Sunomono
A refreshing Japanese-style vinegar salad featuring crisp cucumbers, carrots, and savory meat, perfect as a light side dish or appetizer with a tangy, sweet flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the sliced cucumbers, grated carrots, cooked shrimp, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate container, mix the white vinegar and sugar until dissolved.
- Pour the vinegar mixture over the vegetables and meat mixture.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Refrigerate for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, slice the cucumbers as thinly as possible; consider using a mandoline for even slices. If you prefer a sweeter sunomono, adjust the sugar to taste. You can substitute the protein with tofu for a vegetarian option or use crab meat for a more luxurious dish. Fresh herbs like cilantro or mint can also enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sunomono chilled as a refreshing side dish or appetizer. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats or seafood, such as Poulet Cordon Bleu or Jagerocknitzel. Consider adding a sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced scallions on top for added flavor and presentation. It can also be enjoyed over a bed of rice for a light meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sunomono in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Avoid freezing, as the cucumbers will become mushy once thawed. Just give it a good stir before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunomono contains roughly 123 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1916mg per serving (83% 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
Is sunomono gluten-free?
Yes, sunomono is generally gluten-free, especially if you use gluten-free soy sauce or omit it altogether. Always check the labels of any additional ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
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).