Ingredients for spicy cucumbers on a wooden board
Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

2 lb Kirby cucumbers 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 cup white vinegar 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes

Directions

Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then again to…

CIA FOODIES

Spicy Cucumbers

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 lb Kirby cucumbers
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes

Directions

  1. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise, then again to make quarters. Cut each quarter in half across the middle to make a wedge. Place in a bowl and toss with the salt, sugar, and vinegar. If needed, adjust seasoning to taste. Place the sliced garlic on top but do not mix it in.
  2. In a skillet, combine the oil with the Sichuan pepper and red pepper flakes. Slowly heat the oil over medium to high heat until the pepper begins to turn brown and a slight haze of smoke develops, about 3 minutes. Immediately pour the smoking hot oil through a fine-mesh strainer over the cucumber mixture.
  3. Toss well, and adjust the seasoning, as needed.

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