Chef Kunal Kapur’s stir-fried cucumber recipe is the refreshing summer lunch you need; here’s how to make it

When temperatures soar and heavy meals feel like a burden, celebrity chef Kunal Kapur has a simple solution. Sharing a quick and refreshing recipe on Instagram, the chef revealed how he makes stir-fried cucumber for lunch on extremely hot days.

Calling it “crisp, light and packed with flavour,” Kunal Kapoor said the dish is exactly the kind of meal that can make the summer heat a little more bearable. The recipe combines crunchy cucumber with a tangy, spicy sauce and aromatic ingredients like ginger, garlic and sesame, creating a dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.

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Why stir-fried cucumber is perfect for summer

Cucumber is known for its high water content, making it a popular ingredient during hot weather. While it is usually eaten raw in salads, stir-frying gives it a completely different texture while helping it absorb flavours from sauces and seasonings.


The result is a dish that remains crunchy and refreshing while delivering a balance of sweet, spicy and savoury flavours.

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Ingredients you will need

• 4 large cucumbers
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tsp chilli flakes
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp oil
• 2 tsp chopped ginger
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 chopped green chilli (optional)
• 5 tbsp chopped red bell pepper
• A handful of chopped spring onions
• Sesame seeds for garnish

How to make Chef Kunal Kapur’s stir-fried cucumber

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber

Wash and cut the cucumbers into thick pieces or batons. Sprinkle salt over them and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps remove excess moisture and keeps the cucumber crisp during cooking.

Step 2: Make the sauce

In a bowl, combine light soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, chilli flakes and water. Mix well until the sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Sauté the aromatics

Heat oil in a pan or wok. Add chopped ginger and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. If you enjoy extra heat, add the chopped green chilli at this stage.

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A post shared by Kunal Kapur (@chefkunal)

Step 4: Add vegetables

Toss in the chopped red bell pepper and cook briefly. Add the cucumber pieces and stir-fry on high heat for a couple of minutes so they remain crunchy.

Step 5: Pour in the sauce

Add the prepared sauce mixture and stir everything together. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are coated evenly and the flavours blend well.

Step 6: Finish and serve

Add chopped spring onions and give the dish a final toss. Garnish with sesame seeds before serving.

What makes this recipe special?

Unlike many summer dishes that require lengthy preparation, this stir-fried cucumber recipe comes together in just a few minutes. The combination of soy sauce, vinegar and chilli flakes adds bold flavour, while cucumber keeps the dish light and refreshing.

Whether served as a quick lunch, a side dish or a light dinner, this recipe offers a simple way to enjoy seasonal produce while staying cool during hot weather.

Quick tips for best results

• Use firm, fresh cucumbers for maximum crunch.
• Cook on high heat to prevent the cucumber from becoming soggy.
• Adjust chilli flakes according to your spice preference.
• Sprinkle extra sesame seeds for added texture and nutty flavour.
• Pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

FAQs

Can cucumber be stir-fried?

Yes. Stir-frying cucumber briefly on high heat helps retain its crunch while allowing it to absorb flavours from sauces and seasonings.

Is stir-fried cucumber healthy?

The dish is relatively light and includes vegetables such as cucumber, bell peppers and spring onions. It can be a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Can I make this recipe without soy sauce?

You can experiment with alternatives, but soy sauce contributes much of the savoury flavour that defines the recipe.

How long does stir-fried cucumber stay fresh?

It tastes best when served immediately after cooking, as the cucumber retains its crisp texture.

What can I serve with stir-fried cucumber?

It pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, grilled vegetables or as a side dish alongside Asian-inspired meals.