Crunchy Asian-Inspired Cucumber Salad

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This is a recipe for a cool and spicy cucumber salad. It’s made with cucumbers, ginger, garlic, and some spicy ingredients like red chilies and chili flakes. We add vinegar, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar to make the dressing tasty. This salad is easy to make and is great for hot days or to eat with heavy meals because it’s refreshing.

Ingredients:

  • 2 fresh cucumbers
  • 1 tsp of fine sea salt
  • A small knob of ginger, finely grated
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 fresh red chilies, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp of rice vinegar
  • 2 tbsp of light soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp of crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp of granulated white sugar
  • 50ml of fresh water
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Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
    • Wash the cucumbers thoroughly under cold running water. Slice them into thin rounds or half-moons, depending on your preference. Place them in a large mixing bowl and sprinkle with the sea salt. Mix well and let them sit for about 10 minutes. This process helps draw out excess water, making the cucumbers crunchier.
  2. Make the Dressing:
    • In a small bowl, combine the grated ginger, minced garlic, sliced red chilies, rice vinegar, light soy sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, freshly ground black pepper, and granulated white sugar. Stir in the fresh water to dilute the mixture slightly, making it the perfect consistency for dressing.
  3. Combine and Marinate:
    • After the cucumbers have sat in salt, gently rinse them under cold water and drain well. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove any excess moisture.
    • Pour the prepared dressing over the cucumbers in the mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the cucumbers are evenly coated with the dressing.
  4. Chill and Serve:
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cucumbers to absorb the spicy, tangy dressing.
    • Before serving, give the salad a good mix and taste for seasoning. Adjust with a little more salt or vinegar if needed.
  5. Enjoy:
    • Serve the refreshing spicy cucumber salad as a cooling side dish on a hot day or as a palate-cleansing accompaniment to a rich meal. It’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor and texture to any table.

This recipe takes the essence of the ingredients you’ve provided and turns them into a simple yet delicious dish that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking!

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