Step 1

Cut small cucumbers in half, lengthwise. For regular cucumbers, slice them in half and then into long, finger-like pieces. Peel the shallots and slice them thinly.

Step 2

Put the sliced cucumbers and shallots in a strainer. Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of sea salt over them. Let them sit for 45 minutes to draw out moisture. After that, rinse them well with cold water.

Step 3

In a cooking pot, mix together mustard seeds, turmeric, star anise, sugar, and vinegar. Turn on the stove to medium heat.

Step 4

Bring the mixture in the pot to a boil. Keep stirring until all the sugar has dissolved into the liquid.

Step 5

Take a clean jar and pack the rinsed cucumbers and shallots tightly into it. Pour the hot liquid mixture over them, making sure they’re fully covered. Seal the jar tightly and let it sit for at least 24 hours before you eat it.