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Ajar (Thai Salad)

5.0 · 2 reviewsRecipe card by Outta HereEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 13, 2026
ThaiAsianVegan< 4 Hours
Ajar (Thai Salad)

Total time

190 min

Servings

2

Calories

76

Category

Vegetable

Experience the vibrant crunch of Ajar, a traditional Thai cucumber salad that perfectly balances sweet, sour, and refreshing flavors. This quick, vegan-friendly side dish is the ultimate palate cleanser to pair with spicy curries, grilled satay, or noodle dishes. With a crisp texture and a tangy vinegar dressing, this authentic Thai recipe brings the essence of street-food culture to your home kitchen.

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings

  • 3 rice vinegar
  • 1 sugar
  • 1/2 salt
  • 1/8 ground black pepper
  • 1 cucumber
  • 1/2 red onion
  • 2 fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1 red chili pepper

Method

  1. In a medium bowl, stir vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper until sugar and salt are dissolved.

  2. Quarter cucumber lengthwise. Remove seeds. Cut quarters crossswise into 1/8" thick slices.

  3. Add cucumber, onion, cilantro and chili pepper to vinegar dressing; toss until combined.

  4. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.

  5. Serve on bed of greens.

Cook's notes

  • Slice the cucumbers thin for maximum absorption of the dressing, but use a mandoline to ensure uniform pieces.
  • Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Use high-quality rice vinegar rather than distilled white vinegar for a more authentic, mellow acidity.
  • Toast your peanuts or sesame seeds briefly in a dry pan to unlock their aromatic oils before garnishing.

Easy swaps

  • Replace traditional shallots with thinly sliced red onion if you prefer a sharper bite.
  • Swap bird's eye chili with jalapeño or serrano peppers if you want a milder level of heat.
  • Use agave nectar or maple syrup as a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional cane sugar in the dressing.
  • Add shredded carrots or daikon radish to introduce extra color and crunch to the salad.

Frequently asked

What is Ajar, and where does it come from?

Ajar is a classic Thai condiment or side salad typically made with cucumbers, shallots, and chili, dressed in a sweet and sour vinegar base. It is a staple in Southeast Asian cuisine, often served alongside grilled dishes.

How do I keep the cucumbers from getting soggy?

To keep the salad crisp, salt the sliced cucumbers lightly and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat them dry before adding the dressing. This draws out excess moisture.

Is this Thai cucumber salad vegan?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan. Always check your sugar source to ensure it aligns with your dietary preferences, as the ingredients used here are strictly plant-based.

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