Qiang Huang Gua with Sesame Dressing

Ingredients

• 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (800g) 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced (800g)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml) 2 tablespoons soy sauce (30ml)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml) 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (15ml)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (15ml) 1 tablespoon sesame oil (15ml)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (5g) 1 teaspoon sugar (5g)
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (5g) 1 teaspoon grated ginger (5g)
• 1 clove garlic, minced 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 70 kcal / 293 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 7g, 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Mix well to make the sesame dressing.
2. 2.
   Add the thinly sliced cucumbers to the dressing and toss until well coated. Let the cucumbers marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. 3.
   Before serving, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the marinated cucumbers for added crunch and visual appeal.
4. 4.
   Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cucumbers — Choose firm and fresh cucumbers for the best texture. If the cucumbers have large seeds, you can remove them before slicing.
• Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until they turn golden brown. This will enhance their nutty flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sesame dressing.
• You can add a splash of lime juice for a tangier flavor.
• To make it a more substantial dish, add some thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers to the marinated cucumbers.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, increase the amount of sugar in the dressing.
• This dish is best served chilled, so refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Qiang Huang Gua with Sesame Dressing as an appetizer or side dish. It pairs well with other Chinese dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken or Mapo Tofu. Garnish with additional toasted sesame seeds for an extra crunch.

Presentation advice

Arrange the marinated cucumber slices on a platter, allowing them to overlap slightly. Drizzle any remaining dressing over the top and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds. The vibrant green color of the cucumbers and the contrasting sesame seeds will make the dish visually appealing.