Crispy Smashed Cucumber Salad with Chili Crisp: The Viral TikTok Sensation

Ingredients

• English cucumbers2 large (about 1 lb total)
• kosher salt1 teaspoon
• granulated sugar1 teaspoon
• chili crisp (such as Lao Gan Ma)2 tablespoons
• toasted sesame oil1 tablespoon
• rice vinegar2 tablespoons
• soy sauce or tamari1 tablespoon
• minced garlic2 cloves
• black sesame seeds1 tablespoon
• fresh cilantro leaves1/4 cup, packed
• roasted peanuts (optional)2 tablespoons, crushed

Directions

1. 1

   Step 1: Rinse the cucumbers and pat dry. Place a cucumber on a cutting board and lay the flat side of a chef's knife or a heavy rolling pin over it. Smack firmly with your palm to crack the cucumber lengthwise into irregular pieces. Repeat with the remaining cucumber. Tear or cut the smashed cucumbers into 1- to 2-inch chunks.

2. 2

   Step 2: Transfer the cucumber chunks to a large bowl and toss with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 teaspoon sugar. Let sit for 10 minutes at room temperature. This draws out excess water and intensifies the crunch.

3. 3

   Step 3: While the cucumbers rest, make the dressing. In a small bowl, whisk together the chili crisp, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and minced garlic until well combined.

4. 4

   Step 4: After 10 minutes, drain the cucumbers in a colander and gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Return them to the bowl.

5. 5

   Step 5: Pour the dressing over the cucumbers and toss gently but thoroughly to coat every craggy piece. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and crushed peanuts if using. Serve immediately for maximum crunch, or chill for 15 minutes for an even more refreshing bite.