Smashed Cucumbers with Mint and Soy

A classic Chinese dish served as a side or as an appetizer, these crunchy cukes are a little sweet, slightly spicy, and just the right amount of tangy.

Smashed Cucumbers with Mint and Soy

Smashed Cucumbers with Mint and Soy is a classic Chinese dish that can be served as a side or as an appetizer. A little sweet, slightly spicy, and with just the right amount of tangy, the umami flavor of these crunchy cukes pairs perfectly with a cool and frothy Lavender Hibiscus Sour.

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 English or Japanese cucumbers
  • Kosher salt
  • 1 garlic clove, minced or grated
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp. fish sauce
  • 1 red or green serrano pepper, thinly sliced
  • 5 to 6 mint sprigs
  • 1 tsp. toasted sesame seeds
Smashed Cucumbers with Mint and Soy

Instructions

  • Begin by cutting the cucumbers into 3-inch-long pieces. Then, using the flat side of your knife and the heel of your hand, push down on the cucumber 3 or 4 times, until it flattens and breaks open.
  • Place the smashed cucumbers into a colander in the sink. Sprinkle with 1 tsp. salt and toss. Let sit for 20 minutes, then rinse with water and shake dry.
  • Meanwhile, make the sauce. In a small bowl combine the garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar and fish sauce. Whisk together until the sugar has dissolved.
  • Place the cucumbers into a bowl and add the sauce along with the sliced pepper. Toss together. Let marinate for as few as 20 minutes or up to 24 hours, then serve in a shallow bowl with torn mint leaves and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

Recipe and photos by Megan Mitchell.

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