Growing up, cucumbers were always a staple in my household, but we mostly enjoyed them fresh and raw, adding a refreshing crunch to salads and sandwiches. It wasn’t until a family trip to Korea that I discovered the charming world of stir-fried cucumbers, or Oi Bokkeum (오이볶음).
The idea of cooking cucumbers was foreign and intriguing, and I was eager to try this unique dish that Korean homes cherish.
What is Stir-Fried Cucumbers (Oi bokkeum)?
Oi bokkeum transforms the humble cucumber into a warm, savory delight, revealing its natural sweetness through the magic of stir-frying. This quick and simple recipe is a testament to the versatility of cucumbers, making it a perfect addition to your Korean side dish rotation to Easy Korean Beef Bulgogi or Oven Baked Korean Pork Belly. Whether served alongside a hearty meal or as a light snack (Spicy Radish Salad (Musaengchae)) , stir-fried cucumbers never fail to impress with their unexpected depth of flavor.
Stir-frying cucumbers may sound unconventional, but it’s a revelation for your taste buds!
Hyun Kim, a home cook who loves introducing friends to Korean cuisine
Are Stir-fried Cucumbers a Healthy Choice
- Low in Calories: Cucumbers are primarily composed of water, making them low in calories yet filling. This dish is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy a light yet satisfying meal.
- Hydration Boost: Cucumbers are hydrating, making this dish perfect for replenishing fluids, especially during warm weather.
- Nutrient-Rich: Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins K and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They contribute to bone health, support immune function, and aid in digestion.
- Antioxidant Properties: Cucumbers contain antioxidants, which help combat free radicals in your body, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Chef’s Notes – Stir-Fried Cucumbers
- Selecting the Best Cucumbers: Choose cucumbers that are thin-skinned and crunchy, such as Korean cucumbers, Persian, or English cucumbers. These varieties hold up well to the stir-frying process, maintaining their texture and flavor.
- Prepping for Crunch: Lightly salting the cucumbers before cooking is key. This step draws out excess water, ensuring that the cucumbers remain crunchy even after being stir-fried. After salting, tightly squeeze out the water content from the cucumber slices. This might seem rough, but don’t worry—they’ll stay crisp during cooking.
- Quick Stir-fry Technique: Stir-fry the cucumbers quickly and over high heat. This not only brings out the cucumbers’ sweetness but also helps retain their vibrant green color and crunchiness. Avoid overcooking, as this can result in a mushy texture.
- Adding Extra Flavor: While Oi Bokkeum is delicious as a vegan side dish, you can enhance it by adding proteins like ground beef, pork, or chicken. Cook the meat separately until fully done and then combine with the cucumbers for a heartier version.
Quick Stir-Fried Cucumbers
4
servings10
minutes5
minutes60
kcal10
minutes25
minutesDive into the delightful world of Korean cuisine with this Quick Stir-Fried Cucumbers recipe! Perfect for a speedy side dish, this recipe brings out the natural sweetness of cucumbers through a quick stir-fry. It’s a fantastic addition to your meal repertoire, offering a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor. Whether you’re new to Korean cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients
1 pound cucumbers choose Kirby or Persian varieties or one large English cucumber
1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt
1 tablespoon vegetable oil for stir-frying
1 teaspoon garlic freshly minced
1 small scallions finely chopped
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds crushed
- Alternative Ingredients
Cucumbers: Zucchini or summer squash can be used as substitutes.
Salt: Use kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt.
Vegetable oil: Olive oil or avocado oil can be used.
Garlic: Garlic powder can be used in place of fresh garlic.
Green onion: Chives or shallots can be used.
Sesame oil: Peanut oil or walnut oil can be used.
Sesame seeds: Poppy seeds or flaxseeds can be used.
Directions
- Preparing Cucumbers – Slice the cucumbers lengthwise and then cut them into thin diagonal slices. If using thin cucumbers, simply slice into rounds.
- Salting Cucumbers – Sprinkle the cucumber slices with sea salt and let them sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess water.
- Removing Water – Firmly squeeze the salted cucumber slices to remove as much water as possible. This step ensures they stay crunchy during stir-frying.
- Heating Pan – Heat a nonstick pan over high heat and add the vegetable oil.
Stir-Frying Garlic – Quickly add the minced garlic to the hot oil and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Adding Cucumbers – Add the cucumber slices to the pan and stir-fry for about 1 minute until they are slightly cooked but still crisp. - Final Touches – Turn off the heat and toss the cucumbers with chopped green onions, sesame oil, and crushed sesame seeds.
