Szechuan Spice Infusion: Tangy & Spicy Cucumber Delight

Spicy Cucumbers Recipe

Overview:

Name: Spicy Cucumbers
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Description: Cucumbers with a kick! This recipe makes a fantastic side dish to any Chinese meal. The secret lies in balancing the flavors of soy sauce, rice wine, and rice vinegar, typically used in equal parts. Opting for low-salt soy sauce enhances the taste, especially when marinated overnight. Japanese cucumbers, available during the summer, are preferred for their crisp texture. Szechuan peppercorns and Chinese chili sauce add the perfect level of spice to this vegan dish.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 160.2
• Fat Content: 7.1g
• Saturated Fat Content: 1g
• Cholesterol Content: 0mg
• Sodium Content: 2016.7mg
• Carbohydrate Content: 12.9g
• Fiber Content: 1.5g
• Sugar Content: 4.4g
• Protein Content: 5.6g

Recipe Details:

• Category: Vegetable
• Keywords: Szechuan, Chinese, Asian, Vegan, Spicy, < 15 Mins, Stove Top, Stir Fry
• Rating: 3.5 (based on 2 reviews)

Ingredients:

• 3 cucumbers
• 5 garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably low-salt)
• 1/2 cup rice wine
• 1/2 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon Chinese chili sauce
• Oil for stir-frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers:

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   • Slice the cucumbers lengthwise, ensuring each piece retains its skin.
   • Avoid using the cucumber’s center, as it tends to become mushy.

2. Prepare the Garlic:

   • Peel the garlic cloves and smash them using a knife until flattened, resembling the shape of a dictionary.

3. Heat the Oil:

   • Heat oil in a wok or saucepan over medium-high heat.

4. Stir-Fry:

   • Once the oil is hot, add the Szechuan peppercorns, smashed garlic cloves, and sliced cucumbers.
   • Stir-fry for 30-40 seconds until the ingredients are heated through.

5. Add Sauces:

   • Pour in the soy sauce, rice wine, rice vinegar, and Chinese chili sauce.
   • Mix well to ensure the cucumbers are evenly coated with the sauce.

6. Bring to Boil:

   • Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

7. Marinate:

   • Once boiling, remove the pan from heat.
   • Although ready to eat immediately, for best results, allow the cucumbers to marinate overnight.
   • Refrigerate for a refreshing cold serving.

Notes:

• For optimal flavor, allow the cucumbers to marinate overnight before serving.
• Japanese cucumbers are recommended for their firm texture, though any variety can be used.
• Adjust the amount of Chinese chili sauce according to your preferred spice level.
• Serve as a side dish with your favorite Chinese or Asian-inspired meals for a flavorful accompaniment.