Morokyu - Japanese Cucumber Salad

Ingredients

• 2 large cucumbers (500g) 2 large cucumbers (500g)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (30ml) 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (30ml)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (15ml) 1 tablespoon soy sauce (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (5g) 1 teaspoon sugar (5g)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (5ml) 1 teaspoon sesame oil (5ml)
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (10g) 1 tablespoon sesame seeds, toasted (10g)
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories: 45 kcal / 188 KJ
• Fat: 2g (Saturated Fat: 0.3g)
• Carbohydrates: 6g (Sugar: 3g)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the cucumbers thoroughly and pat them dry.
2. 2.
   Slice the cucumbers thinly using a mandoline or a sharp knife.
3. 3.
   In a bowl, combine the rice vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
4. 4.
   Add the sliced cucumbers to the dressing and toss gently to coat them evenly.
5. 5.
   Let the cucumbers marinate in the dressing for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. 6.
   Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad just before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for a better texture and to allow them to absorb the flavors of the dressing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a twist, add a splash of lime juice to the dressing for a citrusy kick.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of sugar in the dressing.
• Experiment with different types of cucumbers, such as English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers, for variations in flavor and texture.
• To save time, use a vegetable slicer or a food processor with a slicing attachment to slice the cucumbers quickly and uniformly.
• Garnish the salad with fresh mint leaves or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

Serving advice

Morokyu is best served chilled as a side dish or appetizer. It pairs well with various Japanese dishes, such as sushi, sashimi, or teriyaki chicken. Serve it in small individual bowls or as part of a larger Japanese-inspired spread.

Presentation advice

Arrange the thinly sliced cucumbers in a circular pattern on a plate, drizzle the dressing over them, and sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a few cilantro leaves for an elegant touch. The vibrant green color of the cucumbers and the contrasting sesame seeds will make the dish visually appealing.