Steps

1. Prepare the cucumbers. Wash 2 cucumbers and trim off both ends.
   🕒 01:06
2. Cut the cucumbers in half lengthwise.
   🕒 01:30
3. Remove the seeds from the cucumbers. Use a small spoon to carefully scoop out the seeds and set them aside in a separate container. (Key Tip!) Removing the seeds prevents the texture from being compromised after pickling.
   🕒 01:45
4. Cut the cucumbers into sticks. Cut the deseeded cucumbers into two pieces lengthwise, then cut them into long, thin strips. Cut these into 2-3 stick shapes. (Key Tip!) To preserve the texture of the skin, cut along the grain.
   🕒 02:19
5. Prepare the garlic and ginger. Thinly slice 1 clove of garlic and 1 clove of ginger with the skin on. Slice the garlic into rounds.
   🕒 03:24
6. Add the ingredients for the crispy brine to a pot. Combine 1/2 cup water, 3 tbsp sugar, 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1 red chili pepper in a pot.
   🕒 03:44
7. Add the aromatics to the crispy brine. Add the sliced garlic and ginger to the pot from Step 6.
   🕒 04:26
8. Heat the crispy brine. Mix the ingredients in the pot and bring to a boil, heating thoroughly. (Key Tip!) Continue heating after boiling to ensure the flavors of the seasonings are well-infused and to enhance sterilization.
   🕒 04:31
9. Arrange the cucumbers in a container. Place the cut cucumbers in a heatproof container.
   🕒 04:41
10. Pour the hot crispy brine over the cucumbers. Pour the piping hot crispy brine from Step 8 over the arranged cucumbers. (Key Tip!) Pouring the hot brine helps maintain the cucumbers' crispiness while allowing the flavors to penetrate efficiently.
    🕒 05:08
11. Let cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator. Allow to cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld. (Key Tip!) Letting it sit overnight will further infuse the flavors into the cucumbers, making them even more delicious.
    🕒 05:36
12. Squeeze the water out of the cucumber seeds. Lightly squeeze the water out of the reserved cucumber seeds.
    🕒 06:22
13. Season the cucumber seeds. Add soy sauce (to taste) and bonito flakes (to taste) to the squeezed cucumber seeds and mix. (Key Tip!) The seasoned cucumber seeds with bonito flakes are a perfect refreshing palate cleanser.
    🕒 06:48
14. Plate the dish. Arrange the chilled crispy cucumbers and the seasoned cucumber seeds with bonito flakes on a plate.
    🕒 07:25