How to Cook Japanese Cucumber Salad Sunomono (Step-by-Step)

by

If you’re looking for a refreshing side dish that embodies the delightful essence of Japanese cuisine, then Sunomono, or Japanese cucumber salad, is the perfect choice. It’s light, tangy, and incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for warm weather or any occasion when you want a burst of flavor without too much fuss.

Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad)

This salad not only tastes great, but it also has a beautiful presentation that can brighten up any table. Here’s how you can make it yourself:

Sunomono (Japanese Cucumber Salad) - Okonomi Kitchen

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium cucumbers
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Optional: sliced carrots or other vegetables for added crunch

Instructions:

  1. Start by washing the cucumbers thoroughly. You can choose to peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds great texture and color.
  2. Slice the cucumbers thinly, ideally using a mandoline for the best results. Place the cucumber slices in a bowl and sprinkle with salt. Let them sit for about 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
  3. While the cucumbers are resting, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sugar, soy sauce, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves completely.
  4. After the cucumbers have rested, gently squeeze them to remove water and rinse under cold water to reduce the saltiness. Drain well.
  5. Add the drained cucumbers to the bowl with the dressing and toss to coat them evenly.
  6. Finally, sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the salad and toss lightly once more. If you’re adding carrots or other vegetables, include them in this step as well.
  7. Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

This delicious Sunomono is a perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. The vibrant flavors and refreshing crunch of the cucumber will make it a favorite in your recipe rotation. Try it out and enjoy the harmonious taste of Japanese cuisine right at home!