Bright, fresh, and bursting with flavors, this Heart-Healthy Acar Timun is a delightful take on the classic Southeast Asian pickled cucumber dish. Featuring crisp cucumber and crunchy carrot bathed in a tangy-sweet mixture of white vinegar, honey, and sesame oil, this recipe is elevated with aromatic garlic, spicy red chili, and a hint of warm ginger. Low in calories and high in nutrients, it's the perfect addition to a heart-conscious diet. Lightly marinated and sprinkled with a nutty sesame seed garnish, this quick and easy side dish (ready in just 20 minutes of active time!) is ideal for complementing grilled proteins, rice dishes, or even as a refreshing standalone snack. Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and Asian-inspired zest, this modernized acar timun is a must-try for anyone who loves flavorful yet healthy cuisine.
Wash the cucumbers and peel them, leaving some stripes of skin if desired for added texture and color.
Slice the cucumbers lengthwise into quarters and then cut into 2-inch sticks.
Peel and cut the carrot into thin matchsticks.
Slice the red chili into thin rings, removing seeds if you prefer less heat.
Finely mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
In a saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, and honey. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Stir in the sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Simmer for another minute to meld flavors.
Remove from heat and add salt and black pepper. Let the pickling liquid cool slightly.
In a bowl, mix the cucumber, carrot, and red chili. Pour the warm pickling liquid over the vegetables and toss to coat evenly.
Cover the bowl and let the acar timun marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.
Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds for an added heart-healthy crunch.
Serve as a refreshing side dish or a light appetizer.
Calories |
424 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 19.7 g | 25% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.9 g | 14% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 8.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1242 mg | 54% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 61.4 g | 22% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.9 g | 21% | |
| Total Sugars | 45.0 g | ||
| Protein | 6.1 g | 12% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 118 mg | 9% | |
| Iron | 2.7 mg | 15% | |
| Potassium | 989 mg | 21% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.