Are you looking for a quick and easy way to add a burst of refreshing flavor to your meals? Look no further than these delicious Asian-style pickled cucumbers! These crunchy, tangy pickles are incredibly versatile, perfect as a side dish, a topping for noodles or rice bowls, or even a unique addition to sandwiches. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a healthy and delicious alternative to store-bought pickles. Ready to dive in? Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers
Wash and thinly slice the cucumbers. For the best results, use a mandoline slicer for even slices, but a sharp knife works just as well. The thinner the slices, the quicker they'll pickle.
Step 2: Combine the Brine
In a medium bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step 3: Pickle the Cucumbers
Add the sliced cucumbers to the brine, ensuring they are all submerged. If necessary, use a small plate to weigh them down and keep them fully immersed in the liquid.
Step 4: Refrigerate
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a more intense flavor, let them pickle for 2-4 hours or even overnight. The longer they sit, the more tangy they become.
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
These pickled cucumbers are incredibly versatile! They’re delightful as a refreshing side dish to accompany Asian-inspired meals like stir-fries or noodle dishes. They also make an excellent topping for rice bowls, sandwiches, or even tacos for a unique flavor twist.
Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: Increase the sugar and add more red pepper flakes for a sweeter and spicier pickle.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add more minced garlic or a few cloves of roasted garlic for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Ginger Zing: Boost the ginger to 1 teaspoon for a more prominent ginger taste.
- Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of lime or lemon juice for a citrusy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for an aromatic flair.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 2 cups of pickled cucumbers. One serving (approximately 1/2 cup) contains approximately:
- Calories: 30-40
- Carbohydrates: 7-9g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 0.5g
This easy recipe provides a quick and healthy side dish or topping. It's perfect for adding a vibrant and tangy element to any meal. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade, healthy, and flavorful pickled cucumbers! They are sure to become a staple in your fridge!