Nostalgic Delight: Tender Stir-Fried Zucchini Recipe
Nostalgic Delight: Tender Stir-Fried Zucchini Recipe
Stir-Fried Zucchini
A taste of childhood, just like Mom used to make! This recipe brings back warm, comforting memories with its tender and flavorful stir-fried zucchini. It’s a simple yet delicious side dish perfect for any meal!
Main Ingredients- 4 medium zucchinis
- 1 stalk green onion (white part mainly)
Seasoning Ingredients- 2 Tbsp salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
- 5 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (generous)
- 4 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 cups water (approx. 400ml)
- 4 Tbsp soup soy sauce (guk-ganjang)
- Sesame seeds, to taste
- 2 Tbsp salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
- 3 Tbsp cooking oil
- 5 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic (generous)
- 4 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 2 cups water (approx. 400ml)
- 4 Tbsp soup soy sauce (guk-ganjang)
- Sesame seeds, to taste
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the zucchinis thoroughly under running water. Cut them in half lengthwise, then slice them into 0.5cm thick half-moon shapes. Ensure they aren’t too thick, or they won’t cook evenly. Heat a pan over medium heat, then add 3 Tbsp of cooking oil and 5 Tbsp of perilla oil. Let the oils warm up.
Step 2
Once the oil is hot, add the sliced zucchinis and 1 Tbsp of minced garlic to the pan. Stir-fry over medium heat, being careful not to burn the garlic. Cook until the zucchinis soften and become slightly translucent as they release moisture. Stirring frequently will help prevent burning and enhance the flavor.
Step 3
Place 2 Tbsp of salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot) on a cutting board and finely mince it with a knife. Mincing the saeujeot helps it dissolve better and distribute the savory flavor evenly throughout the dish. Be careful not to cut your fingers while mincing.
Step 4
When the zucchini is tender and starts to turn a light green color, add 4 Tbsp of gochugaru and the minced saeujeot from step 3. Stir everything together well until the ingredients are evenly coated and combined. The chili flakes will toast in the oil, developing a beautiful color and a spicy aroma.
Step 5
Now, pour in 2 cups (approx. 400ml) of water and let it simmer for about 3 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly. This allows the flavors to meld into the zucchini. While it simmers, finely chop 1 stalk of green onion. Once the liquid has reduced, add the chopped green onion and 4 Tbsp of soup soy sauce. Stir and cook for another minute. Finally, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds to complete this delicious stir-fried zucchini. Enjoy with a warm bowl of rice!
