Want a refreshing and crunchy Asian cucumber salad like Din Tai Fung’s? Our easy copycat version brings the same great taste and crispness. It’s perfect for any event and takes just minutes to make with simple ingredients. It’s great for busy nights or special events.
This Din Tai Fung copycat cucumber salad goes well with rice, noodles, dumplings, or on its own. Thinly sliced cucumbers soak in a sweet, spicy, and savory soy sauce. This mix of flavors is irresistible, making you want more. If you like the original or want quick, tasty side dishes, this recipe will be a hit.
Key Takeaways
- Easy copycat recipe for the famous Din Tai Fung cucumber salad
- Quick preparation with minimal ingredients and equipment
- Refreshing, crunchy, and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal
- Versatile pairing options: rice, noodles, dumplings, or as a snack
- Marinated cucumbers in a sweet, spicy, and savory soy-based sauce
Introduction: The Perfect Copycat Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
If you love Din Tai Fung, you know their cucumber salad is a hit. It’s simple yet flavorful, with a satisfying crunch. Now, you can make this iconic salad at home with our easy recipe.
About Din Tai Fung’s Famous Cucumber Salad
Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad is a must-try. It’s crisp, fresh cucumbers in a tangy dressing. The dressing includes garlic, sesame oil, and a bit of chili oil for spice.
Why This Recipe Is a Great Side Dish for Special Occasions
This salad is not just tasty but also versatile. It’s perfect with many dishes, from Asian meals to summer barbecues. It’s ideal for dinner parties or any special event, impressing everyone with its authentic taste and look.
We’ll show you the ingredients and steps to make this salad at home. Get ready to enjoy the same flavors and textures that diners love.
Ingredients for Crunchy Asian Cucumber Salad
To make a copycat Din Tai Fung cucumber salad, you need a few key ingredients. These will make the flavors and textures of the dish stand out. Let’s look at the cucumbers, fresh garlic, sesame oil, and other dressing ingredients you’ll need.
Types of Cucumbers: Persian, English, and Baby Cucumbers
For your Asian cucumber salad, choose Persian, English, or baby cucumbers. These types are sweet, have thin skin, and less water than regular cucumbers. They make the salad crunchy and flavorful without getting soggy.
Persian cucumbers are great for this recipe because they’re small and crisp. English cucumbers, or seedless cucumbers, have a mild taste and few seeds. Baby cucumbers add a delightful crunch to your salad.
Fresh Garlic, Sesame Oil, and Other Dressing Ingredients
The dressing is key to this salad, and it’s easy to make with common pantry items. Fresh garlic is a must for its strong, aromatic flavor that goes well with cucumbers. Make sure to mince the garlic finely so it spreads evenly in the dressing.
Sesame oil adds a nutty and fragrant taste. Use it sparingly to keep the flavors balanced. Other important dressing ingredients include:
- Light soy sauce (reduced sodium for lower salt content)
- Sugar
- Chili oil (homemade or store-bought)
- Kosher salt
Vinegars: Rice Vinegar, White Vinegar, Red Wine Vinegar
Vinegar balances the dressing’s flavors and adds a tangy kick. Rice vinegar is traditional, with a mild sweetness and acidity that suits the salad well. If you don’t have rice vinegar, red wine vinegar or distilled white vinegar can be used instead.
| Vinegar | Flavor Profile | Substitution Ratio |
|---|---|---|
| Rice Vinegar | Mild, slightly sweet, and less acidic | 1:1 |
| White Vinegar | Sharp, strong, and more acidic | 1:1 (dilute with water if needed) |
| Red Wine Vinegar | Robust, fruity, and moderately acidic | 1:1 |
Salt and Its Role in Removing Excess Water and Moisture
Salt does more than season the salad; it helps remove excess water from the cucumbers. By salting the cucumbers, you draw out the liquid. This step is key for a crunchy texture and for the dressing to stick well.
Let the cucumbers sit for about 30 minutes after salting. Rinse them under cold water to remove the salt and moisture. Dry them with paper towels or a clean towel before dressing them.
With the right cucumbers, garlic, sesame oil, vinegars, and salt, you can make a crunchy Asian cucumber salad that’s just like Din Tai Fung’s.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Din Tai Fung’s Cucumber Salad
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and crunchy cucumber salad. It’s just like the famous dish from Din Tai Fung. With a few ingredients and patience, you’ll have a refreshing side dish for any occasion.
Prepping the Cucumbers: Removing Ends and Thick Slices
Start by washing your cucumbers well and removing the ends. Then, slice the cucumbers into thick slices, about 1/2 inch thick. This makes sure your salad has a great crunch.
