Best Easy Asian Pickled Cucumbers Recipe
Pickled cucumbers are a popular dish in Asian cuisine, known for their tangy and refreshing flavor. They make a great accompaniment to any meal, adding a burst of flavor and crunch. This easy recipe will guide you through the process of making your own delicious pickled cucumbers at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. Peel the cucumbers if desired, or leave the skin on for added crunch. Then, slice the cucumbers into thin rounds or spears, whichever you prefer.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and chili flakes (if using). Mix well until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
3. Add the minced garlic and chopped cilantro to the bowl and stir to combine.
4. Place the cucumber slices or spears into the bowl with the marinade. Ensure that all the cucumbers are fully submerged in the liquid.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible. The longer the cucumbers marinate, the more flavorful they will become.
6. After marinating, remove the pickled cucumbers from the refrigerator and give them a quick stir to redistribute the flavors.
7. Serve the pickled cucumbers as a side dish or condiment with your favorite Asian dishes. They go well with rice, noodles, or grilled meats.
Now, let’s move on to the frequently asked questions about this delicious pickled cucumbers recipe:
1. Can I use other types of vinegar instead of rice vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. However, each vinegar will give a slightly different flavor profile.
2. Can I adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the amount of sugar. Conversely, if you prefer a more tangy flavor, reduce the amount of sugar or omit it altogether.
3. How long can I store the pickled cucumbers?
Pickled cucumbers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.
4. Can I add other spices or herbs to the marinade?
Certainly! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices such as ginger, dill, or even star anise to enhance the flavor of the pickled cucumbers.
5. Can I pickle other vegetables using the same marinade?
Yes, this marinade works well with other vegetables like carrots, radishes, or even green beans. Adjust the marinating time accordingly based on the vegetable’s texture.
6. Can I make the pickled cucumbers spicier?
If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili flakes or add a chopped chili pepper to the marinade.
7. Can I reuse the marinade for another batch of pickled cucumbers?
It’s not recommended to reuse the marinade as it may contain bacteria from the first batch. It’s best to make a fresh batch of marinade for each new batch of pickled cucumbers.
Enjoy making your own easy Asian pickled cucumbers with this simple recipe! They are sure to be a hit at your next meal or gathering.