Spicy Asian Cucumber Delight is a tantalizing dish that is sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe combines three simple ingredients to create an explosion of flavor. The combination of cucumber, a favorite Asian ingredient, and the spicy kick make it a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy this dish as an appetizer or a light meal!
Ingredients:
- Cucumbers: Opt for four cucumbers, each measuring around 19 to 20 cm (7-8 inches) in length. Adjust the quantity if you’re working with larger or smaller cucumbers. The variety you seek depends on your location, such as Lebanese cucumbers in Australia or longer English / telegraph cucumbers, roughly 30 cm (1 foot) long.
- Eschallot / French Onion: Known as shallots in the US, these delicate onions bring a mild onion flavor to the dish. Their fine, papery skin can make peeling a challenge, but their contribution to the dish is undeniable. If unavailable, consider substituting with finely sliced red onions, and a mandolin could prove useful.
- Green Onion: Infuse your salad with a burst of freshness by adding green onions. Their vibrant flavor complements the cucumber’s crispness and the bold spiciness of the sauce.
- Sesame Seeds: Elevate your salad with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These seeds add an extra layer of nuttiness and richness to the dish.
Instructions:
- Laoganma Discovery: Embark on your culinary adventure by locating the coveted Laoganma Crispy Chilli Oil. Visit the Asian aisle of larger grocery stores like Woolworths or explore the shelves of dedicated Asian specialty stores. Ensure you’re selecting the right variant with hints of “CRISP,” “CRISPY,” or “CRUNCH” on the label.
- Exploration Beyond: Delve deeper into the world of flavors by acquainting yourself with Chilli Crisp Noodles. Let the tempting allure of the crispy chilli oil enhance your culinary journey.
- Prepare the Salad: Wash and peel the cucumbers if desired. Thinly slice them to showcase their refreshing crunch. Finely slice the eschallots or French onions, ensuring their delicate flavor harmonizes with the dish. Incorporate sliced green onions to impart an invigorating freshness.
- Sesame Enchantment: Elevate your salad by adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds. These seeds provide a delightful nutty undertone, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Introduce the Crispy Chilli Oil: Harness the captivating crunch of Laoganma Crispy Chilli Oil. Drizzle a measured amount over the salad, allowing its enticing flavor to intertwine with the vibrant ingredients.
- Toss and Taste: Gently toss the salad to ensure all components are thoroughly combined and coated with the alluring flavors of the crispy chilli oil.
- Savor the Fusion: Dive into the irresistible blend of textures and flavors. Each bite will transport you to a realm where crunch meets spice, creating a harmonious dance of sensations on your palate.
- Note on Chilli Spelling: In the States, remember that “chilli” is typically spelled with a single “l” – “chili.”