Cucumbers with Shio Kombu
Cucumber Salad with Shio Kombu (Easy Japanese Cucumber Salad)
When I need a quick vegetable side dish that goes with almost any Japanese meal, this Shio Kombu Cucumber is one of my favorites. It takes just a few minutes to prepare, requires only a handful of pantry ingredients, and somehow tastes like it has been marinating for much longer.
Shio kombu is seasoned kelp that brings a deep umami flavor without needing extra salt. Combined with crunchy cucumber, sesame oil, and a splash of vinegar, it creates a refreshing side dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, bento boxes, or summer meals.
If you're new to Japanese cooking, this is one of the easiest recipes to start with.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ready in just 10 minutes
Only 5 simple ingredients
Naturally packed with umami
Perfect for meal prep
Great as a side dish, appetizer, or bento addition
What is Shio Kombu?
Shio kombu is kelp strips that's been simmered, seasoned, and dried. “Shio” means salt, “Kombu” is the kelp seaweed - it’s often translated to Salted Kelp, or Kombu. It adds a concentrated savory umami flavor to vegetables, rice, pasta, and salads with very little effort.
Tips
Add shredded shiso leaves for extra freshness.
Chili flakes or yuzu kosho add a nice spicy twist.
RECIPE
Servings: 3-4
Time: 20 min
Ingredients:
3 persian cucumber
2 tbsp shio kombu
½ tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
sesame seeds
Instructions:
Prepare the cucumber
Cut the cucumber into bite-sized pieces.
If you'd like extra crunch, lightly smash the cucumber before cutting.
Mix together
Add the cucumber, shio kombu, vinegar, and sesame oil to a bowl.
Mix well until the cucumber is evenly coated.
Rest
Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the cucumber absorbs the umami from the shio kombu.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
FAQ
Can I make shio kombu cucumber ahead of time?
Yes. It's even more flavorful after marinating for 30 minutes to an hour.
What is shio kombu made from?
Shio kombu is made from kombu (kelp) that is simmered with soy sauce and seasonings before being dried into flavorful strips.
Can I use English cucumber?
Yes. English, Persian, or Japanese cucumbers all work well.
Is this recipe vegan?
Most shio kombu is vegan, but check the ingredient label since some brands include seafood extracts.
How long does it last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
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