Stir-Fried Cucumber and Beef
The Perfect Harmony of Crisp Cucumber and Savory Beef: Easy Stir-Fried Cucumber and Beef Recipe
Today, we’re elevating the humble cucumber into a sophisticated dish: Stir-Fried Cucumber and Beef! 🙂 It might sound like an unusual combination, but once you try it, you’ll discover it’s a ‘rice thief’ side dish that makes other accompaniments unnecessary! Prepare to be delighted.
Stir-Fried Cucumber and Beef Ingredients- 2 Cucumbers (medium-sized)
- 100g Beef (thinly sliced, for stir-fry or bulgogi)
- 1 handful Scallions (approx. 5-6 stalks)
Seasoning- 1 tsp Salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 1/2 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or another neutral oil)
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
- A pinch of Black Pepper
- 1/2 Tbsp Soy Sauce (for marinating beef)
- 1/2 Tbsp Minced Garlic (for marinating beef)
- 1 tsp Salt (for salting cucumbers)
- 1/2 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1/2 Tbsp Perilla Oil (or another neutral oil)
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds (for garnish)
- A pinch of Black Pepper
- 1/2 Tbsp Soy Sauce (for marinating beef)
- 1/2 Tbsp Minced Garlic (for marinating beef)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry. Slice them lengthwise into segments about 5-6 cm long, and then cut each segment into thinner strips. Trim the scallions to about 3-4 cm in length.
Step 2
Salting the Cucumbers: Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle with 1 tsp of salt. Toss gently to coat, then let them sit for 10 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture, helping the cucumbers retain their crisp texture.
Step 3
Marinating the Beef: In a separate bowl, combine the thinly sliced beef with 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic, 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Add about half of the chopped scallions and mix well with your hands, ensuring the beef is evenly coated. Let it marinate for about 10 minutes.
Step 4
Stir-frying the Cucumbers: After 10 minutes, squeeze out any excess liquid from the salted cucumbers. Heat 1/2 Tbsp of perilla oil (or your chosen oil) in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the cucumbers and stir-fry quickly for about 1-2 minutes until they are slightly softened but still crisp. Avoid overcooking to maintain their refreshing crunch.
Step 5
Stir-frying the Beef: Remove the cucumbers from the pan, or use a clean pan. Without adding more oil, add the marinated beef and the remaining scallions to the pan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the beef is fully cooked through and no longer pink.
Step 6
Finishing Touches: Combine the stir-fried cucumbers and beef in the pan. Toss them together gently. Sprinkle generously with toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor. Stir-fry for another minute or so to meld the flavors. Your delicious Stir-Fried Cucumber and Beef is ready to be served with a warm bowl of rice!