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Easy Restaurant Style Spicy Kani Salad

A mound of creamy kani salad mixed with shredded cucumber, topped with sesame seeds and chili threads.
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Make this creamy, crunchy, and refreshing Kani Salad at home. This imitation crab salad mimics the popular sushi side dish and comes together quickly.

Ingredients

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  • 8 ounces imitation crab meat (kani), shredded
  • 1/2 English cucumber, thinly julienned
  • 1/4 cup Japanese mayonnaise (Kewpie preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Sriracha (adjust for spice level)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
  • Optional: 1/4 cup shredded carrot for color

Instructions

  1. Prepare the imitation crab by shredding it finely. If using pre-shredded, ensure the pieces are separated.
  2. Prepare the cucumber by slicing it very thinly or julienning it into matchsticks. If you prefer a less watery salad, lightly salt the cucumber and let it sit for 5 minutes, then gently squeeze out excess moisture before proceeding.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the Japanese mayonnaise, Sriracha, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. This creates your spicy mayo dressing.
  4. Add the shredded imitation crab and the julienned cucumber to the bowl with the dressing. If using, add the shredded carrot now.
  5. Gently fold all ingredients together until the crab and vegetables are evenly coated with the spicy mayo dressing. Do not overmix.
  6. Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed (add more Sriracha for heat or a pinch more salt).
  7. Cover the bowl and chill the Kani Salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. Before serving, sprinkle the top with toasted sesame seeds. Serve cold as a sushi side dish or light lunch.

Notes

  • For the best texture, use Kewpie mayonnaise; its richer flavor improves the creamy quality of the dressing.
  • You can make this salad ahead of time, but add the sesame seeds just before serving for maximum crunch.
  • If you want a less watery salad, pat the shredded crab dry with a paper towel before mixing.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://blissbatter.com/easy-kani-salad-recipe-spicy-creamy/