Chilled Cucumber Noodle Soup: A Refreshing Summer Delight to Beat the Heat!
How to Make Refreshing Chilled Cucumber Noodles
On a hot summer day, try making this delightful chilled cucumber noodle soup! It’s the perfect way to cool down and invigorate your senses. The combination of chewy noodles, crisp cucumbers, and a tangy, refreshing broth is a true summer favorite that will surely chase away the heat!
Main Ingredients
- 1 fresh cucumber
- Salt (for seasoning cucumber)
- 1 serving of noodles (e.g., somen or chujuk)
- A small amount of green onion or the white part of a leek, finely chopped
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the cucumber thoroughly, trim the ends, and julienne it into thin strips. If cutting by hand is cumbersome, using a mandoline slicer will make this process much easier.
Step 2
In a large pot, bring plenty of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the noodles and stir with chopsticks to prevent them from sticking. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, until al dente.
Step 3
Immediately after cooking, rinse the noodles under cold running water 2-3 times to remove excess starch and firm them up. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly chewy noodles. Drain them thoroughly in a colander, ensuring all water is removed.
Step 4
To the drained julienned cucumber, add 1 tablespoon of soy sauce for soup and gently toss to coat. Let it sit for a few minutes to slightly wilt and absorb the flavor.
Step 5
In a large bowl, pour in your desired amount of cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of tuna extract (or fish sauce). Adjust the amount of fish sauce based on its saltiness and your preference. Taste and if it’s too bland, add a little more fish sauce; if you prefer a touch of sweetness, a tiny pinch of sugar can be added.
Step 6
To the prepared chilled broth, add the seasoned cucumber and the finely chopped green onions (or leeks) and sesame seeds. Mix well. Place the drained noodles in a serving bowl, then ladle the chilled broth over them. Finally, add 3-4 ice cubes for extra coolness, and your delicious and refreshing chilled cucumber noodle soup is ready! A drizzle of sesame oil can be added at the end for extra aroma and flavor, if desired.
