This Spicy Stir-Fried Cucumber dish is a quick and flavorful side that combines the freshness of cucumbers with the aromatic spices of garlic, ginger, and chilies. The cucumbers retain their crispiness while absorbing the savory and spicy sauce, making it a perfect complement to any main dish. This recipe is simple to prepare and delivers a refreshing yet spicy kick that will leave you wanting more.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 cucumbers
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 piece of ginger, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
- 2 red chilies, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp red chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar
- 50 ml water
- A little cooking oil (for sautéing)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers:
- Split the cucumbers into 4 parts lengthwise.
- Remove the seeds from each part.
- Slice the cucumbers thinly on a diagonal.
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a bowl and add 1 tsp salt. Stir well and let stand for 15 minutes to remove excess liquid.
- Prepare the Aromatics:
- Thinly slice the ginger, garlic, and red chilies.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, combine 1 tbsp vinegar, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp red chili flakes, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp sugar, and 50 ml water. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Drain the excess liquid from the cucumbers and set them aside.
- Heat a little cooking oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the ginger, garlic, and chilies to the pan. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Cook the Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce into the pan with the sautéed aromatics.
- Cook until the sauce reduces slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the Cucumbers:
- Add the drained cucumber slices to the pan.
- Mix everything evenly, ensuring the cucumbers are well coated with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the spicy stir-fried cucumbers warm or at room temperature as a side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish alongside grilled meats, rice, or noodles.
- Pair with a main dish for a refreshing and spicy contrast.
Cooking Tips:
- Make sure to drain the cucumber slices well after salting to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Adjust the amount of chili flakes and red chilies to your desired spice level.
- You can add a splash of sesame oil at the end for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cucumbers: Low in calories, hydrating, and rich in vitamins.
- Ginger and Garlic: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Chilies: Provide a metabolism boost and are a good source of vitamin C.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan-friendly: Suitable for a vegan diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
- Low-calorie: A healthy and light side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Takes just 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Refreshing and Spicy: A delightful balance of fresh cucumbers and spicy flavors.
- Versatile: Pairs well with a variety of main dishes.
Conclusion:
This Spicy Stir-Fried Cucumber recipe is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy cucumbers with a spicy twist. Perfect as a side dish or a complement to your favorite meals, it’s sure to be a hit with those who love a bit of heat in their dishes. Enjoy the crisp and flavorful cucumbers and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use another type of cucumber for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use any type of cucumber, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers. Just make sure to adjust the slicing based on the size and thickness of the cucumber.
- What can I substitute for red chilies if I want less heat?
- You can use milder peppers like bell peppers or omit the red chilies altogether if you prefer a less spicy dish. You can also reduce the amount of red chili flakes.
- Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the cucumbers?
- Removing the seeds helps to reduce the moisture content and prevents the dish from becoming too watery. However, if you prefer, you can leave the seeds in for added texture.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the dish a few hours ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving. However, the cucumbers may lose some of their crispness if left for too long.
- Can I use a different type of vinegar?
- Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with rice vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or any other mild vinegar of your choice.
- How long can I store leftovers?
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The cucumbers may lose some of their crispness but will still be flavorful.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
- To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that you use a gluten-free soy sauce.
- Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
- Yes, you can add thinly sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even onions to add more variety and texture to the dish.
- What can I serve this dish with?
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats, rice, or noodles. It’s also great as a side dish for any Asian-inspired meal.
- Can I add sesame oil to this recipe?
- Yes, adding a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking can enhance the flavor of the dish and add a nutty aroma.