Succulent Shrimp and Sweet Zucchini Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Side Dish
Succulent Shrimp and Sweet Zucchini Stir-Fry: A Quick and Delicious Side Dish
Have You Tried Zucchini Stir-Fry with Fresh Shrimp? It’s a Fantastic Side Dish!
I was inspired to recreate my mother-in-law’s fresh shrimp and zucchini stir-fry, and the taste was surprisingly good! This recipe is simple yet packed with flavor, perfect for a quick and satisfying side.
Essential Ingredients- 1/2 medium zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/3 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined, cut into 3 pieces each
- 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp salted shrimp paste (saeujeot)
Optional (For Extra Flavor)- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, let’s prepare the ingredients. Cut the zucchini into manageable, bite-sized pieces and then halve them for better texture. Thinly slice the onion. Peel and devein the fresh shrimp, then rinse them under cold water and cut each shrimp into three portions. This preparation ensures even seasoning and cooking.
Step 2
Heat a lightly oiled skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the zucchini and sprinkle with 1/3 tsp of salt. Stir-fry for 1 minute until the zucchini begins to turn slightly translucent. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the zucchini.
Step 3
Push the zucchini to one side of the pan and add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 30 seconds until they start to soften and become fragrant. Now, add the prepared shrimp and a pinch of salt. Continue to stir-fry over medium heat for about 2 minutes and 30 seconds, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. You’ll notice a fresh, inviting aroma.
Step 4
Pour in 4 Tbsp of water and add 1 tsp of salted shrimp paste (saeujeot) for an extra layer of umami. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 1 minute and 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld. To prevent the zucchini from breaking apart, it’s best to gently toss the pan rather than stirring vigorously with utensils. Be careful!
Step 5
When most of the liquid has evaporated and the mixture is slightly moist, add the minced garlic. If you’re using chopped green onions, add them at this stage as well. Stir-fry for another minute until the garlic and green onions are fragrant. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Finally, turn off the heat, drizzle with 1 tsp of sesame oil, and mix well to finish. Enjoy this delicious zucchini and shrimp stir-fry while it’s warm!
