Classic Japanese cucumber salad (Sunomono)
A light, tangy cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. This Japanese-inspired Sunomono is a refreshing side dish or appetizer.
Equipment
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 small)
- Whisk
- Paper towels
- Mandoline slicer (optional)
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers Japanese or (3-4 Persian cucumbers)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons dried wakame seaweed (optional)
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil optional
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Instructions
Prepare the Wakame (Optional):
- If using dried wakame seaweed, soak it in water for 5-10 minutes to rehydrate. Drain and squeeze out excess water. Set aside.2 teaspoons dried wakame seaweed
Slice the Cucumbers:
- Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, thinly slice the cucumbers into uniform, thin rounds.2 cucumbers
Salt the Cucumbers:
- Place the sliced cucumbers in a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and gently massage the cucumbers. Let them sit for 5-10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.1/4 teaspoon salt
Prepare the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil (if using) until the sugar is fully dissolved.3 tablespoons rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1/4 teaspoon soy sauce, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
Rinse and Dry the Cucumbers:
- Rinse the salted cucumbers under cold water to remove excess salt. Drain well and gently squeeze out any remaining moisture using your hands or paper towels.
Combine Ingredients:
- In the serving bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and rehydrated wakame (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss gently to coat the cucumbers evenly.
Marinate:
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a more intense flavor, marinate for an hour.
Serve:
- Before serving, sprinkle the salad with sesame seeds. Enjoy the salad chilled as a light side dish or appetizer.1 teaspoon sesame seeds
Notes
- Cucumber Choice: Japanese or Persian cucumbers work best due to their thin skin and fewer seeds.
- Customizable: Adjust the sugar and soy sauce quantities to suit your preferred level of sweetness and saltiness.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For the best flavor, consume it within the same day of preparation.
- Authentic Touch: For a traditional presentation, stack the cucumber slices neatly on a small plate before serving.
Nutrition
Calories: 53kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1gFat: 1gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.4gSodium: 229mgPotassium: 277mgFiber: 1gSugar: 7gVitamin A: 144IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 36mgIron: 1mg
Ingredient Costs: Cost of Recipe by Ingredient Measurements
Shopping Costs: Cost of Recipe with Brand New Ingredient Purchases
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