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Sesame-Pepper Bean Sprouts

This vibrant sesame-pepper bean sprouts recipe offers a masterclass in clean, bright flavours. A staple of Korean-inspired vegan cooking, the mung bean sprouts are lightly blanched to maintain their delicate texture before being dressed in nutty toasted sesame oil and a savoury seed seasoning. The addition of gochugaru provides a subtle, smoky warmth that perfectly complements the earthy notes of the sesame.

Enjoy this versatile dish as a refreshing side or as a traditional component of a colourful Bibimbap bowl. It is naturally healthy, low in calories, and provides a wonderful crunch that balances richer mains. For the best flavour, ensure you drain the sprouts well after boiling to prevent the dressing from becoming diluted.

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Ingredients for Sesame-Pepper Bean Sprouts

  • 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt

  • 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl

  • 6 cups mung bean sprouts (about 350g )

  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

  • gochugaru (coarse Korean red pepper powder)

How to make Sesame-Pepper Bean Sprouts

Mix 2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds, 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl; set aside.

Cook 6 cups mung bean sprouts (about 350g ) in a large pot of boiling salted water until soft but not mushy, 3-4 minutes. Drain well. Transfer to a medium bowl. Add 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; toss to coat. Season with sesame mixture and gochugaru (coarse Korean red pepper powder). (Serve remaining sesame mixture with Bibimbap .)

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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