Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad (Oi Tang Tang Yi): A Refreshing and Simple Side Dish
How to Make Oi Tang Tang Yi (Smashed Cucumber Salad) Like in Sumi’s Side Dishes
I was inspired to make this Oi Tang Tang Yi after watching the TV show ‘Sumi’s Side Dishes’! It’s a delicious, crunchy, and refreshing dish that’s perfect with rice. It’s incredibly easy and quick to prepare, making it accessible for everyone.
Main Ingredients- 2 Cucumbers
- 1 handful Coarse salt (for washing cucumbers)
Seasoning Ingredients- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1.5 Tbsp Sugar
- 3 Tbsp Vinegar
- A pinch of black sesame seeds
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1.5 Tbsp Sugar
- 3 Tbsp Vinegar
- A pinch of black sesame seeds
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare 2 fresh cucumbers. Cucumbers with bumpy skins are ideal for this recipe.
Step 2
Wash the 2 cucumbers thoroughly by rubbing them with a handful of coarse salt. This helps to clean the cucumber’s surface effectively. After rubbing with coarse salt, use a vegetable peeler to gently scrape off only the bumpy parts of the cucumber skin. (This step is optional, but recommended for a smoother texture.)
Step 3
Trim off both ends of the cucumbers. The tips of cucumbers can sometimes be bitter, so cut off a slightly more generous portion from the ends than you normally would. This helps to prevent bitterness throughout the entire cucumber.
Step 4
Place the prepared cucumbers into a zip-top bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Lay the bag with the cucumbers on a sturdy surface, like a cutting board, and use a mallet (like one used for tenderizing meat) to pound the cucumbers. Hit them several times with moderate force until the cucumbers flatten and break apart into crunchy pieces.
Step 5
Once flattened, cut the smashed cucumbers into bite-sized pieces with a knife. The smashed cucumbers might tear naturally, but using a knife to cut them into 2-3 cm lengths is efficient. You can adjust the thickness and shape of the pieces as you like.
Step 6
Transfer all the cut cucumber pieces into a wide bowl.
Step 7
Now it’s time to add the seasoning ingredients. First, add 1/2 teaspoon of salt to season the cucumbers.
Step 8
Add 1.5 tablespoons of sugar for a touch of sweetness. This balances the sweet and sour flavors.
Step 9
Pour in 3 tablespoons of vinegar to add a refreshing tang. This is a key ingredient that enhances the fresh cucumber flavor.
Step 10
If desired, you can add a tiny amount of minced garlic for extra flavor (optional). Also, finely chop a small amount of red chili pepper and green chili pepper for color and a hint of spice. (Increase the amount of green chili if you prefer it spicier.)
Step 11
Add the minced garlic and chili peppers to the bowl. Finally, add a pinch of black sesame seeds and toasted sesame seeds, rubbing them between your palms before sprinkling them in. Gently mix everything together to coat the cucumbers without mashing them. Ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Step 12
Your delicious Oi Tang Tang Yi is ready! The crunchy texture and the sweet-and-sour dressing are incredibly appetizing, making it a perfect side dish for rice or even a great accompaniment to drinks. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
