Taiwan Pickles

Taiwan Pickles Recipe - Vegetarian Food from England and Taiwan

Region / culture: England, Taiwan | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 0 minutes | Servings: 2 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Taiwan pickles are a popular and refreshing dish that is commonly served as a side dish or appetizer in Taiwanese cuisine. This simple yet flavorful recipe features crisp cucumber slices marinated in a tangy and savory dressing, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

History

Taiwan pickles have been a staple in Taiwanese cuisine for generations. The recipe is believed to have originated from the Hakka people, an ethnic group in Taiwan known for their unique culinary traditions. The pickling process was originally used as a way to preserve vegetables, but over time it has evolved into a beloved dish enjoyed for its crunchy texture and zesty flavor.

Ingredients

1 english cucumber, sliced in half lengthwise and sliced
salt (to taste)

Dressing

1 tbsp sesame oil
1 tsp chili oil (or to taste)
1 tbsp rice vinegar

Garnish

Chopped dried chilies to taste

How to prepare

Place the sliced cucumbers in a serving bowl and sprinkle with salt according to taste.
In a small bowl, mix the dressing ingredients and pour it over the cucumber slices.
Stir well to coat the cucumbers with the dressing.
Sprinkle dried chilies according to taste.
Stir again and serve the dish cold.

Variations

Add sliced garlic or ginger to the dressing for extra flavor.
Substitute the cucumber with other vegetables such as carrots, radishes, or bell peppers.
Experiment with different types of vinegar or oils to create unique flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slice the cucumber thinly to ensure that it absorbs the flavors of the dressing.

- Adjust the amount of salt and chili flakes to suit your personal taste preferences.

- For a spicier kick, add more dried chilies or even a splash of hot sauce to the dressing.

- Allow the pickles to marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serving Suggestions

Taiwan pickles can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or noodle soups. They also make a tasty topping for sandwiches or wraps.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making delicious Taiwan pickles is to allow the cucumbers to marinate in the dressing for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will ensure that the flavors are well-balanced and the cucumbers are perfectly seasoned.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have rice vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. You can also use soy sauce instead of salt for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Taiwan pickles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as they marinate, making them even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Taiwan pickles in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs or sesame seeds for an elegant presentation. You can also serve them in individual ramekins for a more refined look.

Pairing Recommendations

Taiwan pickles pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, stir-fries, and noodle soups. They also make a tasty addition to bento boxes or picnic spreads.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Taiwan pickles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply allow them to come to room temperature or enjoy them cold straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Taiwan pickles contains approximately 60 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Taiwan pickles contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Taiwan pickles contains approximately 4 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Taiwan pickles contains approximately 1 gram of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Taiwan pickles are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free.

Summary

Taiwan pickles are a low-calorie, flavorful dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. They make a healthy and delicious addition to any meal.

Summary

Taiwan pickles are a simple and delicious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a refreshing side dish that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these pickles on their own or as a tasty accompaniment to your favorite Taiwanese dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Taiwan Pickles. It was many years ago, during a trip to Taiwan with my husband. We were exploring the bustling markets in Taipei, filled with the sights and sounds of the city, when we stumbled upon a small street vendor selling an array of pickled vegetables. The smell was intoxicating, a mix of vinegar, garlic, and spices that made my mouth water.

As we approached the vendor, a friendly elderly woman greeted us with a warm smile. She had a weathered face and hands that showed a lifetime of hard work, but her eyes sparkled with kindness. She motioned for us to try a sample of her pickles, and we eagerly obliged. The first bite was a burst of flavor – tangy, savory, and slightly spicy. My taste buds danced with delight, and I knew I had to learn how to make these pickles myself.

I struck up a conversation with the vendor, who introduced herself as Mrs. Lin. She explained that the pickles were a traditional Taiwanese recipe passed down through generations in her family. Made with a mix of cucumbers, carrots, and radishes, the pickles were fermented in a brine of vinegar, garlic, ginger, and chili peppers. Mrs. Lin graciously agreed to teach me her recipe, inviting me to her home the next day to watch and learn.

The following morning, my husband and I made our way to Mrs. Lin's modest home on the outskirts of Taipei. She welcomed us with a pot of steaming tea and began to gather the ingredients for the pickles. As she chopped and sliced the vegetables with practiced precision, she shared stories of her childhood in Taiwan and the importance of preserving traditional recipes.

I watched intently as Mrs. Lin demonstrated each step of the process – mixing the vegetables with salt to draw out moisture, preparing the brine with vinegar and spices, and finally, packing the pickles into jars to ferment. The aroma of garlic and ginger filled the air, and I felt a sense of excitement as I envisioned making these pickles in my own kitchen.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, the pickles were ready to be tasted. Mrs. Lin handed me a jar, and I eagerly opened it to reveal the colorful assortment of vegetables inside. The pickles were crisp, tangy, and full of flavor – a perfect balance of sweet and sour. I savored each bite, grateful for the opportunity to learn this time-honored recipe from such a talented cook.

As we bid farewell to Mrs. Lin, she gave me a handwritten copy of the recipe for Taiwan Pickles, along with a jar of pickles to take home. I promised to cherish her gift and continue making the pickles for my family and friends. In the years that followed, I perfected the recipe, tweaking the ingredients and spices to suit my own taste.

Today, whenever I make Taiwan Pickles, I am transported back to that sunny afternoon in Taipei, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bustling market. I am grateful for the kindness and generosity of Mrs. Lin, who shared her treasured recipe with me and inspired me to carry on the tradition of homemade pickles.

As I prepare a fresh batch of pickles in my kitchen, I feel a sense of pride and connection to the vibrant culture of Taiwan. Each jar is a testament to the enduring power of food to bring people together, bridging generations and continents with a shared love of delicious flavors and cherished recipes. And as I take a bite of the tangy, spicy pickles, I am reminded once again of the incredible journey that led me to this moment – a journey filled with friendship, learning, and the simple joy of good food.