Salting the Cucumbers to Reduce Excess Water
Put the sliced cucumbers in a big bowl and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step removes excess water, so your salad won’t be too watery.
Mixing the Delicious Dressing with Fresh Minced Garlic
While the cucumbers sit, get ready the dressing. In a bowl, mix these ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 clove of minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon chili oil (optional)
Whisk the ingredients until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is mixed well. The fresh minced garlic adds a great flavor to the dressing.
Combining Cucumbers and Dressing in a Large Bowl
After 30 minutes, rinse the cucumbers under cold water to get rid of excess salt. Dry them with a clean towel or paper towels. Put the cucumbers in a big bowl and add the dressing. Toss them gently to coat them evenly with the dressing.
Chilling the Salad for Maximum Crunch and Flavor
For the best taste, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving. This lets the flavors blend and keeps the salad chilled and crunchy.
Pro Tip: For an even more flavorful salad, prepare it up to 2 hours in advance and chill it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Copycat Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
To make your cucumber salad taste just like Din Tai Fung’s, follow these expert tips. Paying attention to small details will help you create a refreshing and flavorful side dish. It will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
Using Paper Towels to Remove Excess Salt and Moisture
After salting the cucumbers, remove excess salt and moisture to avoid a watery salad. Gently pat the cucumber slices with paper towels to soak up the liquid. This keeps the cucumbers crunchy and ensures a satisfying bite with every forkful.
Selecting Cucumbers with Thinner Skin for Better Texture
Choose cucumbers with thinner skin, like Persian or English cucumbers, for this recipe. These have a delicate texture and fewer seeds, perfect for salads. Their thin skin lets the dressing soak in better, making the cucumbers taste great with garlic, sesame oil, and vinegar.
Adjusting Chili Oil and Soy Sauce for a Personalized Flavor
Customizing the flavors of this cucumber salad is a big plus. If you like it spicy, add more chili oil or fresh chili peppers. For a savory taste, use more light soy sauce. Experiment to find the perfect balance for your taste buds.
The key to a great Din Tai Fung copycat cucumber salad is in the details. By using paper towels to remove excess moisture, selecting cucumbers with thinner skin, and adjusting the chili oil and soy sauce to your liking, you’ll create a dish that rivals the restaurant version.
Storage Tips for Your Cucumber Salad
After making your delicious Din Tai Fung-inspired cucumber salad, it’s key to store it right. This keeps it fresh and crunchy. With the right storage, you can enjoy this refreshing side for days, making it great for meal prep.
Storing in an Air-Tight Container to Keep It Fresh
For a fresh and crisp cucumber salad, put it in an air-tight container in the fridge. This keeps the cucumbers from picking up bad smells and keeps the salad moist. It stops it from drying out or getting soggy.
When you move the salad to the container, take the dressing with it. This lets the flavors mix well while it’s stored. Or, you can keep the dressing in a separate container and mix it with the cucumbers just before eating.
How Long Can You Store It in the Refrigerator?
Your Din Tai Fung-inspired cucumber salad can last 2-3 days in the fridge if stored right. It’s perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy it all week.
If you’re making it early for an event, prepare it 2-3 days before. To keep it looking great, put the cucumbers on a plate an hour before serving. Drizzle with dressing and add chili oil and peppers just before eating.
| Storage Method | Maximum Storage Time |
|---|---|
| Air-tight container in the refrigerator (with dressing) | 2-3 days |
| Air-tight container in the refrigerator (dressing separate) | 2-3 days (combine before serving) |
| Assembled on a serving plate (without dressing) | 1 hour (add dressing just before serving) |
Follow these easy storage tips to keep your homemade Din Tai Fung-inspired cucumber salad fresh and tasty. You’ll enjoy this refreshing side dish for days after making it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When making the perfect Din Tai Fung cucumber salad, you might have questions about ingredients and techniques. We’ll answer some common questions to help you get great results at home.
Can I Use Regular Cucumbers for This Recipe?
Persian or English cucumbers are best for this recipe because of their thin skin and few seeds. But, you can use regular cucumbers if you have them. Just remove the seeds and peel if the skin is thick or bitter. Slicing the cucumbers thinly makes the dish more enjoyable.
What Makes Din Tai Fung’s Cucumber Salad So Special?
Din Tai Fung is famous for its amazing food, and their cucumber salad is a big hit. It’s loved for its light taste and crunchy texture. The secret is in the seasoning, with sesame oil, chili oil, and a special chili pepper garnish.
