Are you craving a refreshing and tangy side dish that's both incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than this authentic Chinese Pickled Cucumber recipe! This quick pickle recipe is perfect for adding a vibrant zing to any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to elaborate feasts. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and surprisingly simple. Get ready to experience the satisfying crunch and bright, zesty taste of these quick-pickled cucumbers – a true testament to the magic of simple food recipes!
Ingredients:
- 2 medium cucumbers, scrubbed and thinly sliced (about 1/2 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup white vinegar (rice vinegar is preferred for a milder flavor)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, enhances savoriness)
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and slice them thinly. The thinner the slices, the faster they will pickle and the more tender they will be.
-
Combine the Brine: In a medium bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, sugar, salt, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). If you prefer a richer savory taste, add the soy sauce here as well.
-
Pickle the Cucumbers: Add the sliced cucumbers to the brine, ensuring they are fully submerged. If necessary, gently press them down to ensure all slices are coated.
-
Marinate: Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. The longer they marinate (up to 2-3 hours), the more intense the flavor will become. For best results, let them sit in the fridge overnight.
Tips for the Best Pickled Cucumbers:
-
Cucumber Selection: Choose firm, crisp cucumbers for the best texture. Avoid cucumbers that are soft or have blemishes.
-
Adjusting Sweetness and Spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar and red pepper flakes to your liking. For a sweeter pickle, add more sugar. For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
-
Salt Matters: The salt helps draw out moisture from the cucumbers, resulting in a crisper pickle. Don't skip this step!
-
Storage: Store the pickled cucumbers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to a week.
Variations:
-
Garlic Lovers: Add more garlic! Two or three cloves will add a more pungent garlic flavor.
-
Ginger Zing: Add a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a delightful spicy-sweet addition.
-
Other Vegetables: Experiment with pickling other vegetables, such as carrots, radishes, or green beans, alongside the cucumbers.
-
Sweet and Sour: For a sweeter and more sour profile, try increasing the vinegar slightly and reducing the water.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 25-30
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Protein: Less than 1g
- Fat: Less than 1g
This quick pickled cucumber recipe is a fantastic addition to any healthy meal. Enjoy its refreshing crunch and tangy flavor as a healthy snack, side dish, or even a topping for sandwiches and salads! It's a simple yet delicious way to elevate your culinary game and add a touch of vibrant, homemade flavor to your everyday eating. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are also easy recipes, ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy!