Zesty Japanese Pickled Cucumbers
This refreshing dish features crisp cucumbers marinated in a tangy blend of rice vinegar, ginger, sugar, and salt. Inspired by traditional Japanese pickling methods, these Zesty Japanese Pickled Cucumbers make a perfect accompaniment to any meal or a delightful addition to salads. This easy-to-make side dish requires minimal prep time but benefits greatly from marination, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy these cucumbers chilled as a light snack or relish, elevating your dining experience with their vibrant taste and crunch.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
green cucumber
1 (peeled and thinly sliced)
mild rice vinegar
3 tablespoons (none)
water
1 tablespoon (none)
sugar
2 teaspoons (none)
salt
1/2 teaspoon (none)
fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon (finely grated)
Instructions
1
Begin by washing the cucumber thoroughly. Peel the cucumber using a vegetable peeler.
2
Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds using a teaspoon.
3
Cut the cucumber into thin half-moon slices for optimal texture and flavor absorption.
4
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the mild rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and finely grated fresh ginger until the sugar dissolves.
5
Add the cucumber slices to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. If needed, press them down gently with a spoon.
6
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the cucumbers and marinade to an airtight container.
7
Let the cucumbers marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to develop. For best results, marinate longer, up to 6 hours.
8
Serve the pickled cucumbers cold, either as a side salad, a refreshing relish, or an accompaniment to grilled meats or sushi.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Japanese Pickled Cucumbers?
These are refreshing, crisp cucumbers marinated in a tangy mixture of rice vinegar, ginger, sugar, and salt, inspired by traditional Japanese pickling methods.
What type of cucumber is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one green cucumber which is peeled and thinly sliced.
How should I prepare the cucumber?
You should wash the cucumber, peel it with a vegetable peeler, slice it in half lengthwise to scoop out seeds, and then cut it into thin half-moon slices.
Why do I need to scoop out the seeds?
Scooping out the seeds with a teaspoon helps achieve an optimal texture and ensures better flavor absorption without the dish becoming too watery.
What ingredients make up the marinade?
The marinade consists of mild rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and finely grated fresh ginger.
What kind of vinegar is best for these pickles?
Mild rice vinegar is the best choice for this recipe to maintain the authentic zesty Japanese flavor profile.
How do I prepare the fresh ginger?
The fresh ginger should be finely grated before being whisked into the marinade mixture.
How long do the cucumbers need to marinate?
The cucumbers should marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, though 6 hours is recommended for the best results.
Should the pickled cucumbers be served cold?
Yes, for the best experience, the pickled cucumbers should be served chilled.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian-friendly recipe featuring only plant-based ingredients and seasonings.
What can I serve these cucumbers with?
They are excellent as a side salad, a refreshing relish, or an accompaniment to sushi and grilled meats.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
There are a total of 6 ingredients: cucumber, mild rice vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and fresh ginger.
Do I need to cook anything for this recipe?
No cooking is required; the recipe involves only preparation and marination.
What is the recommended cut for the cucumbers?
Thin half-moon slices are recommended for the best texture and appearance.
How do I ensure the cucumbers are properly flavored?
Ensure the cucumber slices are fully submerged in the marinade; you can press them down with a spoon if necessary.
What should I use to store the cucumbers while they marinate?
You can use an airtight container or cover your mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap.
Is this a quick recipe to prepare?
Yes, the preparation time is minimal, though you must factor in at least one hour for refrigeration.
Can I add these pickles to a salad?
Absolutely, these zesty cucumbers make a delightful and crunchy addition to many types of salads.
What provides the 'zesty' flavor in this dish?
The combination of tangy rice vinegar and the sharp, fresh bite of grated ginger provides the signature zesty flavor.
Is there any oil in this recipe?
No, this recipe is oil-free and fat-free, relying on vinegar for its base.
What tool should I use to peel the cucumber?
A standard vegetable peeler is recommended for removing the skin from the cucumber.
Does the sugar need to be dissolved?
Yes, you should whisk the marinade ingredients together until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Is this dish considered a snack or a side?
It can be enjoyed as both; it works as a light snack or a refreshing side dish to a main meal.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to thoroughly wash the cucumber and then peel it.
How much ginger is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of finely grated fresh ginger.
How much vinegar is used?
The recipe requires 3 tablespoons of mild rice vinegar.
Is this recipe low in calories?
While specific nutritional data isn't provided, it is a very light dish made primarily of water-rich cucumbers and vinegar.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, it is best made in advance so it has time to marinate in the refrigerator.
Does the recipe use water?
Yes, 1 tablespoon of water is mixed into the marinade to balance the acidity of the vinegar.
What is the texture of the finished cucumbers?
The finished cucumbers are crisp and crunchy with a light, vinegary glaze.