These cold spicy cucumber bites are tasty morsels that combine savory, sweet, sour, and spicy flavors all in one bite! Crisp and refreshing, they make a great side dish or appetizer to heavier dishes!
¼teaspoondried crushed red pepper flakes(or fresh finely chopped red Thai chili pepper for more spice)
Instructions
Dressing:
Whisk the unseasoned rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce (tamari), mirin, sesame oil, and dried red chili flakes in a bowl.
Adjust dressing ingredients according to taste. Set aside.
Preparing the Cucumbers:
Slice cucumber into slices, about ½-inch thick. Alternatively, cut the cucumber in half lengthwise, chop them into rough-cut pieces, and crush with the side of a knife, back of a spoon, or tenderizer.
Mix the cucumber with salt and let sit for 20-30 minutes.
Rinse the cucumber and pat dry with paper towels.
Combine the cucumbers dressing in a bowl or resealable container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight for better flavor). Stir occasionally.
Serve chilled.
Notes
This recipe works with thick sliced cucumbers or smashed cucumber chunks.
Adjust the marinade/dressing ingredients based on your personal preference for flavor.
If you use seasoned rice vinegar (which contains sugar), omit the honey to start and taste the dressing before deciding to add any extra.
For a spicier kick, use a finely chopped red Thai chili pepper in the dressing instead of the dried chili flakes.
Marinate for at least 4 hours in the fridge, stirring occasionally. Letting the cucumber marinate overnight will make the bites more flavorful.