Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 medium-sized cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shottsuru (Japanese fish sauce)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted
Special Equipment Needed:
- None
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together shottsuru, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the sugar is dissolved.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and pour the shottsuru mixture over them. Toss well to coat.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the salad.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Refrigeration time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Temperature:
- Serve chilled
Serving size:
- 4 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories per serving: 45
- Total fat: 1.5g
- Total carbohydrates: 7g
- Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Shottsuru can be substituted with other types of fish sauce or soy sauce.
- Rice vinegar can be substituted with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
- Sugar can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Sesame seeds can be substituted with chopped peanuts or cashews.
Variations:
- Add thinly sliced red onion or scallions for extra flavor and color.
- Add sliced radishes or carrots for a crunchy texture.
- Add chopped cilantro or mint for a fresh herb flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the cucumbers thinly and evenly.
- Toast sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant and golden brown.
- Adjust the amount of shottsuru and sugar to your taste preference.
Storage Instructions:
- Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating Instructions:
- None needed
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the salad in a shallow bowl or on a platter.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds and fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Chopped peanuts or cashews
- Fresh herbs (cilantro or mint)
Pairings:
- Serve with grilled fish or chicken for a complete meal.
- Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a more filling dish.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Miso soup
- Edamame
- Pickled vegetables
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the salad is too salty, add more rice vinegar and sugar to balance the flavors.
- If the cucumbers release too much water, drain the excess liquid before serving.
Food Safety Advice:
- Wash cucumbers thoroughly before slicing.
- Keep the salad refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food History:
- Shottsuru is a traditional Japanese fish sauce made from fermented fish and salt.
Flavor Profiles:
- Salty, sweet, tangy, and nutty (from the sesame seeds)
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a side dish or appetizer.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Japanese
Taste: Salty, Tangy, Umami, Refreshing