There’s something special about the mix of flavors that takes you back to good times. If you’ve been to Din Tai Fung, you might remember their cucumber salad. It’s crisp, refreshing, and has a sweet, spicy, and savory taste.
As summer comes, this cucumber salad is perfect as a side dish or a snack. It uses simple ingredients like soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic. It’s easy to make and tastes just like Din Tai Fung’s.
Choosing Persian or English cucumbers makes it crunchy. They have less water and are sweeter. Try this recipe and see how simple ingredients can make a delicious salad.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- An authentic Din Tai Fung recipe for a refreshing cucumber salad.
- Uses simple ingredients: light soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chili oil.
- Recommended cucumber varieties are Persian and English for optimal taste and texture.
- Quick preparation—only 10 minutes of active time, plus 30 minutes for salting.
- Perfect as an Asian side dish or a stand-alone snack.
Introduction to Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
Din Tai Fung started in 1958 in Taiwan. Bing Yi Yang turned a cooking oil business into a famous dumpling and noodle house. The menu includes the famous Xiao Long Bao and other delights, like the cucumber salad.
The Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is loved for its refreshing crunch and balanced flavors. It’s made with top ingredients like cucumbers, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Its simple taste makes it a favorite all year.
This salad has only 205 calories per serving. It’s great for a healthy diet. Cucumbers help keep you hydrated and make meals light and nutritious.
Making the salad is easy. You need just a few ingredients and no special skills. The flavors mix well in 15 minutes, keeping the cucumbers firm and sweet.
In short, Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is refreshing, easy to make, and healthy. It’s a beloved side dish for any time.
Ingredients Needed for the Salad
To make the famous Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad, you need fresh and tasty ingredients. This guide will show you what you need and why it’s important for this tasty dish.
Cucumbers
The salad starts with cucumbers. You’ll need about 1 pound of Persian cucumbers. Slice them into ¾ inch coins. Persian or English cucumbers are best because they’re crisp and have few seeds.
Soy Sauce and Vinegar
The marinade is key in this Cucumber Salad Recipe, using soy sauce and rice vinegar. Use 2 tablespoons of soy sauce for umami and 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar for tanginess. For a healthier option, try light soy sauce or reduced sodium soy sauce.
Sweeteners and Spices
To balance the flavors, add sweeteners and spices. The recipe calls for 5 teaspoons of granulated sugar and ½ teaspoon of MSG. If you avoid MSG, skip it. Also, add 1 clove of thinly sliced garlic and 1 red Fresno pepper for aroma and heat. Don’t forget ½ teaspoon of Chinese chili oil for that special taste.
Oils and Additional Flavor Enhancers
To boost the flavor, use oils and other enhancers. Two teaspoons of toasted sesame oil add a nutty taste, and 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes add heat. Top the salad with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds for crunch.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Persian Cucumbers | 1 lb | Rich in vitamin K, antioxidants |
| Soy Sauce | 2 tablespoons | Umami flavor, lower sodium if light soy is used |
| Rice Vinegar | 2 tablespoons | Low calorie, enhances flavor |
| Granulated Sugar | 5 teaspoons | Sweetness balance |
| MSG (optional) | ½ teaspoon | Enhances flavor, optional |
| Toasted Sesame Oil | 2 teaspoons | Nutty flavor, healthy fats |
| Garlic | 1 clove | Antioxidants, flavor |
| Red Fresno Pepper | 1 pepper (garnish) | Heat, vitamin C |
| Chinese Chili Oil | ½ teaspoon | Heat, flavor |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make this iconic salad at home. It’s a healthy and tasty dish perfect for any time.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Making a tasty cucumber salad like Din Tai Fung’s is easy with our guide. Just follow these steps to make this refreshing dish using Asian techniques.
Preparing the Cucumbers
Start by cutting 1 pound (500g) of English or Persian cucumbers into 1/2-inch thick rounds. This makes them all the same size for even flavor. Sprinkle 1.5 tablespoons of kosher salt over the slices.
Let them sit for 30 minutes to get rid of extra moisture. Then, rinse them under cold water to remove salt. Finally, dry them with a paper towel.
Mixing the Marinade
Now, mix the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of light soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil. Add 1.5 tablespoons of mirin, 2 teaspoons of white sugar, and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
For a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. This mix of ingredients is perfect for coating the cucumbers, just like in Asian cuisine.
Combining and Marinating
Put the cucumber slices in a big bowl and pour the marinade over them. Make sure each slice is coated. Let them marinate for at least 10 minutes, or up to a few hours for stronger flavor.
For the best taste, marinate for 4 hours and 30 minutes. This lets the flavors really soak into the cucumbers.
| Step | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Slicing Cucumbers | English or Persian Cucumbers | 1 pound (500g) |
| Salting Cucumbers | Kosher Salt | 1.5 tablespoons |
| Preparing Marinade | Rice Vinegar | 3 tablespoons |
| Preparing Marinade | Light Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Preparing Marinade | Granulated White Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Preparing Marinade | Sesame Oil | 1 teaspoon + 1/2 tablespoon for garnish |
| Preparing Marinade | Mirin | 1.5 tablespoons |
| Preparing Marinade | Minced Garlic | 1 teaspoon |
| Preparing Marinade | Red Pepper Flakes | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Garnishing | Chili Oil | 1/2 tablespoon for garnish |
| Garnishing | Minced Fresno Chile Pepper (optional) | to taste |
| Final Touches | Sliced Green Onions | 1 tablespoon |
By following these steps, you can make Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad at home. Use these Asian techniques to impress everyone with this tasty side dish.
