Crispy and Delicious Stir-Fried Cucumber Recipe
How to Make Simple and Tasty Stir-Fried Cucumbers
This stir-fried cucumber offers a unique flavor profile, distinct from pickled or stuffed cucumbers. It retains its signature crispiness with a delightful savory touch, making it a perfect side dish. Enjoy this simple recipe for delicious stir-fried cucumbers that will surely whet your appetite!
Main Ingredients- 1 large cucumber
- 1/2 Tbsp salt (for salting the cucumber)
- 1/2 red chili pepper (for color and aroma)
- Cooking oil (for stir-frying)
- 1 large clove garlic (minced)
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- Pinch of black pepper
- Pinch of sesame seeds (for nutty flavor!)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the cucumber thoroughly. Slice it into rounds, not too thinly, keeping its shape. Add 1/2 Tbsp of salt to the sliced cucumbers and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for about 30 minutes to salt. This process draws out excess moisture, preventing the dish from becoming watery when cooked and enhancing its crispiness.
Step 2
While the cucumber is salting, mince the garlic finely. Remove the seeds from the red chili pepper and slice it into thin strips. These will add both color and a pleasant aroma to the dish.
Step 3
After 30 minutes, rinse the salted cucumber gently under running water to remove excess salt. Lightly squeeze out the moisture with your hands. Be careful not to squeeze too hard, as this can make the cucumber mushy.
Step 4
Now it’s time to stir-fry. Heat a pan with a generous amount of cooking oil over low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté slowly until fragrant. It’s crucial to stir-fry the garlic gently to release its aroma without burning it.
Step 5
Once the garlic is fragrant, add the drained cucumber slices to the pan and stir-fry over high heat. As soon as the cucumber begins to turn translucent, add the julienned red chili pepper and continue to stir-fry. Avoid overcooking the cucumber to maintain its crisp texture; stir-frying quickly over high heat is key.
Step 6
Finally, add the nutty sesame oil, a pinch of black pepper, and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Toss lightly to combine, and your delicious stir-fried cucumber is ready! You can let it sit for a moment off the heat to absorb the flavors further. Enjoy this delightful dish with a warm bowl of rice for a satisfying meal.
