Cucumber Kimchi is incredibly refreshing, and it comes together so quickly you won’t even believe it. The sensation of the cool cucumbers against the hot white rice is a real delight. Actually, rice was once a point of contention between my friend and myself. I wanted to try the kimchi with brown rice, but she insisted that it wouldn’t work. I served it with brown rice anyway a few times before sadly admitting that she was right. Brown rice is too flavorful, non-absorbent and un-sticky. You need the clean flavor and stickier nature of white rice to get the full experience. 

My husband and I like to boil up a bag of edamame to make this a full meal. I’m sure I’ve unintentionally changed the recipe over the years, but it remains delicious and always makes me think of my longtime friend.

Cucumber Kimchi – Serves 2
Ingredients:

• 1 large cucumber
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 scallions, sliced
• red pepper flakes, pinch
• soy sauce, lots
• white rice for serving

1. With a peeler peel alternate lines in the cucumber like this. Slice the cucumber into thin slices.
2. Place the cucumbers in a shallow bowl and add the garlic, scallions and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine. 
3. Pour enough soy sauce over the cucumbers until they’re well doused. Not totally submerged, but well covered.
4. Refrigerate until ready to eat – at least 20 minutes. I like to make the kimchi right after I put my rice on, and let it marinate while the rice cooks.
5. Serve cold with cooked hot white rice.