According to Chinese tradition, the Year of the Fire Horse is filled with action, courage and growth. It is a lucky sign for fortune, abundance and opportunities. The horse is a symbol of strength, freedom and perseverance. This is a. year of a fast energetic pace! So hang on as the horse gallops into 2026!
Cucumber-Peanut Salad
It is the Chinese year of the Fire Horse. This favorite and traditional Cucumber-Peanut Salad is frequently served at Chinese New Year Celebrations with its wonderful crunch of fresh cucumbers and roasted peanuts. Cucumber Salads are one of the most popular salads in China, with the salad either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. It’s easy, fresh and a great accompaniment to any main course. Cucumbers are available all year long—this salad can be served in the heat of the summer or with as a fresh winter side, as with Chinese New Year celebrations. While light and refreshing, the salad is packed with flavor. No wonder it’s a favorite! My thanks to my wonderful daughter-in-law for this recipe, and for her many other Chinese recipes and techniques that I have learned from her.
Happy Year of the Horse! You don’t have to be Chinese to enjoy the fabulous and diverse Chinese cuisine! I am lucky to have a Chinese daughter-in-law who has tutored me in the finer aspect of authentic Chinese food. Here are some other great recipes to accompany any New Year’s celebration.
Cucumber-Peanut Salad
Jing Gua
Serves 4 as a side
#Chinese #vegan #cucumbers #peanuts #side
Vegetables
1 1/2 pounds English cucumbers
3-5 tablespoons roasted peanuts, chopped
3-4 green onions, chopped or sliced
Dressing
1 tablespoon neutral oil, such as canola
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons white sesame seeds, toasted’
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 1/2 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt, if peanuts are salted
1 teaspoon sugar/ maple syrup or honey
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Score the cucumbers vertically with the tines of a fork. Then cut cucumbers in half lengthwise and then in slices about 1/4” wide. Place these slices in a colander in a sink and sprinkle kosher salt on top. Let sit for about 10 minutes. This lessens the water in the cucumbers. Gently rinse cucumbers and pat dry.
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Mix cucumbers and peanuts in a bowl. Set aside.
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Heat oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, sesame seeds and red pepper flakes to the oil and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and bring to room temperature. Add soy sauce, vinegar and sugar. Stir to mix.
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Pour over cucumbers and peanuts. Add green onions as a garnish.
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Serve immediately. If not serving right away, refrigerate until ready to serve.
Expandthetable suggestions
Nut free: Omit nuts and use toasted pine nuts (piñoli) instead.
Add other veggies: Add thinly sliced red or green bell peppers, carrots or radishes cut into matchsticks
