Description
This Smacked Cucumber Recipe is a refreshing and tangy Chinese side dish that combines smashed cucumbers with a flavorful dressing of garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili oil. Quick to prepare and bursting with spicy, savory notes, it makes a perfect light and crunchy salad for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Cucumbers
- 4 Persian cucumbers or 2 English cucumbers
Seasoning & Dressing
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 to 2 teaspoons chili oil, adjust to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Topping
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the Cucumbers: Rinse the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry with a clean towel. Trim off the ends of each cucumber.
- Smash the Cucumbers: Place the cucumbers on a cutting board and gently smash them using the flat side of a large knife or a rolling pin until they split and crack. This process helps them absorb the dressing better.
- Cut into Pieces: Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces and transfer them into a bowl.
- Salt and Rest: Sprinkle the cucumbers evenly with 1 teaspoon of salt, toss to coat, and let sit for 10 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture for a crisp texture.
- Drain and Dry: After resting, drain off any liquid that has accumulated and lightly pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, sesame oil, chili oil (adjust according to heat preference), and sugar until well combined.
- Toss and Coat: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or chill it for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili oil to control the spice level to your preference.
- Using Persian cucumbers gives extra crunch, making the salad more refreshing.
- For added depth, a splash of black vinegar can be incorporated into the dressing.
- To increase spiciness, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes along with the chili oil.
- This salad is best served fresh the same day for optimal texture and flavor.
