Cucumber Namasu
Fresh cucumber salad with tangy vinegar, sweet sugar, and zingy ginger—light, crisp, and perfect for summer gatherings or as a side for grilled meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Partly peel cucumbers, leaving narrow strips of peel.
- Thinly slice cucumbers.
- In a measuring cup or mixing bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups white vinegar, 5 Tbsp sugar, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tsp finely chopped ginger root; stir until sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the dressing over the cucumber slices.
- Cover and chill thoroughly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a refreshing twist, try adding a splash of sesame oil to the dressing or incorporating sliced radishes for extra crunch. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 3 tablespoons or use a sugar substitute like Stevia. Make sure to slice the cucumbers thinly for maximum flavor absorption and quicker chilling.
Serving Suggestions
Cucumber Namasu is best served chilled as a side dish or appetizer, complementing grilled meats or seafood. It pairs beautifully with Grilled Oriental Sweets, offering a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, serve it alongside rice and miso soup, or mix it into a salad for added flavor and texture.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cucumber Namasu in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, enhancing the dish. Avoid freezing, as the cucumbers will become mushy once thawed. To serve, simply take out and enjoy cold, no need for reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cucumber Namasu contains roughly 60 calories, with 2g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cucumbers for this recipe?
Yes, while English or Japanese cucumbers are ideal due to their milder flavor and thinner skin, you can use regular cucumbers as well. Just be sure to remove any wax coating and adjust the amount of salt if needed, as regular cucumbers can be more watery.
How long should I chill the Cucumber Namasu before serving?
For the best flavor, chill the Cucumber Namasu for at least 1 hour. This allows the cucumbers to absorb the tangy dressing fully. If you have more time, letting it chill overnight will enhance the flavors even further.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan as it contains no animal products. If you're looking to make it even lighter, consider using rice vinegar instead of white vinegar for a milder taste. This dish is perfect for those exploring vegan recipes or light summer sides.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).