meal. It’s quick to prepare, keeps well, and packs a punch of taste that makes it addictive. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a bright, tangy salad, this recipe is a winner.
Its combination of spice, garlic, and tangy dressing creates a bold flavor profile that makes your ordinary carrot salad anything but ordinary. Give it a try, and you’ll understand why this humble dish has won over kitchens worldwide. 🥕🌶️