Description
Looking for a refreshing, light, and flavorful dish? These crispy cucumber bites with ginger and chili are the perfect blend of crunch, tang, and spice. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick snack, or adding a zingy side dish to your meal, this recipe is incredibly easy and packed with flavor. The cooling cucumbers pair perfectly with the bold, tangy dressing of soy, ginger, and chili, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 piece of ginger (about 1 inch), finely grated
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 red chilies, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 50 ml water
Instructions
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Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Peel them if you prefer a softer texture, or leave the skin on for added crunch and nutrients.
- Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 tsp of salt. Toss to coat and let them rest for 10–15 minutes to draw out moisture.
- After resting, drain any excess liquid and pat the cucumbers dry with a paper towel.
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Prepare the Ginger and Garlic:
- Grate the ginger and mince the garlic. In a small bowl, combine the ginger, garlic, and finely chopped red chilies.
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Make the Dressing:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vinegar, soy sauce, red chili flakes, black pepper, and sugar.
- Add 50 ml of water and stir until the sugar dissolves completely.
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Combine and Marinate:
- Add the ginger, garlic, and chili mixture to the cucumbers.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
- Allow the mixture to marinate for at least 15–20 minutes for the flavors to blend.
-
Serve:
- Transfer the marinated cucumbers to a serving bowl. Serve chilled for the best flavor.
Notes
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the cucumber bites a few hours in advance. Keep them refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of chili flakes and fresh chilies based on your spice tolerance.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours, though they’re best enjoyed fresh for maximum crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired