This Easy Asian Pickled Cucumbers recipe is fresh and tasty! It mixes crunchy cucumbers with a sweet and tangy sauce, making a perfect side dish for any meal.
I love how quick it is to make! Just slice, mix, and let them chill. They are great on sandwiches or straight from the jar—who doesn’t sneak a cucumber or two? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: Using English or Kirby cucumbers is best because they’re crunchy and have fewer seeds. If you can’t find them, regular cucumbers will work. Just peel them if the skin feels too thick!
Rice Vinegar: This gives a nice tangy flavor. If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar, but adjust the amount a bit as they are stronger.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce is great, but feel free to use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake. Tamari is also a fantastic gluten-free alternative.
Sugar: I like to use regular granulated sugar, but honey or agave syrup can work as substitutes if you prefer a natural sweetener.
How Do I Make Sure My Cucumbers Stay Crunchy?
To keep your cucumbers crisp, it’s essential to salt them before pickling. This draws out water, preventing them from getting mushy. Here’s how:
- After slicing, sprinkle salt over the cucumbers and toss.
- Let them sit for 15-20 minutes to release water.
- Drain the liquid and don’t skip this step! It helps maintain a nice crunch.
Enjoy your crunchy pickles as a side dish, a topping for rice bowls, or just snack on them straight from the jar! They’re super versatile.
Easy Asian Pickled Cucumbers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large cucumbers (English or Kirby cucumbers work well)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. For the best flavor, you can let them sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours or even overnight. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers:
Start by washing your cucumbers thoroughly. Once clean, slice them thinly into rounds or half-moons. It’s all up to your choice!
2. Salt the Cucumbers:
Put the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Mix everything together gently, then let them sit for about 15-20 minutes. This step is key as it helps draw out extra water, keeping your cucumbers nice and crunchy!
3. Drain the Cucumbers:
After the time is up, you’ll notice some liquid at the bottom of the bowl. Drain this liquid off. If you’d like, you can lightly squeeze the cucumber slices to remove more moisture.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, add the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk these ingredients together until the sugar is fully dissolved.
5. Combine Everything:
Pour this tasty dressing over your drained cucumbers. Toss them gently to ensure all the slices are well coated in the dressing.
6. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top. Give them another gentle toss!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover your bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes to marinate the flavors. For the best taste, aim for a couple of hours or even overnight.
8. Enjoy!
Your delicious Asian pickled cucumbers are ready to serve! Enjoy them as a refreshing side dish, topping on rice, or straight out of the bowl. Happy eating!
FAQ about Easy Asian Pickled Cucumbers
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Yes! While rice vinegar is preferred for its mild flavor, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or regular white vinegar if needed. Just be aware that these options will have a stronger taste, so you may want to adjust the quantity slightly.
What Can I Use Instead of Sugar?
If you are looking for a sugar substitute, honey or agave syrup can work well. Just use the same amount or adjust to your taste preference. For a low-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like Stevia.
How Long Do Pickled Cucumbers Last?
These pickled cucumbers can last up to a week in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. However, they’re best enjoyed within the first few days for maximum crunch and flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a good kick, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add a splash of Sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the dressing for an extra fiery touch.
