Ajad (Authentic Thai Cucumber Salad)

This Thai cucumber salad (ajad) with chiles and shallots is a popular accompaniment to many deep-fried and barbecued appetizers and some curries.

• Preparation Time: 10 mins
• Cooking Time: 5 mins
• Total Time: 15 mins
• Calories: 94 Calories

Ingredients

• 3 shallots, thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons white sugar, or more to taste
• 6 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
• 1.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 cup water
• 0.5 cup white vinegar
• 2 Thai bird's eye chiles, halved lengthwise

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Combine vinegar, water, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil and cook until sugar and salt are dissolved, 3 to 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning so pickling liquid is pleasantly sweet, sour, and lightly salty.

Step 2

Combine cucumbers, shallots, and chiles in a large bowl. Cover with pickling liquid. Refrigerate for a few hours to let flavors combine.