David Tanaka Spicy Asian cucumber salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Made with crisp cucumbers, spicy chili oil, tangy rice vinegar, and a mix of fragrant herbs and spices, this salad is bursting with flavor and texture. The spicy kick of the chili oil is balanced by the coolness of the cucumbers, making it an excellent side dish for spicy meals or a light lunch on its own. This salad is also incredibly easy to prepare, taking only a few minutes to put together, which makes it a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Spicy Asian Cucumber Salad
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 small cucumbers
- 1 garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tsbp rice wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp gochujang
- 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1/2 tbsp scallions (chopped)
Instructions
- Cut the cucumbers into bite-size pieces
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the garlic, rice wine vinegar, gochujang, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and chili oil.
- Add the cucumbers to the mixing bowl and toss until coated.
- Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds.
- Refrigerate for 10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Rest Time: 10 minutes
The origins of this dish can be traced back to China, where it is known as lao hu cai or tiger vegetable salad. It is typically made with cucumber, garlic, vinegar, and chili oil, with variations that include additional ingredients such as peanuts, sesame seeds, and cilantro. The dish has since spread throughout Asia and has become a popular side dish in many countries, including Japan, Korea, and Thailand.
The key to making a great spicy Asian cucumber salad is to use fresh and crisp cucumbers, which provide a refreshing and crunchy texture. English cucumbers, which have a thinner skin and fewer seeds than regular cucumbers, are a great choice for this dish. The cucumbers are sliced thinly and then combined with a mixture of chili oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. The combination of spicy, tangy, and sweet flavors creates a delicious dressing that complements the fresh and crisp cucumbers perfectly.
In addition to the dressing, the salad is also flavored with a mix of fragrant herbs and spices, including garlic, ginger, and scallions. These ingredients add depth and complexity to the dish, and their strong flavors are balanced by the coolness of the cucumbers.
Variations of the spicy Asian cucumber salad can include additional ingredients such as bell peppers, carrots, and even fruit such as mango or pineapple. The salad can also be served with additional toppings such as chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or fresh herbs such as cilantro or Thai basil.
One of the great things about this salad is that it is incredibly versatile and can be adjusted to suit personal tastes and dietary preferences. For those who prefer a milder version of the salad, the amount of chili oil can be reduced or omitted entirely. The salad can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free soy sauce.
In addition to being delicious, spicy Asian cucumber salad also offers a range of health benefits. Cucumbers are a great source of hydration and are rich in antioxidants and vitamin K. Chili oil contains capsaicin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Rice vinegar is also a good source of antioxidants and has been linked to improved digestion and gut health.
In conclusion, spicy Asian cucumber salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its spicy kick and cool crunch make it a great side dish for spicy meals or a light lunch on its own. With its easy preparation and versatility, it is a great option for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The health benefits of the dish make it an excellent addition to any diet. So, next time you are looking for a flavorful and healthy side dish, try making spicy Asian cucumber salad, and enjoy the delicious flavors of Asia in every bite.
