Discover the Freshness of Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad

Added by kocky, April 18, 2024
lunch → salad-recipes
Global cuisine

Chinese Smashed Cucumber Salad is a refreshing dish featuring cucumbers with a garlicky, spicy dressing. Ideal for a quick, healthy side dish.

skip to recipe

Recipe:

Ingrediens

• 2 large cucumbers
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili oil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

Directions

1. Prepare Cucumbers: Rinse cucumbers and pat dry. Lay them on a cutting board and smash lightly with the flat side of a knife just enough to break them open. Cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. Salt Cucumbers: Place cucumber pieces in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
3. Make Dressing: In a small bowl, combine minced garlic, rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and chili oil. Whisk until well blended.
4. Combine and Serve: Pat cucumbers dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss cucumbers with the dressing. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Tips and Tricks

1. Ensure cucumbers are well-dried after salting to keep the salad crisp.
2. Adjust the chili oil according to your preference for heat.
3. This salad is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for a few hours if needed.

Historical & Cultural Overview

The Chinese smashed cucumber salad, known as pai huang gua, is a staple in Chinese cuisine, especially during the summer. Its preparation involves a unique technique that helps the cucumbers absorb more flavor and maintain a satisfying crunch.

Reviews & Rating