Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini with Fermented Shrimp (Hobak Saeujeot Bokkeum)
Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini with Fermented Shrimp (Hobak Saeujeot Bokkeum)
Zucchini Stir-fry with Fermented Shrimp
Try this delightful stir-fry made with fresh, tender zucchini and savory fermented shrimp. It’s incredibly delicious and has a wonderfully soft, comforting texture. This dish is a perfect side for rice, bringing a burst of flavor to any meal.
Main Ingredients- 300g Zucchini (Korean summer squash or any tender zucchini)
- 60g Onion (about 1/4 medium onion)
- 1 Red chili pepper (for color and mild heat)
- 1 Tbsp Perilla oil (Deulgireum)
- 1 Tbsp Cooking oil
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Seasoning- 1 Tbsp Minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 1 Tbsp Fermented shrimp (Saeujeot), finely chopped (including the liquid)
- 60ml Water (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 Tbsp Minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean red pepper flakes)
- 1 Tbsp Fermented shrimp (Saeujeot), finely chopped (including the liquid)
- 60ml Water (about 1/4 cup)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the zucchini. Trim off the stem ends. Cut the zucchini in half lengthwise, then use a spoon to scoop out and discard the seeds. Removing the seeds ensures a better texture.
Step 2
Cut the seeded zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Slices about 0.7-1 cm thick, either half-moons or angled cuts, work well. Avoid making them too thin, as they can break apart during cooking.
Step 3
Peel the onion and slice it into strips about 0.5 cm thick. If sliced too thinly, they may overcook quickly.
Step 4
Wash the red chili pepper, remove the stem, and slice it diagonally into pieces about 0.5 cm thick. Remove the seeds if you prefer less heat. This adds a vibrant color and a touch of spice. (Omit if you don’t like spicy food, or use it instead of other chili peppers.)
Step 5
Now, let’s start stir-frying. Heat a wide, shallow pan or wok over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of perilla oil and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. The perilla oil will add a wonderful nutty aroma.
Step 6
Once the oil is shimmering, add all the prepared zucchini to the pan. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the zucchini begins to soften and turn slightly translucent. Cook over medium heat to prevent burning.
Step 7
When the zucchini is partially cooked, add the sliced onions to the pan. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the onions become slightly translucent.
Step 8
It’s time to add the seasonings. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of gochugaru, and 1 tablespoon of finely chopped fermented shrimp (including its liquid). Pour in the 60ml of water.
Step 9
Using a spatula or spoon, stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed. If the fermented shrimp is clumped, break it apart as you mix to help the flavors meld.
Step 10
Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir gently and continuously as it simmers for about 5-7 minutes. This allows the zucchini to become tender and absorb the delicious flavors. Be careful not to stir too vigorously, which can break up the zucchini.
Step 11
If you prefer a saucier stir-fry or find it needs more seasoning, you can add an extra 1-2 tablespoons of water and another teaspoon of fermented shrimp at this stage. Adjust the seasoning to your personal taste.
Step 12
When the zucchini is tender and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency, turn off the heat. Be mindful not to overcook, as the zucchini can become mushy.
Step 13
Finally, add the sliced red chili pepper and give it a quick stir. Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds to finish. Your delicious Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini with Fermented Shrimp is ready! Serve it warm over a bowl of rice for a delightful meal.
