Simple Cucumber Sunomono
The goal here is a clean, snap-crisp side that cuts through heavier dishes. Don't rush the salting step; it is the difference between a bowl of watery vegetables and a crisp, refreshing pickle.
The moisture trap
Your cucumbers must be as dry as possible after salting. Use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to wring out the excess liquid firmly.
- mandoline or sharp chef's knife
- mixing bowl
- clean kitchen towel
What goes in.
- 2Japanese cucumbers (or Persian cucumbers)
- 1 tspkosher salt
- 3 tbsprice vinegar
- 1 tbspsugar
- 1 tsptoasted sesame seeds
Removing the water
After the cucumber sits in salt for ten minutes, gather the slices in a towel and twist tightly. You want to extract every drop of liquid so the cucumber remains firm in the vinegar dressing.
The method.
Slice the cucumbers
Use a mandoline to create paper-thin rounds. If you are using a knife, keep them thin enough to be translucent.
Salt and rest
Place the slices in a bowl and toss with the teaspoon of salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes until they become limp and release water.
Wring dry
Transfer the limp cucumber slices to a clean kitchen towel. Twist the towel firmly over the sink to squeeze out as much moisture as you can.
Dress
Whisk the rice vinegar and sugar in a small bowl until the sugar dissolves. Add the cucumber slices and toss well.
Finish
Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately while cold.
Other turns to take.
Wakame Sunomono
Add a tablespoon of rehydrated dried wakame seaweed to the bowl with the cucumbers.
Ginger Spike
Grate half a teaspoon of fresh ginger into the vinegar mixture for a sharper edge.
When it doesn't go to plan.
Use Japanese or Persian cucumbers because they have fewer, smaller seeds and thinner skins.
If you don't have a mandoline, stack the cucumbers to keep them steady while slicing with a sharp knife.
Do not let the cucumbers sit in the vinegar for more than an hour before serving, or they will begin to lose their crunch.
The ones that keep coming up.
Can I use white distilled vinegar?
It is too harsh for this dish. Rice vinegar is essential for its mild, slightly sweet profile.
Why did my salad turn out soggy?
You likely did not squeeze the cucumbers hard enough. They should be completely dry to the touch before meeting the vinegar.
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