Hunan Style Smacked Cucumber Pickles Recipe
Embark on a culinary adventure with this delightful Hunan Style Smacked Cucumber Pickles recipe, where the fresh crunch of cucumbers meets the zesty and aromatic flavors of garlic, chili oil, and soy sauce, making it a perfect side dish for any Chinese meal or as a refreshing snack on its own. This vibrant recipe is quick and easy, requiring only 20 minutes from start to finish, yet it delivers a burst of flavor that will impress your family and friends alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cucumber | 1 (sliced or diced) |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (sliced) |
| Caster Sugar | 4 teaspoons |
| Light Soy Sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Vinegar | 4 teaspoons |
| Chili Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Red Chili Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 80 kcal |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg (adjust based on salt) |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 5
Instructions
To create the delightful Hunan Style Smacked Cucumber Pickles, begin by preparing the cucumber; slice it very thinly or dice it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside.
Next, heat a wok over medium heat and add a splash of oil, allowing it to heat up. Once the oil is shimmering, introduce the sliced garlic, along with a handful of chili flakes, and sauté them for just a few seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Now it’s time to add the star ingredients: incorporate the caster sugar, light soy sauce, vinegar, chili oil, and red chili sauce into the wok. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the mixture heats up, which should take just a minute or two.
Once the sauce is well combined and heated through, switch off the heat, and immediately add the prepared cucumber to the wok. Toss the cucumber in the aromatic sauce until it is evenly coated, allowing the crispness of the cucumber to retain its freshness while absorbing the vibrant flavors of the dressing.
For an added touch of color and flavor, garnish the pickles with chopped spring onions, which will contribute a mild onion taste and a pop of green to the dish.
These Hunan Style Smacked Cucumber Pickles are best served alongside other dishes, such as the Chinese Vegetarian Fried Rice with Apples, where the crisp and spicy pickles will perfectly balance the richness of the rice. Enjoy your meal, and savor the delightful interplay of textures and flavors in this quick and easy side dish that will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pickles chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor experience, and enjoy their zesty crunch as a refreshing contrast to richer main courses. Whether you’re preparing for a casual family dinner or hosting a gathering, these vibrant pickles will add a memorable touch to your table.
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, store the pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days, but for the best taste and texture, consume them within a day or two. The flavors will continue to develop as they sit, creating a wonderfully tangy treat that pairs beautifully with any Asian-inspired dish.
With this Hunan Style Smacked Cucumber Pickles recipe, you’re all set to impress your guests with your culinary skills while enjoying a refreshing and flavorful side dish that embodies the essence of Hunan cuisine!
