Crispy Cucumber “Tangtangyi” Salad
Im Ju-hwan’s Super Simple Cucumber “Tangtangyi” Salad from “Unexpected Business 2”
Introducing a refreshingly crisp and delightfully spicy-sweet cucumber salad recipe! Similar to a fresh kimchi, the addition of slightly spicy peperoncino makes it a perfect side dish for rice or a satisfying snack to enjoy with drinks. Try this incredibly simple cucumber salad where the cucumbers are gently smashed with a mallet to better absorb the seasoning, making them even more delicious.
Main Ingredients- 2 cucumbers
Seasoning Ingredients- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1-2 pinches of salt (or MSG-based salt)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 pinches of sesame seeds
- A little bit of peperoncino (optional)
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1-2 pinches of salt (or MSG-based salt)
- 1 Tbsp sesame oil
- 2 pinches of sesame seeds
- A little bit of peperoncino (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare two fresh cucumbers. Scrub the cucumbers thoroughly with coarse salt or baking soda to wash them clean. Baking soda is effective at removing residual pesticides.
Step 2
After washing, pat the cucumbers dry. Then, use a mallet to gently smash the cucumbers. This process bruises the cucumber slightly, allowing the seasoning to penetrate better and creating a more enjoyable texture.
Step 3
Cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces. It’s best to keep them somewhat chunky rather than finely diced to maintain a satisfying chew.
Step 4
Now it’s time to season! In a large bowl, combine the cut cucumbers with 1 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 Tbsp vinegar, 1-2 pinches of salt, 2 pinches of sesame seeds, and 1 Tbsp sesame oil. Gently mix with a spoon rather than your hands to avoid mashing the cucumber. Mix lightly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Step 5
Final step! Arrange the prepared cucumber salad in a nice serving dish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, prepare some peperoncino, wrap it in a paper towel, gently crush it, and sprinkle it lightly over the cucumber salad. This will add a refreshing spicy kick, making it even more delicious. Your crispy and tasty cucumber salad is now complete!
