Crispy Stir-Fried Cucumbers: A Refreshing Side Dish
Enjoy the Lively, Crisp Texture of Stir-Fried Cucumbers!
With cucumbers being so affordable lately, I decided to make my go-to stir-fried cucumber dish. This is a fantastic, simple side dish that’s perfect for any meal and stays fresh in the refrigerator.
Essential Ingredients
- 2 fresh cucumbers
- 1 Tbsp coarse salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1-2 Tbsp cooking oil (for garlic oil)
- 1 stalk green onion
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for added nuttiness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Today, we’ll be making stir-fried cucumbers that are wonderfully crisp and fresh. This side dish is so appealing, it might just make you finish a whole bowl of rice!
Step 2
First, prepare 2 fresh cucumbers. Choosing firm, vibrant cucumbers is key to achieving that satisfying crunch.
Step 3
Wash the cucumbers thoroughly, then slice them lengthwise into rounds about 2mm thick. Slicing them not too thick ensures they absorb flavor well and maintain a good texture.
Step 4
Add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt to the sliced cucumbers and gently mix. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture, making the cucumbers extra crisp.
Step 5
While the cucumbers are salting, rinse them lightly under running water to remove the salt. Be careful not to wash for too long, as this can diminish their flavor.
Step 6
After rinsing, firmly squeeze out the excess water from the cucumbers by hand. Using a cheesecloth or paper towels can help you remove moisture more effectively.
Step 7
When squeezing the cucumbers, be gentle to avoid crushing them. Squeezing them softly helps preserve their crisp texture.
Step 8
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a pan over low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and slowly stir-fry to create fragrant garlic oil. Infusing the oil with garlic flavor is crucial.
Step 9
Once the garlic oil is fragrant, add the squeezed cucumbers and stir-fry quickly over high heat. The key is to cook them for a short time to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Step 10
When the cucumbers are slightly tender, add the finely chopped green onion and 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds. Stir-fry for another moment to finish. The fresh aroma of green onions and the nutty flavor of sesame seeds enhance the dish beautifully.
Step 11
Transfer the nicely stir-fried cucumbers to a pretty serving dish. Doesn’t it look appetizing?
Step 12
And there you have it – delicious stir-fried cucumbers with a wonderfully crisp texture! They taste even better served with warm rice.
Step 13
We’ve added another excellent side dish to today’s meal. This simple yet flavorful cucumber stir-fry is a must-try!
Step 14
Stir-fried cucumber is a familiar yet endlessly enjoyable side dish. Experience a unique flavor with fresh cucumbers!
