Discover the magic of the Din Tai Fung cucumber salad. It’s a Taiwanese appetizer loved by many. You can make this refreshing salad at home, just like they do in over 150 restaurants worldwide.
This salad is a hit. About 75% of Din Tai Fung customers love it. It’s perfect for adding a light touch to your meal or as a refreshing side dish. It brings a true taste of Taiwanese cuisine right to your table.
Key Takeaways
- Authentic Din Tai Fung cucumber salad recipe that’s easy to make at home
- Perfect appetizer with only 80 calories per serving
- Versatile dish that complements various main courses
- Quick preparation time of just 40 minutes
- Adaptable recipe with options for spice and health-conscious modifications
The Story Behind Din Tai Fung’s Famous Cucumber Salad
Din Tai Fung started small, from an oil shop to a big name. It shows how good food can take you far. Their dishes have won hearts all over.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Success
Din Tai Fung was once a small oil shop in Taipei, Taiwan. The founders loved making great food. They worked hard to make their food stand out.
Their cucumber salad became a hit. It’s a key part of their menu.
Why the Cucumber Salad Became a Signature Dish
The cucumber salad is all about fresh, light flavors. It shows Din Tai Fung’s love for simple, tasty food.
- Crisp cucumber slices
- Tangy marinade
- Perfect balance of flavors
Nutritional Powerhouse of the Salad
The cucumber salad is not just tasty. It’s also good for you. It’s low in calories but full of nutrients:
- Over 90% water content
- Approximately 80 calories per serving
- Rich in Vitamin K
- Contains antioxidant-rich garlic
“Great food is not about complexity, but about perfect simplicity” – Din Tai Fung Philosophy
This salad shows how simple ingredients can make a big impact. It’s a favorite around the world.
Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Making a cucumber salad like Din Tai Fung’s is simple. This recipe brings the taste of the restaurant to your home. It’s a quick and easy dish that will wow your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large cucumbers
- 1/2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tbsp sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tbsp chili oil
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
Preparation Steps
- Wash and slice cucumbers into thin pieces
- Sprinkle kosher salt and let sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture
- Rinse cucumbers and pat dry with paper towels
- Prepare dressing by mixing soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, garlic, and oils
- Combine cucumbers with dressing
| Preparation Detail | Time |
|---|---|
| Total Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Salting Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 people |
Add toasted white sesame seeds and green onions to your cucumber salad recipe. Chill for 30 minutes. This makes your salad taste just like Din Tai Fung’s.
Pro Tip: Adjust chili oil to your preferred spice level for a personalized touch!
Conclusion
Making homemade Taiwanese dishes is easier than ever with this cucumber salad recipe. You can pick your ingredients and adjust the flavors. This lets you taste the real deal from Din Tai Fung’s famous appetizer. The recipe is simple but makes a refreshing side dish that wows everyone.
Trying different cucumber salad recipes is fun. You can make it spicier or milder. The secret is keeping the flavors balanced like Din Tai Fung’s. Learning to salt, marinate, and season cucumbers boosts your cooking skills.
It’s not just about following a recipe to make dishes like restaurant ones. It’s about exploring flavors and sharing meals with loved ones. This cucumber salad opens the door to Taiwanese cuisine. It invites you to taste, experiment, and enjoy cooking with excitement.
FAQ
What makes Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad so special?
The cucumber salad at Din Tai Fung is loved for its mix of flavors. It has crunchy cucumbers and a tangy, spicy dressing. This makes it a refreshing start to your meal.
Is the cucumber salad healthy?
Yes, it’s very healthy. Cucumbers are low in calories and full of water and antioxidants. The dressing adds flavor without too many calories, making it great for those watching their diet.
Can I make this salad at home if I’m not an experienced cook?
Absolutely! Making the Din Tai Fung cucumber salad is easy. You just need a few ingredients and basic cooking skills. Even beginners can make this tasty Taiwanese dish.
What specific type of cucumber works best for this recipe?
English or Persian cucumbers are best. They have fewer seeds and a thinner skin. This makes them crispier, just like the original.
How long can I store the cucumber salad?
It’s best eaten fresh, within 1-2 days. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps it crunchy and flavorful.
Are there any variations to the traditional recipe?
Yes, you can add garlic, chili oil, or sesame seeds. This lets you make it your own while keeping the core flavors.
What dishes pair well with this cucumber salad?
The salad goes well with many dishes. It’s great with Chinese dumplings, xiao long bao, or as a side to meat dishes.
Is the salad suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the traditional salad is vegetarian. You can make it vegan by using plant-based dressing ingredients.