stir-fried ham with cucumber

How to Make Stir-Fried Cucumber and Ham: A Simple Guide

Stir-fried cucumber and ham is a quick, delicious, and versatile dish loved for its crisp-tender texture and savory flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, it requires minimal ingredients and effort. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to mastering this classic recipe.

Ingredients:

- 1 large cucumber, peeled and sliced into half-moons

- 100g ham, cut into thin strips or cubes

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon cooking oil

- 1 teaspoon soy sauce

- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional, for balance)

- A pinch of salt and pepper

- Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients: Wash the cucumber and slice it evenly for even cooking. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic.

2. Stir-Fry the Ham: Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ham and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Cucumber: In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic and stir for 10 seconds until fragrant. Add the cucumber slices and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender (avoid overcooking to retain crunch).

4. Combine and Season: Return the ham to the pan. Add soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for another minute.

5. Serve: Transfer to a plate, garnish with sesame seeds if desired, and enjoy hot with steamed rice or as a side dish.

This dish is endlessly customizable—add a dash of chili flakes for heat or bell peppers for extra color. With its fresh, savory taste, it’s sure to become a household favorite!