Fried Cucumbers

Fried Cucumbers
English cucumber                                       1 ea.
Red bird chili                                             1 ea.
Whole garlic clove                                     2 ea.
Frying oil (vegetable, peanut, or lard)         2-3 oz
Rice vinegar                                              2 Tbsp
Soy sauce                                                 2 ½ Tbsp
Sesame oil                                                2 tsp

1 Cut the cucumber in half length-wise. Remove the seeds using a melon baller, and slice into 1/4” thick half-moons.

2 Remove the stem and seeds from the chili and mince. Peel the garlic and mince.

3 Heat a wok until it smokes, and then add the oil and cucumbers.

4 Toss cucumbers as needed until lightly browned in spots. Add the Chilies and garlic and fry for 1 more minute.

5 Add the vinegar and soy sauce and toss together. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until aromatic.

6 Remove the pan from the heat, and then add the sesame oil. Toss thoroughly and serve with rice as a side.