Ar-Jad, a vibrant and spicy Thai cucumber relish, is the perfect accompaniment to elevate your next meal. This refreshing condiment, often served alongside satay or grilled meats, offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The crunchy cucumbers are beautifully balanced by the fiery chili, the tangy lime juice, and the aromatic herbs, creating a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. It's incredibly easy to make, using readily available ingredients, and requires minimal cooking time, making it ideal for a quick and flavorful addition to any dish.
Forget bland sides! Ar-Jad's zesty kick and bright freshness will transform your culinary experience. This simple recipe unlocks the secret to creating this authentic Thai delicacy, adding a burst of Southeast Asian flair to your table. Ready to learn how to make this incredible relish? Let's dive into the easy step-by-step process.
Tools Needed
- knife
- cutting board
- bowl
- small saucepan
Ingredients
- Red onion or shallot
- Red chilies: 1 cup
- Cucumber
- Sugar: 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- White vinegar: 4 tbsp
- Water: 3 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables and Marinade
- Slice the red onion/shallot, red chilies, and cucumber.
- If you prefer a milder spice, use large red peppers instead of small chilies.
- In a small saucepan, combine 4 tbsp white vinegar, 3 tbsp water, 2 tbsp sugar, and 1 tsp salt.
- Cook over low heat, stirring until the sugar and salt dissolve.
Step 2. Cool and Combine
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely.
- Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the sliced vegetables.
Step 3. Serve
- Serve as a side dish with your favorite Thai dishes like pork satay, spring rolls, fish cakes, or shrimp cakes.
Read more: Authentic Thai Bean Sprout Salad (Kerabu Tauge) Recipe
Tips
- For a less spicy relish, use larger red peppers.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I make this relish ahead of time?
Yes! Ar-Jad actually tastes even better after the flavors have melded in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight. Store it in an airtight container.
2. What kind of chilies should I use?
Thai chilies are traditional, but you can adjust the heat level by using serranos, jalapeños, or even milder chilies. Start with less and add more to taste.
3. What can I serve Ar-Jad with besides satay?
It's delicious with grilled fish, chicken, pork, spring rolls, or even as a topping for noodles or rice.
So there you have it – your very own batch of vibrant, spicy Ar-Jad! This simple recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen, adding a burst of flavour to any meal. Enjoy the refreshing crunch and zesty kick of this authentic Thai relish!