Quick and Easy Cucumber Chow Recipe
Cucumber chow is one of those simple dishes that instantly wakes up your taste buds. It’s fresh, spicy, tangy, and full of bold island flavor. You don’t need a long list of ingredients or a complicated process. Just crisp cucumbers, lime juice, garlic, pepper, and herbs. It comes together fast, and every bite has that perfect balance of cool and heat. Whether you serve it as a snack, a side, or something to cool off on a hot day, it always hits the spot.
In Trinidad and across the Caribbean, chow is more than just a recipe—it’s a way to enjoy fresh ingredients with a punch of flavor. It’s often sold by street vendors, but it’s just as easy to make at home. You can adjust the spice, the tartness, and even the texture depending on how you slice your cucumbers. That’s what makes it special. It’s flexible, bold, and always refreshing. Once you make it yourself, it’ll become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
Quick and Easy Cucumber Chow Recipe
2-3
servings10
minutes90
kcalCucumber chow is a bold and refreshing Caribbean snack that brings together crisp cucumbers, fresh lime juice, garlic, and hot pepper for a burst of vibrant flavor. It’s quick to prepare, light on calories, and full of that signature mix of heat, tang, and herbs. Whether you’re serving it as a side, a snack, or a cool appetizer, this cucumber chow adds a zesty touch to any table and always leaves you wanting more.
Ingredients
2 large cucumbers, peeled and sliced
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 to 2 hot peppers (like scotch bonnet or habanero), thinly sliced
Juice of 2 limes
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro or chadon beni
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: a pinch of sugar to balance the heat
Directions
- Start by peeling the cucumbers and slicing them into rounds or spears, depending on how you like them. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the finely chopped garlic and sliced hot peppers to the bowl. Be careful with the amount of pepper if you’re sensitive to heat. You can always adjust to your taste.
- Squeeze in the fresh lime juice and stir everything gently. The lime brings brightness and helps balance the spice.
- Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. If you’re using sugar, add just a small pinch to soften the sharpness of the lime and heat.
- Chop the cilantro or chadon beni finely and stir it into the mix. This gives the chow its signature fresh kick.
- Let the cucumber chow sit for about 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors can blend. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
- It’s best enjoyed chilled and fresh, but it can also be kept in the fridge for a few hours if you want to let it soak up even more flavor.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Let the chow sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This short resting time helps the cucumbers absorb the lime, garlic, and pepper, giving you a deeper, more balanced taste.
- Be cautious with the amount of hot pepper. Start small and taste before adding more. The heat builds over time, especially as the chow sits.
Conclusion
Cucumber chow is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings the perfect balance of spice and freshness. It’s an easy-to-make Caribbean classic that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. With its bold flavors and refreshing crunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Once you try it, you’ll appreciate how quickly it comes together and how satisfying each bite can be. So, grab your ingredients and give this cucumber chow a try—it’s a delicious, vibrant addition to any meal!
