Discover the addictive crunch and flavor of Chinese Smashed Cucumbers, a popular appetizer that’s incredibly easy to make. Perfect as a side dish or a salad, these cucumbers are enhanced with garlic, chili, and sesame for a delightful bite every time. Add cashews for extra texture and enjoy this versatile dish!
Ingredients (Serves 4):
- Medium cucumbers: 1 kg (2.2 lbs)
- Raw sesame seeds
- Salt
For the Dressing:
- Garlic cloves: 2-6
- Red chili peppers: 1-3
- Rice vinegar: 3 tbsp (45ml)
- Sugar: 1 tbsp (12g)
- Dark soy sauce: 3 tbsp (45ml)
- Dark sesame oil: 1 tbsp (15ml)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dressing:
Peel and mince the garlic. Slice the chili peppers in half lengthwise, removing seeds and membranes if you prefer less heat.
In a large container with a tight-fitting lid, mix the rice vinegar and sugar, shaking well until the sugar dissolves.
Toast the Sesame Seeds:
Place the sesame seeds in a cold skillet and heat over medium, shaking the skillet until the seeds start to toast, about 2 minutes. Immediately transfer to a small bowl.
Prepare the Cucumbers:
Lay the cucumbers on a cutting board and smash each one lightly with the flat side of a cleaver or a heavy knife until they crack. Turn each cucumber 90° and smash again.
Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. Place the cucumbers in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to drain excess water.
Combine the Ingredients:
Mix the garlic and chilies with the vinegar-sugar mixture. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to combine.
Shake off any excess liquid from the cucumbers and place them in the marinade. Seal the container and let the cucumbers marinate for at least 1 hour, up to 24 hours, shaking occasionally.
Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle the cucumbers with toasted sesame seeds.
Helpful Tip:
For the best results, use small, firm, and crunchy cucumbers with thin skin. Overgrown or overly watery cucumbers are not suitable for this traditional Chinese dish.
Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 125.86 kcal
Protein: 3.68g
Fat: 7.07g
Carbohydrates: 12.25g
Enjoy these Chinese Smashed Cucumbers as a refreshing and flavorful addition to any meal, bursting with traditional Chinese flavors!
