Sichuan-Style Spicy Chili Oil Cucumber Salad
Recipe Overview
Overview
This Sichuan-Style Spicy Chili Oil Cucumber Salad is a delightful dish that perfectly balances heat and freshness. The cucumbers are first salted to draw out excess moisture, which enhances their crunchiness and flavor. The real star of this salad is the dressing, made with a mix of chili crisp, black vinegar, soy sauce, and lime juice, which brings a vibrant and zesty kick to the dish. The addition of garlic and ginger adds depth, making each bite a burst of flavor.
What I love about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. It can be served as a side dish at a summer barbecue or as a light lunch on its own. The use of fresh ingredients like scallions and cilantro not only adds color but also elevates the overall taste. Plus, the marinated soy eggs are a fantastic addition, providing a rich umami flavor that complements the crisp cucumbers beautifully.
This salad is not just about taste; it’s also about texture. The crunchy cucumbers paired with the silky soy eggs create a satisfying contrast. If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings, this salad is a must-try. It’s a refreshing take on traditional salads, and I can see it becoming a staple in my kitchen during the warmer months.
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
Boil water in a pot.
Add three eggs to the boiling water.
Mix one cup of soy sauce and mirin in a bowl.
Tip: 6-minute eggs are perfect for a jammy texture.
Transfer boiled eggs to an ice bath.
Tip: Chill boiled eggs in an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
Peel the eggs and place them in the marinade for 24 hours.
Cut cucumbers into 2-inch pieces.
Sprinkle salt on cucumbers and mix.
Tip: Let salted cucumbers sit to draw out moisture.
Combine black vinegar, soy sauce, lime zest, lime juice, and grape seed oil in a bowl.
Add garlic, ginger, and toasted sesame seeds to the dressing.
Tip: Stir the dressing well to combine all flavors.
Smash the salted cucumbers.
Tip: Smash cucumbers in a Ziploc bag for less mess.
Layer smashed cucumbers with the dressing.
Plate the cucumber salad for serving.
Ingredients
Nutrition
Skill Level
Frequently asked questions
Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.
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Interesting Tidbits
- •Chili oil adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the salad.
- •Cucumbers are a hydrating vegetable, making this salad refreshing.
- •Marinating the cucumbers enhances their flavor and texture.
- •Black vinegar is a staple in Sichuan cuisine, providing a unique tang.
