1️⃣ Cucumber Prelude: Begin by washing the cucumbers thoroughly under a stream of water. Lay them flat on a sturdy cutting board, then take the flat side of a knife or a rolling pin and gently smack the cucumbers. This slight crushing opens up the cucumbers, allowing them to better absorb the flavors. After this awakening, cut them into bite-sized pieces.

2️⃣ Salting Ceremony: Place the cucumber pieces in a mixing bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Gently toss to combine, letting the cucumbers sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps to draw out excess water, leaving the cucumbers crisp and ready for flavor.

3️⃣ Drainage Ritual: After the cucumbers have rested, drain the excess liquid they’ve released. This step ensures that the salad will remain crisp and won’t become soggy.

4️⃣ Flavor Infusion: Add the finely minced garlic, Chinese black vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and soy sauce to the cucumbers. Gently toss the mixture, allowing the cucumbers to absorb the vibrant, tangy flavors. The ingredients blend together to create a harmonious symphony of taste.

5️⃣ Sesame Oil Blessing: Drizzle the sesame oil over the salad, adding a final note of richness. Stir the mixture once more, allowing the nutty aroma of the sesame oil to envelop the dish.

6️⃣ The Serving: Transfer the salad to a serving dish, ready to be enjoyed. This refreshing Smacked Cucumber Salad is a celebration of crisp textures and bold, zesty flavors that are best enjoyed fresh.

🍃 Enjoy:

This salad is not just a dish; it’s an experience—an effortless yet flavorful side that balances simplicity and complexity in every bite. The cucumbers remain refreshingly crisp, while the tangy dressing dances with layers of spice, sweetness, and depth.