Cucumber Shooters  (yields 12 shooters) 8 cucumbers (the conventional field variety) Cut 2-1/2 inches off both ends of the cucumbers. Reserve. Peel middle sections, cut in half lengthwise and use a spoon to scrape out seeds. Discard seeds. To make the gazpacho: In a food processor, add the middle sections of the cucumbers along with the mint, shallot, jalapeño, lime juice and garlic. Purée. Strain puréed mixture through a fine strainer into a medium bowl. Use a rubber spatula to press out as much juice as possible from the mash. Discard solids. Whisk in oil and vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate a minimum of 1 hour. Take the 12 most aesthetically pleasing cucumber ends and slice off the bottom 1/4 inch so they stand solidly on their ends. Use a zester, paring knife or vegetable peeler to create designs in the peel. Use a melon baller or a tiny spoon to scoop out the seeds and some of the surrounding cucumber, creating a cucumber shot glass. Serve the chilled cucumber gazpacho in the sculpted cups. Cross References: Original Source: |
