World Flavors Cookbook

Smashed Cucumber Salad (Pai Huang Gua)

Refreshing cold appetizer of cucumbers smashed to absorb a garlic-vinegar-chili dressing.

Cuisine: China

Ingredients

• 2 English cucumbers
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Chinkiang black vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp chili oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt

Instructions

1. Smash cucumbers with the flat side of a knife until they crack. Tear into irregular bite-sized pieces.
2. Toss with salt and let sit for 5 minutes. Drain excess water.
3. Whisk remaining ingredients together to make the dressing.
4. Toss cucumbers with the dressing and serve chilled.