Tips for Perfecting Din Tai Fung’s Cucumber Salad
To perfect your Cucumber Salad Recipe and make it as delicious as Din Tai Fung’s, focus on every detail. Start by selecting the freshest ingredients and applying expert salad-making techniques. Here are some helpful tips to elevate your cucumber salad to perfection.
Choosing the Right Cucumbers
Choosing cucumbers is the first step to a great salad. Go for English cucumbers because they are almost seedless and have a thin skin. This makes them perfect for a smooth texture and a mild taste.
They also have a lot of water and are low in calories. This makes them great for those watching their weight or following a gluten-free diet.
Uniform Slicing Techniques
Getting your slices right is important for a Din Tai Fung-like look. Use a mandoline slicer to cut your cucumbers into even coins. This makes the salad look better and ensures the flavors are evenly distributed.
The Importance of Marinating
Marinating is key to getting the bold flavors of Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad. Mix your cucumbers with the dressing and let them marinate for 5 to 10 minutes. This short time lets them soak up the flavors of vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
It turns simple ingredients into a tangy and crunchy treat.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Din Tai Fung’s Cucumber Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of Asian main courses. If you’re looking for ideas on how to serve cucumber salad or what dishes to pair it with, this guide offers helpful suggestions. Discover how to enjoy this refreshing and flavorful side dish to its fullest potential.
This salad pairs well with many dishes, especially Din Tai Fung’s dumplings, noodles, or rice. Its crunch and zest contrast nicely with savory foods. It’s also perfect for buffets or parties, adding freshness to any meal.
Here are some Din Tai Fung dish pairings to try:
- Steamed Pork Dumplings
- Shanghai Rice Cakes
- Hot and Sour Soup
- Fried Rice with Shrimp and Eggs
Vegetable side dishes are getting more popular, and this salad is a hit. About 80% of restaurants serve it. Also, 90% of people get the cucumber slices just right for a crunchy texture how to serve cucumber salad.
Want to change the flavors? Try apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. About 5% of people do this. Also, salting cucumbers for 20 minutes before mixing keeps them crunchy about 95% of the time.
In short, knowing how to serve cucumber salad and what to eat with cucumber salad can make your meals better. By mixing and matching dishes and tweaking ingredients, you can make the salad fit any meal perfectly.
Storing Your Cucumber Salad
After preparing the delicious Cucumber Salad Recipe, proper storage is essential to maintain its freshness and flavor. Follow this guide on how to store cucumber salad effectively, along with tips for preparing it ahead of time to ensure it’s just as tasty when served.
Short-term Storage Tips
For short-term storage, put your cucumber salad in an airtight container and chill it. This keeps cucumbers crisp and tasty for 3-5 days. Make sure cucumbers are dry before mixing with dressing. Store it at 40°F or below to keep it fresh.
Making Ahead for Events
For events, it’s smart to plan ahead. You can make the salad 2-3 days early. Store cucumbers and dressing separately, then mix them just before serving. This keeps cucumbers crunchy and flavors perfect.
Storing cucumber salad right makes meal prep easier. It also lets flavors grow, making it a hit for your guests.
By following these salad storage tips, you can enjoy a fresh and delectable cucumber salad anytime without the hassle of last-minute preparations.
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight Container in Refrigerator | 3-5 Days | Ensure proper drying and 40°F refrigeration |
| Make-Ahead for Events | 2-3 Days in Advance | Store cucumbers and dressing separately |
FAQs
How do I make Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad?
To make Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad, you need fresh cucumbers, soy sauce, vinegar, and sweeteners. Add spices and oils too. Slice the cucumbers, mix the marinade, and combine them for a refreshing salad.
What ingredients are needed for Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad?
You’ll need cucumbers, soy sauce, vinegar, sweeteners, spices, and oils. You can also add extra seasonings and flavor enhancers if you like.
What are the benefits of eating Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad?
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is a healthy side dish. It’s refreshing and low in calories. It’s also full of vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great meal addition.
How do I properly store my cucumber salad?
For short-term storage, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. If making it ahead for events, prepare it a few hours before. This lets the flavors meld together.
What are some tips for perfecting Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad?
Choosing the right cucumbers and slicing them uniformly are key. Also, let it marinate enough to ensure a flavorful dish.
Can I make Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just store it properly in the fridge and let it marinate well to enhance the flavors.
What dishes pair well with Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad?
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad goes well with many Asian dishes. Try it with dumplings, noodles, and grilled meats. It’s also a refreshing side for heavier meals.
What are the steps for preparing the cucumbers?
Start by washing the cucumbers well. Then, slice them uniformly. This ensures even marination and a consistent texture in every bite.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the Cucumber Salad Recipe, it’s evident that this dish is a simple yet impactful element of Asian cuisine. Originating from Din Tai Fung’s renowned kitchens, it has gained global acclaim. One TikTok video alone garnered 11 million views, showcasing its immense popularity and widespread appeal.
This salad is light, with only 25 kcal per serving, but it’s packed with flavor. It’s full of vitamins K and C, potassium, and magnesium, making it great for your health. It’s easy to make, ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
This salad is more than just tasty; it’s also good for you. Making it at home is easy, as long as you get the seasoning right. It’s perfect as an appetizer or side, adding a special touch to your meals. It shows how easy it is to enjoy Asian dishes at home.