Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce is a refreshing dish that’s a perfect mix of crunchy and creamy! Sliced cucumbers are tossed in a zesty peanut sauce that adds just the right kick.
This dish is great as a snack or a lovely side. Every bite feels like a party in your mouth! I love making it when I want something quick and exciting that won’t heat up the kitchen. 🥒🥜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cucumbers: I love using medium cucumbers for their freshness. If you can’t find them, English cucumbers work well too; they’re seedless and have a great crunch!
Peanut Butter: Go for unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor balance. If you’re allergic to peanuts, almond butter or sunflower seed butter are tasty substitutes.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds great umami, but feel free to use tamari for a gluten-free option. Coconut aminos is another yummy alternative with a slightly sweeter taste.
Honey or Maple Syrup: For sweetness, honey is perfect, but if you want a vegan option, maple syrup works just as well. Adjust to taste; sweetness can vary based on your personal preference.
Sriracha: It adds a spicy kick, but if you’re sensitive to heat, you can use sweet chili sauce or even plain chili powder. Just adjust according to your taste buds!
How Do You Make a Smooth Peanut Sauce?
A creamy peanut sauce is key to this dish! Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by combining all your sauce ingredients except for the water. Using a whisk helps it come together smoothly!
- Add water a little at a time until you reach a consistency you love. Whisk well; this ensures there are no lumps.
- If it’s too thick, just add more water until it’s perfect for drizzling over those cucumbers.
Don’t forget to taste along the way to balance the flavors to your liking! Mixing well will enhance the overall taste and texture of your sauce, making it simply delicious.
How to Make Cucumbers in Spicy Peanut Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cucumber Salad:
- 4 medium cucumbers, thinly sliced
For the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsweetened peanut butter
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust for spice level)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup water (to thin the sauce)
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and an additional 10-15 minutes for marinating. In total, you should set aside about 25-30 minutes to make this refreshing and spicy side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spicy Peanut Sauce:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey (or maple syrup), sriracha, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Using a whisk or a fork, mix everything together until it becomes smooth and well-combined.
2. Adjust the Sauce Consistency:
Gradually add the water to your peanut sauce, whisking after each addition. Keep going until you reach your desired consistency—smooth and pourable but not too thin!
3. Prepare the Cucumbers:
In a large bowl, add the thinly sliced cucumbers. You can leave the skin on or peel them if you prefer—it’s up to you!
4. Combine and Marinate:
Pour the spicy peanut sauce over the cucumbers. Gently toss everything together until all the cucumber slices are evenly coated in the sauce. Let them marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the cucumbers soak up all those delicious flavors.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Now it’s time to make it pretty! Before serving, sprinkle chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro over the top. If you like a little extra heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes. Serve your cucumbers chilled or at room temperature, either as a refreshing side dish or a tasty snack. Enjoy!
Can I Substitute Almond Butter for Peanut Butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter works well as a substitute, and it will give the sauce a slightly different taste. Just make sure to use an unsweetened version to keep the flavor profile balanced. The texture may vary slightly, so you might need to adjust the water for consistency.
How Spicy is This Recipe with Sriracha?
The amount of sriracha can be easily adjusted based on your spice preference. For a milder flavor, try starting with just 1 teaspoon of sriracha and add more to taste. You can also substitute it with a less spicy chili sauce if you prefer a gentler heat.
Can I Make the Peanut Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the peanut sauce up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If it thickens too much, simply stir in a little water to reach your desired consistency before using it with the cucumbers.
How to Store Leftover Cucumbers in Peanut Sauce?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Note that the cucumbers will become softer as they absorb the sauce, but they will still taste delicious! Give it a good stir before serving again to redistribute the sauce.
