Experience a delightful journey of flavors and textures with this Smacked Cucumber Salad! This refreshing side dish is simple yet profound, awakening the palate with its vibrant dressing and crisp cucumbers. Perfect for any meal, it’s a celebration of freshness that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
- 2 fresh cucumbers
- ⅔ teaspoon salt
- 2 large cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon Chinese black vinegar (Chinkiang vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon chili oil
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon regular soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
- Cucumber Prelude:
Start by thoroughly cleansing the cucumbers under a gentle stream of water. On a sturdy cutting board, lay them out like logs. With the flat side of a knife or the gentle thud of a rolling pin, give them a tender smack to slightly crush them. This awakens the cucumbers, making them receptive to the flavors to come. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. - Salting Ceremony:
In a mixing bowl, place the cucumber pieces and sprinkle them with salt. Mix gently to coat them evenly and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This draws out excess water, enhancing the cucumbers’ crispness and preparing them for flavor absorption. - Drainage Ritual:
After resting, drain the cucumbers to remove any excess liquid. This step is essential to keep the salad vibrant and crisp, free from any unwanted wateriness. - Flavor Infusion:
Add the minced garlic to the drained cucumbers, followed by the Chinese black vinegar, chili oil, sugar, and soy sauce. Toss the mixture gently, ensuring each cucumber piece is coated in the vibrant dressing, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. - Sesame Oil Blessing:
Drizzle the sesame oil over the salad and give it one final stir. The sesame oil adds a rich, nutty flavor, binding the dish together in aromatic harmony. - The Serving:
Present the Smacked Cucumber Salad in a serving dish, an inviting offering to the table. This refreshing salad is best enjoyed fresh, showcasing the crispness of the cucumbers and the vibrant dressing in a delightful symphony of taste.
This Smacked Cucumber Salad is a wonderful addition to any meal, bringing a burst of flavor and texture that will elevate your dining experience! Enjoy the freshness and simplicity of this delightful dish!