Spicy Korean Cucumber Stir-Fry

Ingredients

• 4 medium cucumbers (about 500g), thinly sliced 4 medium cucumbers (about 500g), thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste) 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish 1 teaspoon sesame seeds, for garnish
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, combine gochujang, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and sugar. Mix well to create the sauce.
2. 2.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the sliced cucumbers to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
4. 4.
   Pour the sauce over the cucumbers and continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes until the cucumbers are well-coated and tender.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and transfer the stir-fried cucumbers to a serving dish.
6. 6.
   Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
7. 7.
   Serve hot or cold as a side dish.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for a better texture and easier cooking.
• Gochujang — Adjust the amount of gochujang according to your spice preference. Add more for extra heat or reduce for a milder flavor.
• Sesame oil — Use toasted sesame oil for a richer and nuttier flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a refreshing twist, add a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
• If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a teaspoon of honey to the sauce.
• Customize the dish by adding thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
• Serve the Spicy Korean Cucumber Stir-Fry as a side dish alongside grilled meats or as a topping for bibimbap (Korean mixed rice).
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Spicy Korean Cucumber Stir-Fry either hot or cold as a side dish. It pairs well with steamed rice and other Korean dishes, such as bulgogi or kimchi.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stir-fried cucumbers neatly on a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for an attractive presentation. Consider using a traditional Korean ceramic dish for an authentic touch.