Asian Pickled Cucumber

Name: Asian Pickled Cucumber
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-490965H47M1S
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 cup seasoned rice vinegar; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tbsp grated ginger; 1 tsp sea salt; 1 tsp dried red chile flakes; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 2 English cucumbers; 1 shallot (thinly sliced)

Published: January 3, 2026

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation – This recipe takes only 15 minutes of prep time, making it an easy choice for busy days.
Vibrant Flavors – The combination of seasoned rice vinegar, ginger, and chili flakes creates a tangy and spicy profile that excites the palate.
Versatile Usage – Use these pickled cucumbers in salads, as a topping for rice bowls, or even as a stand-alone snack.
Healthy Option – Low in calories and packed with fresh ingredients, it’s a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Make Ahead – These pickles can be stored in the fridge, allowing you to prepare them in advance for gatherings or weeknight meals.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious pickled cucumbers, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures your pickles turn out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mandoline slicer
Medium bowl
Large bowl or jar
Stirring spoon
Refrigerator

Importance of Each Tool

Mandoline slicer – Ensures uniform cucumber slices for even pickling.
Medium bowl – Ideal for mixing the pickling brine without spills.
Large bowl or jar – Provides ample space for soaking cucumbers and shallots in brine.

Ingredients

Tangy Asian pickled cucumbers are perfect as a side, topping, or snack. Quick, easy recipe with vibrant flavors. Enjoy in salads or alongside grilled dishes!

For the Pickling Brine

1 cup seasoned rice vinegar
2 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp grated ginger
1 tsp sea salt
1 tsp dried red chile flakes
2 tbsp soy sauce

For the Vegetables

2 English cucumbers
1 shallot (thinly sliced)

How to Make Asian Pickled Cucumber

Step 1: Prepare the Cucumbers and Shallots

Start by washing the English cucumbers thoroughly. Slice the cucumbers into thin rounds, about 1/8-inch thick. You can use a mandoline slicer for even slices. Next, peel and thinly slice the shallot.

Step 2: Create the Pickling Brine

In a medium bowl, combine the seasoned rice vinegar, sugar, grated ginger, sea salt, dried red chile flakes, and soy sauce. Stir until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved to create your pickling brine.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Place the sliced cucumbers and shallots in a large bowl or a jar. Pour the pickling brine over them, ensuring all pieces are submerged.

Step 4: Marinate the Cucumbers

Cover your bowl or seal the jar. Let the cucumbers marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. For best flavor results, allow them to pickle overnight.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Before serving, give your pickled cucumbers a good stir. These can be enjoyed on their own or as an accompaniment to salads, sandwiches, or rice bowls.

How to Serve Asian Pickled Cucumber

Asian pickled cucumbers are versatile and can elevate many meals. Their tangy flavor and crunchy texture make them a delightful addition to various dishes. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious pickles.

As a Snack

Enjoy the pickled cucumbers straight from the jar for a quick, refreshing snack.

Topping for Rice Bowls

Add a layer of pickled cucumbers on top of rice bowls to enhance flavor and add crunch.

In Salads

Toss the pickled cucumbers into salads for an extra zing. They pair well with leafy greens or grain-based salads.

Side Dish for Grilled Meats

Serve as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, beef, or turkey for a bright contrast to smoky flavors.

On Sandwiches or Wraps

Incorporate the pickled cucumbers in sandwiches or wraps for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Asian Pickled Cucumber

Perfecting your Asian pickled cucumber recipe ensures that every batch is flavorful and satisfying. Here are some handy tips to enhance your pickling process.

Choose Fresh Cucumbers: Select firm, unblemished English cucumbers for the best crunch and flavor in your pickles.
Adjust Sweetness: Modify the sugar amount in the brine according to your taste preference; this balance is key for flavor.
Experiment with Spices: Try adding other spices like sesame seeds or garlic to elevate the complexity of your pickles.
Let Them Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, allow the cucumbers to pickle overnight instead of just two hours.
Use Quality Vinegar: Opt for high-quality seasoned rice vinegar to achieve a more robust and balanced taste.
Store Properly: Keep your pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Pickled Cucumber

Pairing side dishes with Asian pickled cucumber can create a delightful dining experience. Below are some excellent options that complement their tangy flavor perfectly.

Grilled Chicken Skewers
Tender chicken marinated in spices, grilled until juicy, pairs beautifully with the sharpness of pickles.
Sesame Noodles
Chilled noodles tossed with sesame sauce provide a nutty contrast and make a satisfying side dish.
Steamed Edamame
Lightly salted edamame adds protein and texture, balancing out the flavors of the meal effortlessly.
Vegetable Spring Rolls
Crisp spring rolls filled with fresh veggies offer a crunchy counterpart to the softness of pickles.
Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf cooked with herbs brings warmth and heartiness that complements the bright cucumbers well.
Roasted Cauliflower
Spiced roasted cauliflower drizzled with tahini makes for an earthy side that harmonizes with tangy flavors.
Miso Soup
A warm bowl of miso soup provides comfort and umami richness that balances out sharp tastes from the cucumbers.
Quinoa Salad
Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh vegetables offers a nutritious option that can be enhanced by adding pickled cucumbers directly into it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Asian Pickled Cucumber, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your pickles turn out perfectly.

Using Old Cucumbers: Always select fresh cucumbers for the best taste and crunch. Older cucumbers may be soft and lack flavor.
Not Slicing Evenly: Ensure that cucumber slices are uniform in thickness. Uneven slices can lead to inconsistent pickling.
Skipping the Sugar: The sugar balances the acidity of the vinegar. Skipping it may result in overly sour cucumbers. Adjust to your taste preference!
Insufficient Marinating Time: For maximum flavor, let the cucumbers pickle for at least 2 hours, but overnight is ideal for deeper taste.
Ignoring Storage Conditions: Store pickled cucumbers in an airtight container in the fridge. This prolongs freshness and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Asian Pickled Cucumber in an airtight container.
They can last up to one week in the refrigerator, maintaining their crispiness.

Freezing Asian Pickled Cucumber

Freezing is not recommended as it can alter the texture of the cucumbers.
If you prefer, you can freeze them for up to a month; however, expect a softer texture upon thawing.

Reheating Asian Pickled Cucumber

Oven: Not suitable for reheating pickled cucumbers as they should be served chilled.
Microwave: Avoid microwaving; it will change the crunchiness and flavor profile.
Stovetop: Best served cold; reheating is not necessary or recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Asian Pickled Cucumber.

How long do Asian Pickled Cucumbers last?

Asian Pickled Cucumbers can last up to one week when stored properly in the refrigerator.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like carrots or radishes for a colorful mix of flavors.

What dishes pair well with Asian Pickled Cucumber?

They complement grilled meats, rice bowls, and salads wonderfully, adding a tangy crunch.

Is it possible to customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust ingredients like sugar and spice levels based on personal taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Asian Pickled Cucumber is a delightful addition to many meals. Its tangy flavor and crunchy texture make it perfect as a side dish or topping. You can customize this recipe easily by adding different spices or vegetables. Give it a try—you’ll love its versatility!

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