Equipment
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Nonstick Pan
- mixing bowls
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 60kcal
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Potassium: 180mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 4IU
- Vitamin C: 6mg
- Calcium: 2mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ – Stir-Fried Cucumbers
Are cucumbers good in stir fry?
Yes, cucumbers are excellent in stir fry dishes. Stir-frying cucumbers brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavor, while maintaining a pleasant crunch. Choose thin-skinned varieties like Persian or English cucumbers, which hold up well to the cooking process without becoming too mushy.
Are cucumbers good cooked?
Absolutely, cooked cucumbers offer a unique texture and flavor different from their raw state. Cooking methods like stir-frying can enhance the cucumbers’ natural sweetness and make them a versatile ingredient in various dishes. They blend well with a range of flavors, from savory to spicy.
What is the secret of stir-frying vegetables?
The secret to perfect stir-fried vegetables lies in high heat and quick cooking. This method helps retain the vegetables’ natural flavors, colors, and nutrients. Other tips include:
* Prep Ahead – Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go.
* High Heat – Use high heat to cook quickly and avoid steaming.
* Don’t Overfill the Pan – Stir-fry in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
* Consistent Size – Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
What can you put on cucumbers to make them taste good?
Cucumbers are versatile and can be paired with various seasonings and dressings to enhance their flavor. Some ideas include:
* Vinegar and Salt: For a quick pickle-like snack.
* Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil: For an Asian-inspired flavor.
* Lemon Juice and Mint: For a refreshing taste.
* Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick.
* Creamy Dressings: Like tzatziki or dill yogurt sauce.
Can I use cucumbers in hot dishes other than stir-fries?
Yes, cucumbers can be used in a variety of hot dishes. They can be added to soups, stews, and even baked dishes. They are particularly popular in Asian soups and hot pots.
What’s the best way to retain the crunchiness of cucumbers when cooking?
To maintain the crunchiness of cucumbers when cooking, use high heat for a short amount of time and avoid overcooking. Salting the cucumbers beforehand to remove excess water also helps in preserving their texture.
Are there any specific varieties of cucumbers that are better for cooking?
Thin-skinned varieties such as Persian, English, or Korean cucumbers are ideal for cooking. They hold up better to heat compared to thicker-skinned varieties and have fewer seeds, which can become mushy.
How can I incorporate cooked cucumbers into my diet more frequently?
Cooked cucumbers can easily be included in various dishes. Add them to stir-fries, soups, stews, or even casseroles. They can also be grilled or roasted for a different texture and flavor. Experiment with different cooking methods to see what you like best.
Are there any health benefits to eating cooked cucumbers?
Yes, cooked cucumbers retain many of their health benefits. They are hydrating and low in calories, making them great for weight management. Cooked cucumbers are also rich in vitamins K and C, as well as antioxidants, which support bone health, the immune system, and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Other Korean Side Dishes you might like
Spicy Korean Radish Salad
Cooks in 40 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the vibrant flavors of Korea with this Spicy Korean Radish Salad! Perfect as a quick kimchi substitute or a delightful addition to bibimbap, this dish is a must-try. Fresh, crunchy radish combined with spicy gochugaru and aromatic garlic will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will bring a burst of Korean cuisine to your table.
Korean Spinach Banchan
Cooks in 15 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the world of Korean cuisine with this delightful spinach banchan! This simple yet flavorful side dish is a staple in Korean meals, perfect for adding a nutritious and tasty touch to your table. Blanched spinach is seasoned with a mix of garlic, sesame oil, and soy sauce, or spiced up with gochujang for a kick. It’s quick, easy, and incredibly versatile. Try it today and bring a taste of Korea to your home!
Korean Stir-Fried Zucchini
Cooks in 15 minutesDifficulty: EasyDive into the flavors of Korea with this simple, yet delicious Stir-Fried Zucchini! Perfect for summer, this dish pairs wonderfully with any Korean meal, especially meat dishes like bulgogi or galbi. It’s also a fantastic addition to bibimbap. Whether you’re using Korean zucchinis or any variety you have on hand, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Spicy and Mild Soybean Sprout Salad
Cooks in 20 minutesDifficulty: MediumDive into the delightful crunch of this Spicy and Mild Soybean Sprout Salad! Perfect as a side dish, this Korean classic brings a nutty flavor with a choice of mild or spicy seasoning. Whether you’re looking to add a kick to your meal or keep it simple, this versatile dish is a must-try. Follow these easy steps to create a healthy, delicious addition to your table.
