Wholesome Stir-Fried Cucumber A Healthy and Simple Chinese Dish You Can Make at Home
Introducing a delightful and healthy Chinese dish that's perfect for anyone looking to add more vegetables to their diet - Wholesome Stir-Fried Cucumber. This simple yet flavorful recipe is not only packed with nutrients but also takes minimal time to prepare. So, let's dive into the world of healthy eating with this delicious and nourishing stir-fried cucumber.
Ingredients:
- 1 large cucumber
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 green onion, chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cucumber: Peel the cucumber if desired and cut it into thin strips or matchsticks. Place them in a bowl and sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of salt over them. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.
3. Make the slurry: In another small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water until smooth.
4. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the cucumber strips to the wok, and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they start to soften.
6. Pour the sauce over the cucumber, and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the cucumber is well coated and the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Add the green onion, and stir-fry for an additional 1 minute.
8. Add the slurry to the wok, and stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cucumber is fully cooked.
9. Remove from heat, and garnish with sesame seeds (if using).
10. Serve immediately, and enjoy this healthy and delicious Wholesome Stir-Fried Cucumber dish.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cucumbers are an excellent source of hydration, containing about 95% water. This makes them perfect for keeping you hydrated and aiding in digestion.
- They are also rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for a healthy immune system and bone health.
- The high content of dietary fiber in cucumbers can help regulate blood sugar levels and promote a healthy gut.
- The combination of garlic and ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Conclusion:
Wholesome Stir-Fried Cucumber is an excellent choice for anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet. With its simple preparation, delicious flavor, and numerous health benefits, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, why not give it a try and savor the goodness of this healthy and nourishing Chinese dish?