Ingredients
Instructions
Hot Sap Cucumber Salad
Go ahead and try to not eat half this salad before it hits the table.
Ingredients:
- 10 Mini Cucumbers
- Salt
- 1 Tbsp Sesame Oil
- 1 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 Tbsp Rice Vinegar
- 1.5 tsp Hot Sap
- 3 Tbsp Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 1 tsp Gochugaru or mild chili flake to taste
Directions:
-
Thinly slice cucumbers and salt generously in a colander. After 30 min squeeze cucumbers to remove as much water as possible. Don't skip this step! The salad will taste watered down and less flavorful if you do.
-
Combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar and hot sap into a bowl and mix. Add in the cucumbers and toss.
- Add half the sesame seeds, toss, and then top with the remaining sesame seeds and additional chili flakes if you choose.
Why it works
Cucumber is mild and watery — it needs a dressing with strong enough flavor to coat and cling. Hot Sap delivers maple sweetness and chili warmth that balance the vinegar, making every bite more interesting without adding more ingredients.
Tips & Variations
- Salt the cucumbers first: Toss sliced cucumbers with a pinch of salt, let sit 10 minutes, then rinse and pat dry. This draws out excess water so the dressing stays concentrated on each slice.
- Make ahead: Dress up to 2 hours ahead. Much longer and the cucumbers start to soften.
- More heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of rice vinegar adds extra brightness.
- Serve with: Grilled fish, shrimp, or anything off the grill. The cool salad pairs well with smoky proteins.
Questions
What kind of cucumber works best?
English or Persian cucumbers have thinner skins and fewer seeds, so they hold up better in the dressing. Standard garden cucumbers work if you peel and seed them first.
Is the dressing too sweet?
Hot Sap's maple sweetness is balanced by its chili warmth. If you want less sweet, add a little more rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice to shift the balance.
Can I use this dressing as a dipping sauce?
Yes — it works well as a dip for spring rolls, dumplings, or grilled skewers. Thin it slightly with water or rice vinegar if needed.
The secret ingredient
Pick up a bottle of Hot Sap
