This easy Asian pickled cucumber recipe is fresh and crunchy! It combines the crispness of cucumbers with a tasty mix of vinegar, sugar, and spices for a perfect zing.
You can enjoy these as a snack or a side dish. I love making extra batches because they’re so good! Plus, they’re a breeze to prep—just slice, mix, and let the flavors blend.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: For this recipe, English cucumbers are great because they’re crisp and have fewer seeds. However, you can use Persian cucumbers or any thin-skinned variety. Just slice them well for maximum crunch!
Rice Vinegar: This vinegar adds that signature tangy flavor. If you don’t have it on hand, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute. It has a slightly different taste but will still work well.
Sugar: Sugar balances out the vinegar’s acidity. For an alternative, try using honey or agave syrup. Just keep in mind the sweetness level may vary a bit.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: These give a nice kick. If you want less spice, you can leave them out or reduce the amount. Alternatively, sesame seeds can also add flavor without the heat.
How Do I Make Sure My Pickles Have the Best Flavor?
The key to flavorful pickles is letting them sit and marinate. After mixing the veggies with the pickling liquid, aim to refrigerate them for at least an hour. But I suggest letting them pickle overnight for enhanced flavors. The longer they sit, the better they taste!
- Store in a sealed jar or container to keep them crisp and flavorful.
- Try them on sandwiches, salads, or as a snack to enjoy their crunch and tang!
Easy Asian Pickled Cucumber Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pickles:
- 2 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
For the Pickling Liquid:
- 1/2 cup rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 1 hour to refrigerate and marinate. For the best flavor, letting it sit overnight is recommended. So, in total, plan for about 1 hour plus chilling time to enjoy these tasty pickles!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cucumbers and Onions:
Start by thinly slicing the cucumbers into rounds. You want them to be nice and thin for that perfect crunch! Next, do the same with the red onion. Place the sliced veggies into a mixing bowl to keep everything in one place.
2. Make the Pickling Liquid:
In a small saucepan or a microwave-safe bowl, mix together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, salt, crushed red pepper flakes, and minced garlic. Heat this mixture gently on the stove or in the microwave just enough to help the sugar and salt dissolve. Once everything is dissolved, let the mixture cool to room temperature.
3. Combine and Toss:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the cooled pickling liquid over the cucumbers and onions. Give it a gentle toss with a spoon to make sure all the slices are coated with that delicious liquid.
4. Add the Sesame Oil:
If you decided to use sesame oil, drizzle it in now and give everything another gentle mix. The sesame oil adds a lovely nutty flavor to the pickled cucumbers!
5. Refrigerate:
Transfer your cucumber and onion mixture to a jar or an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge and let it chill for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, leave it overnight so those flavors can really blend!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your pickles have marinated, they are ready to serve! Enjoy them chilled as a refreshing snack, on top of salads, or as a flavorful side dish. They add a delightful crunch and tang that everyone will love!
FAQ About Easy Asian Pickled Cucumber Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Vinegar?
Absolutely! While rice vinegar gives a specific flavor profile, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. Just keep in mind that the taste might vary slightly.
How Long Will These Pickles Last in the Refrigerator?
Stored in an airtight container, these pickles can last for up to 1 week in the fridge. However, they’re best enjoyed within the first few days to maintain their crunchy texture!
Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
Yes! The amount of crushed red pepper flakes can easily be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer less spice, omit them entirely or use just a small pinch. Alternatively, you can add more if you like a kick!
What Can I Use These Pickles For?
These pickled cucumbers are versatile! They make a great side dish, can be added to salads, used as a sandwich topping, or enjoyed as a refreshing snack. Get creative and incorporate them into your meals!
