Cucumber Pearls

Refreshing cucumber pearls that add crisp, clean flavor to seafood, summer plates, and light cocktails.

Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (180mL) cucumber juice (peeled, deseeded, and blended)
  • ¼ cup (60mL) water
  • 1 tbsp (15mL) lime juice
  • ½ tsp (2g) sodium alginate
  • 1 tsp (4.5g) calcium chloride
  • 2 cups (500mL) ice-cold water (for bath)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Juice
    • Blend peeled, deseeded cucumber and strain through fine mesh for clarity.
  2. Mix Base
    • Combine cucumber juice, water, and lime juice in blender.
  3. Add Alginate
    • Blend on low while slowly adding sodium alginate. Mix thoroughly for 1 minute.
  4. Rest
    • Let sit 30–45 minutes to release trapped air bubbles.
  5. Strain
    • Push through fine sieve into The Spherificator®.
  6. Prepare Bath
    • Dissolve calcium chloride in 500mL ice-cold water.
  7. Form Pearls
    • Drop from 5–6 inches height into bath, cure for 1 minute.
  8. Finish
    • Rinse gently and chill immediately.

Expert Tips

Flavor Enhancements
  • Minted: Add 2 mint leaves while blending.
  • Savory: Mix in ½ tsp dill or parsley.
Color Control
  • Vibrant green: Use unpeeled cucumber for juice.
  • Clarity: Strain twice through fine mesh or cheesecloth.
Troubleshooting
  • If too thin: Reduce water by 25mL.
  • If bitter: Remove cucumber seeds before blending.
Serving Ideas
  • Seafood: Use over oysters or shrimp cocktail.
  • Drinks: Add to gin and tonic or cucumber coolers.
0