Cucumber Craze: TikTok Trend Leads to Shortage of Cucumbers in Iceland (and a Simple Cucumber Salad Recipe to Try at Home)

A delicious cucumber recipe on TikTok is leading to a shortage in Iceland. Image by Matthias Zomer.

Curious about the influence of social media on the markets? In Iceland, one TikTok trend has created such a stir that actual supermarkets are running out of cucumbers! A viral cucumber salad recipe shared by influencer Logan Moffitt has captivated the nation, sparking an unexpected surge in demand for this once-abundant vegetable. The viral recipe, which features sliced cucumbers mixed with sesame oil, garlic, rice vinegar, sugar, MSG, and chili oil, has captivated the taste buds of many Icelanders. As a result, Icelandic suppliers are now scrambling to keep up with the overwhelming need, with this TikTok trend leading to an unusual shortage of cucumbers across the country.

Moffitt, known as the "cucumber guy," has a following of over 5.5 million. His creative cucumber recipes, often paired with ingredients like cream cheese, avocado, and smoked salmon, are incredibly popular and have clearly struck a chord with Icelandic food lovers.

The trend's popularity has even caught the attention of the Horticulturists’ Sales Company (SFG), Iceland’s farmers association, which has reported that farmers are currently unable to meet the skyrocketing demand for cucumbers.  Sales of cucumbers and other ingredients in the salad recipe have more than doubled, according to one supermarket chain.

Why not join in on the trend and try your hand at a delicious cucumber salad? Here’s a simple recipe inspired by the viral sensation that’s causing an international buzz.

Easy Cucumber Salad Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 tablespoon chili crunch (or chili oil)

• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)

• 1 teaspoon sugar

  
  

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cucumbers: Start by thinly slicing or grating the cucumbers. If you prefer a slightly less watery salad, sprinkle the cucumbers with a pinch of salt and let them sit in a colander for about 10 minutes to release excess water. Afterward, pat them dry with a paper towel.

2. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers, red onion, and minced garlic.

3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili crunch, sesame oil (if using), and sugar until the sugar is fully dissolved.

4. Combine and Toss: Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture and toss to ensure everything is well-coated. Sprinkle the sesame seeds on top for added texture and flavor.

5. Serve: Serve the salad immediately for a crisp, refreshing dish, or let it marinate in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

   
   

The addition of sugar adds a subtle sweetness that balances out the tanginess of the vinegar and the heat from the chili crunch, enhancing the overall flavor of the salad. Enjoy this simple yet satisfying dish as a side or a light, refreshing snack!