---
title: Smashed Cucumber Salad (Pai Huang Gua)
servings: 4
prep time: 15 minutes
source: https://mycibora.com/recipes/chinese-smashed-cucumber-salad
---

Gather @cucumber{2}, @black vinegar{2%tbsp} and @sesame seed{1%tsp}.

Lay the cucumbers flat and whack them with the side of a cleaver or a rolling pin until they crack along their length, then tear or cut into bite-size chunks.

Toss the pieces with the @salt{1%tsp} in a colander and let them drain for 10 minutes. ~{10%minutes}

Whisk the @garlic{3%clove}, vinegar, @soy sauce{1%tbsp}, @sugar{1%tsp}, @sesame oil{2%tsp} and @chili oil{1%tbsp} into a dressing.

Shake the cucumbers dry, toss with the dressing and let them sit 5 minutes. ~{5%minutes}

Scatter with toasted sesame seeds and serve cold, ideally alongside something rich or spicy.