Our copycat recipe lets you make Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad at home. It uses simple ingredients and techniques for big flavor. If you love the restaurant or want a tasty side dish, this recipe will impress you.
Serving Ideas for Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad
This Din Tai Fung Cucumber Salad is a versatile side dish. It goes well with many Asian-inspired dishes. Its cool, crunchy texture and refreshing flavors are perfect with noodle dishes and delicious soup dumplings.
Pairing with Noodle Dishes and Delicious Soup Dumplings
Pair this refreshing side dish with classic Asian noodle dishes. Think dan dan noodles, lo mein, or spicy Sichuan noodle soup. The crisp cucumbers offer a delightful contrast to the savory, often spicy flavors.
Don’t forget about Din Tai Fung’s famous xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. These delicate, steamed dumplings are filled with flavorful broth and tender pork. They’re a perfect match with the cool, garlicky cucumber salad.
Serving as a Refreshing Side Dish for a Special Occasion
This salad is great for birthdays, summer barbecues, or family dinners. Its bright flavors and attractive look make it a standout side dish for any special occasion.
Try serving it with grilled meats like teriyaki chicken skewers or soy-marinated beef short ribs. The refreshing cucumber salad balances the richness of the grilled dishes. Your guests will leave feeling satisfied and refreshed.
Conclusion: Simple Ingredients, Maximum Flavor
This copycat Din Tai Fung cucumber salad recipe lets you enjoy the famous dish at home. It uses just a few simple ingredients. You can make a crunchy, refreshing, and tasty side dish that goes well with any Asian meal.
Thinly sliced cucumbers, fresh garlic, sesame oil, and a mix of vinegars make a sweet and tangy taste. Chili oil and soy sauce add more flavor, making it a dish you’ll want to make often.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With minimal preparation time and a short list of ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality side dish ready in no time.
This cucumber salad is great with Din Tai Fung’s soup dumplings or your favorite noodle dishes. It will impress your family and friends. So, when you crave Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad, you can make it at home with simple ingredients and this recipe.
Enjoy cooking and taste the delicious flavors of this copycat Din Tai Fung cucumber salad. It shows that sometimes, the best dishes are made with love, care, and a few simple ingredients.
Recipe Card: Easy Din Tai Fung Copycat Cucumber Salad Recipe
To make this tasty Din Tai Fung cucumber salad, you’ll need a few ingredients. You’ll need 8 Persian cucumbers, cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Also, you’ll need 1½ tablespoons of kosher salt, 3 tablespoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1½ tablespoons of Mirin, 1½ tablespoons of sesame oil, 3 cloves of grated or minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt for the dressing. This recipe is easy to follow and will help you make a refreshing salad that goes well with any Asian meal.
Start by cutting the Persian cucumbers into 1/2-inch thick pieces. Then, toss them with 1½ tablespoons of kosher salt. Let the cucumbers sit for 30 minutes to get rid of excess water. After that, rinse and dry them with paper towels.
In another bowl, mix the rice vinegar, sugar, Mirin, sesame oil, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. This makes a tangy and aromatic dressing.
Put the salted and dried cucumbers in a big bowl. Pour the dressing over them, making sure they’re all coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors blend well.
When you’re ready to serve, add ½ tablespoon of chili oil and ½ tablespoon of sesame oil on top. For extra spice and crunch, you can also add minced Fresno chile pepper. This recipe makes a cucumber salad that tastes just like the one from Din Tai Fung at home.
FAQ
Can I use regular cucumbers for this Din Tai Fung cucumber salad recipe?
Yes, you can use regular cucumbers if you prefer. Just make sure to dry them well with paper towels. This is because they have a different taste and texture than Persian or English cucumbers.
What makes Din Tai Fung’s cucumber salad so special?
Din Tai Fung is famous for its tasty soup dumplings and refreshing cucumber salad. The salad comes with sesame and chili oil and a special fresno chili pepper on top. This makes it light, refreshing, and slightly spicy.
How long can I store this copycat Din Tai Fung cucumber salad in the refrigerator?
You can keep this salad in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just put it in an air-tight container with the dressing. This way, it stays fresh and crunchy.
What are some serving ideas for this crunchy Asian cucumber salad?
This salad goes great with noodle dishes and Din Tai Fung’s soup dumplings. It’s also perfect as a refreshing side for special events, especially in the summer.
Can I adjust the chili oil and soy sauce to personalize the flavor?
Absolutely! You can add more or less chili oil based on what you like. Also, you can use light soy sauce or adjust the amount to make the dish less salty.