Smacking isn't essential - but bruising the cucumber apparently encourages it to absorb the marinade. A refreshing side dish.
Ingredients
1 large cucumber (or 2 small), stalks removed
1 tsp salt
1 tbs garlic, finely chopped
4 tsp caster sugar (or 1 tbs honey if you prefer)
1 tbs light soy sauce
1 tbs rice wine vinegar
1 tbs chilli oil (or more to taste)
a pinch of ground Sichuan pepper (optional)
a handful of sesame seeds, toasted, or 1 tbs sesame oil (optional)
Method
Put the cucumber on a chopping board, then smack it with a rolling pin or flat side of a cleaver until it splits. Then chop into 1-2cm pieces. Put in a bowl with all the remaining ingredients and mix together. Serve immediately.
