Spicy Stir-Fried Zucchini with Savory Shrimp Paste
Spicy Stir-Fried Zucchini with Savory Shrimp Paste
How to Make Spicy Stir-Fried Zucchini Seasoned with Saeujeot (Fermented Shrimp)
A recipe for spicy stir-fried zucchini, seasoned with saeujeot, offering a delightful savory and subtly spicy kick. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for those seeking a flavorful side dish.
Stir-Fried Zucchini- 1/2 medium zucchini
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tsp fermented shrimp paste (saeujeot)
- 0.5 Tbsp gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Wash the zucchini thoroughly and slice it into 0.5 cm thick half-moons or a similar bite-sized shape. Slicing it into half-moons is also a great option, especially for a more child-friendly presentation.
Step 2
Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the sliced zucchini and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This step draws out excess moisture, which will help achieve a chewier, more appealing texture in the final dish.
Step 3
Gently pat the zucchini dry with a paper towel to remove the released water. Removing this moisture is crucial for preventing the zucchini from becoming mushy and ensuring a pleasant, firm texture.
Step 4
Heat a pan over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and fermented shrimp paste, then stir-fry until fragrant. (Optional: For an extra spicy kick, finely chop some Korean green chili peppers and sauté them along with the garlic and shrimp paste. This step can be omitted if preferred.)
Step 5
Add a little water (about 2-3 tablespoons), gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), and sugar to the pan. Stir well to dissolve the seasonings. Cook over medium heat, being careful not to burn the mixture.
Step 6
Add the dried zucchini slices to the pan and stir-fry quickly to coat them evenly with the sauce. For the final touch, increase the heat to high for about 1 minute, allowing any remaining moisture to evaporate. This will result in a deliciously chewy and flavorful stir-fried zucchini.
