Authentic Thai Cucumber Relish
This authentic Thai cucumber relish is a tiny bowl of magic—simple, zesty, and brimming with vibrant flavors. Whether you're serving it with grilled meats, fried favorites, or a bowl of jasmine rice, it’s guaranteed to brighten your plate.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cucumber thinly sliced or diced (Persian or English cucumbers work best; peel if using regular cucumbers)
- 1/4 cup red shallots thinly sliced (can substitute with red onion if needed)
- 1 or 2 Thai hot chilies finely chopped (adjust to taste; use gloves if sensitive)
- 2 tablespoons coriander cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/3 cup distilled white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the vegetables
- Start by slicing the cucumber into thin half-moons or small dice for a more delicate texture. Thinly slice the shallots and finely chop the chilies. Roughly chop the cilantro leaves.
- Tip: To keep cucumbers crisp, chill them in the fridge before cutting.
Make the sweet-sour dressing
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the distilled white vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir until the sugar and salt are fully dissolved.
- Tip: Warming the vinegar slightly can help dissolve the sugar faster, but room temperature is fine too.
Combine all ingredients
- In a serving bowl, mix together the cucumbers, shallots, chilies, and cilantro. Pour the vinegar dressing over the vegetables and toss gently to combine.
- Tip: Let the relish sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.
Adjust and serve
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more sugar for sweetness, vinegar for tang, or an extra chili if you like it spicier.
- Tip: Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
No cilantro? Substitute with fresh mint or Thai basil for a different herbal note.
Low-sugar alternative: Use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Mild version: Remove the seeds from the chilies or use less spicy peppers.
Make ahead: Prepare the dressing in advance and mix in the vegetables just before serving.
Common mistake: Don’t skip dissolving the sugar and salt properly—it ensures a balanced flavor.