Spicy Miso Cucumber Salad
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Recipe Overview
Overview
This Spicy Miso Cucumber Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that can be prepared in just five minutes. The recipe showcases the beauty of Japanese cuisine, where simplicity meets bold flavors. The key to this dish lies in the sauce, which combines soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and a touch of chili oil for a spicy kick. The use of Japanese cucumbers adds a crisp texture, making each bite satisfying.
The technique of smashing the cucumbers is not just for fun; it creates cracks that allow the sauce to penetrate, ensuring that every piece is bursting with flavor. This method is a clever twist that elevates the dish beyond a typical salad. After mixing the smashed cucumbers with the sauce, letting it sit in the fridge for a while allows the flavors to develop further, making it perfect for meal prep.
Whether served as a side dish or a light snack, this salad is sure to impress. The vibrant colors and refreshing taste make it a great addition to any meal, especially during warmer months. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the unique flavors of Japanese cuisine without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and you might find yourself sneaking bites straight from the fridge!
Recipe Details
Steps & Tips
In a mixing bowl, add 1 tablespoon of Japanese soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon of Chinese chicken Bon powder, 1 teaspoon of yellow miso paste, half a teaspoon of chili oil, and half a teaspoon of chili bean sauce. Mix until smooth.
Tip: If you can't find toan Jan, Gotan works great as a backup.
Wash and dry two Japanese cucumbers, or half the amount if using English cucumbers. Trim the ends.
Using a rolling pin or sturdy beer mug, smash the cucumbers to create cracks without turning them into mush.
Use your hands to tear the smashed cucumbers into rough bite-sized chunks.
Tip: Tearing the cucumber creates jagged edges that hold onto the sauce better than knife cuts.
Toss the torn cucumbers into the sauce bowl and mix until every piece is coated.
Cover and let the salad sit in the fridge to enhance the flavors.
Tip: Letting the salad sit in the fridge allows the flavors to meld together.
If serving right away, finish with a sprinkle of chili flakes and sesame seeds.
Tip: Finish with a sprinkle of chili flakes and sesame seeds for added flavor.
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
- •Smashing cucumbers creates cracks that absorb the flavorful sauce better than clean cuts.
- •This salad is inspired by Japanese tataki and is commonly served in izakaya restaurants.
- •Chili bean sauce adds a unique heat and depth to the dressing.
- •Letting the salad sit in the fridge enhances the flavors as they meld together.
