Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This Chinese smashed cucumber recipe is unbelievably easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less cooking time. It's the perfect complement to any Asian-inspired dish, or even a delicious addition to a simple weeknight dinner. Get ready to experience the delightful crunch and refreshing taste of this culinary gem! This recipe is perfect for beginners and offers a fantastic introduction to homemade cooking. It's one of those delicious dishes that will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, about 1 pound
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Prep the Cucumbers: Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry. Using the side of a heavy knife or cleaver, gently smash the cucumbers along their length. You want to crack them, not completely pulverize them. This creates crevices for the sauce to penetrate.
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Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and chili (if using). Adjust the sugar to your preference; some prefer a sweeter dressing.
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Combine and Marinate: Place the smashed cucumbers in a medium bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated.
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Chill and Serve: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cucumbers to absorb the dressing. This step is crucial for the best flavor.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Before serving, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the cucumbers. This adds a delightful nutty aroma and visual appeal. Serve chilled as a refreshing side dish with your favorite meal. This recipe easily fits into healthy meal plans and is a great option for quick dinner ideas.
Cooking Tips for the Best Smashed Cucumbers:
- Don't over-smash: The goal is to crack the cucumbers, not to crush them into oblivion. A few good cracks are all you need.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding it to the cucumbers and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You might want more or less vinegar, soy sauce, or sugar.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cucumbers and garlic make a world of difference in the flavor of this dish.
Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews for added texture.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of chili or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Get creative with herbs: Add some finely chopped cilantro or green onions for a fresh herbal twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe is low in calories and high in vitamins and fiber, making it a healthy addition to any diet. The exact nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients used. A rough estimate is about 50 calories per serving.
This easy recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can create a delicious and healthy dish. It’s a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes and is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!