Crisp and Refreshing Oiji (Pickled Cucumbers): No-Boil Golden Ratio Recipe
How to Make Oiji Simply Without Water: A No-Boil Golden Ratio Recipe
Perfect for when you lose your appetite on hot summer days! I’ll show you how to make crisp and refreshing oiji simply, without using any water. This golden ratio recipe is so easy, anyone can succeed without boiling.
Main Ingredients
- 7-10 Cucumbers (fresh, not too large, are best)
- 2/3 cup Coarse Salt
- 2/3 cup Granulated Sugar
- 2/3 cup Distilled Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Let’s start the golden ratio recipe for making oiji simply without water. It’s incredibly easy as there’s no boiling involved.
Step 2
Wash the cucumbers intended for pickling thoroughly under running water. It’s important to rub them gently to avoid bruising. After washing, soak the cucumbers in a solution of 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar mixed with 1 liter of water for about 1-3 minutes to sanitize them. Rinse again with clean water and ensure they are completely dry.
Step 3
Once the cucumbers are dry, place them in a clean container. Sprinkle 2/3 cup of coarse salt evenly over all the cucumbers. This step helps the salt penetrate the cucumbers.
Step 4
Next, evenly sprinkle 2/3 cup of granulated sugar over the cucumbers. Sugar adds depth of flavor and helps with preservation.
Step 5
Finally, pour in 2/3 cup of vinegar. Using distilled vinegar or apple cider vinegar will give a clean taste. All the ingredients are now added! Cover the container and let it ferment at room temperature for 2 days. Remember to flip the container upside down every so often when you think of it, to ensure the seasoning is distributed evenly and the oiji becomes even more delicious.
Step 6
After 2 days of room temperature fermentation, transfer the oiji directly to the refrigerator or kimchi refrigerator for storage. You can enjoy it immediately, or let it sit longer for a deeper, more developed flavor.
Step 7
And just like that, your delicious oiji is ready without any boiling! Enjoy this crisp and refreshing pickled cucumber as a fantastic summer side dish.
