Crispy Soy Sauce Smashed Cucumber Salad
Stress-Relieving and Super Easy Soy Sauce Cucumber Salad Recipe
Introducing the ‘Soy Sauce Smashed Cucumber Salad,’ a refreshing dish that will stimulate your appetite, especially during hot summer days when it’s easy to lose your hunger. This recipe features cucumbers that are washed with coarse salt, their bumps removed, and then gently smashed inside a plastic bag – the characteristic ‘tangtang-i’ process. This unique method allows the cucumbers to absorb the seasoning even better, resulting in a delightful crunch and deep flavor. The cutely named ‘Oi Tangtang-i’ (Cucumber Bang Bang) is fun to make, with the cheerful ‘tang tang tang’ sound echoing in the kitchen, offering a playful way to relieve stress. A special soy sauce dressing made with minced garlic, red chili, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and sesame seeds perfectly complements the fresh cucumbers. It’s an ideal palate cleanser after enjoying meat dishes or rich, oily foods, offering a cool and clean taste. Beat the summer heat and boost your energy with this refreshing and delicious cucumber salad!
Main Ingredients- 2 Cucumbers
- 1.5 Tbsp minced garlic (about 2 cloves)
- 1 Red chili (optional, for spiciness)
For Cucumber Preparation- 0.5 Tbsp coarse salt
Soy Sauce Dressing- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
- 0.5 Tbsp coarse salt
Soy Sauce Dressing- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1.5 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp vinegar
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, thoroughly wash the cucumbers by rubbing them with about 0.5 Tbsp of coarse salt. This helps remove any bitterness and makes the cucumbers extra crispy.
Step 2
Using a vegetable peeler, lightly shave off the bumpy ridges on the cucumber skin. This step removes any tough parts and helps the dressing penetrate better.
Step 3
Trim off the ends of the cucumbers after removing the bumps. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 4 to 5 sections per cucumber. Aim for pieces that are easy to eat in one bite.
Step 4
Place all the cut cucumbers into a sturdy resealable plastic bag. Make sure to seal the bag tightly to prevent any leakage.
Step 5
Now for the fun part – smashing the cucumbers! Place the sealed bag of cucumbers on a cutting board or a flat surface. Using your hand, a rolling pin, or a meat mallet, gently but firmly smash the cucumbers about 5 to 7 times, making a ‘tang tang’ sound. Be careful not to smash them too hard, as this can make them mushy and affect the texture. Moderate force is key! It’s also a great way to release some tension.
Step 6
Cut the red chili in half, remove the seeds cleanly, and then julienne it thinly. This adds a nice visual appeal and a hint of spiciness. If you prefer more heat, you can substitute it with a Korean Cheongyang chili pepper.
Step 7
Crush the garlic cloves with the flat side of your knife, then mince them finely. Finely minced garlic will help the dressing meld well with the cucumbers.
Step 8
In a mixing bowl, combine the smashed cucumbers, julienned red chili, and minced garlic.
Step 9
Time to add the delicious soy sauce dressing! Add 3 Tbsp of soy sauce, 1.5 Tbsp of sugar, 1 Tbsp of vinegar for a touch of acidity, and 1 Tbsp of toasted sesame seeds for nutty flavor. You can mix everything with a spoon or gently toss it with your hands until the dressing is evenly distributed. Once well combined and the dressing has coated the cucumbers nicely, transfer to a serving dish. Your delicious Soy Sauce Smashed Cucumber Salad is ready to enjoy!
