Chewy and Savory Zucchini Salad with Perilla Powder
Healthy and Delicious Zucchini Dish: Perilla Zucchini Salad Good for Diabetes
Introducing a Perilla Zucchini Salad recipe that’s perfect as a special side dish when you don’t have much appetite. This dish combines a chewy texture with the nutty flavor of perilla seeds, offering both health and taste. It’s a healthy recipe that those with diabetes can enjoy without worry, and it makes for an excellent side dish with rice.
Main Ingredients- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1/2 onion
- 1 Korean green chili pepper (cheongyang)
- 1/2 red chili pepper
- A small amount of green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
I recall how delicious this was! It was a moment that completely dispelled the misconception that healthy food is tasteless. Through this recipe, you’ll discover a new charm of zucchini.
Step 2
Prepare 3 fresh zucchinis and slice them into approximately 0.7 cm thick pieces. Slicing them to a suitable thickness is important; too thin and they might break apart, too thick and the texture might not be ideal.
Step 3
Place the sliced zucchinis in water with 1 tablespoon of salt dissolved in it and let them brine for about 30 minutes. This step draws out moisture from the zucchini, making its texture chewier.
Step 4
While the zucchini is brining, prepare the accompanying vegetables. Thinly slice 1/2 onion, finely chop 1 Korean green chili pepper (seeds removed), and finely chop 1/2 red chili pepper. Also, prepare a small amount of green onion.
Step 5
After brining, drain the zucchinis on a sieve and then spread them out in a well-ventilated area to dry. It’s best to dry them in the shade, away from direct sunlight.
Step 6
Drying for about a day and a half will make the zucchinis slightly shriveled (‘kkudukkuduh’) and achieve a chewy texture as the moisture content reduces. Be careful not to dry them too long, or they might become too hard.
Step 7
Steam the dried zucchinis lightly in a steamer for just 5 minutes to add a touch of tenderness. Steaming for too long will make them mushy, so a short steaming time is key.
Step 8
After steaming, gently pat the surface of the zucchinis with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. If water remains, the seasoning may not adhere well.
Step 9
Through this process, the zucchini is reborn into an ingredient with a uniquely appealing texture, much softer and chewier than dried zucchini strips (‘ogari’). We will make a delicious salad with this special zucchini.
Step 10
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced onion, green onion, and chopped chili peppers.
Step 11
Add the prepared sliced zucchinis to the mixing bowl, ready to be mixed with the vegetables.
Step 12
Now it’s time to add all the seasoning ingredients. Add 1/2 Tbsp chili powder, 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic, 1 Tbsp ground perilla seeds, 1/2 Tbsp stevia sugar (adjust sweetness to your preference), 1 Tbsp perilla oil, 1/2 Tbsp salt, and 1 Tbsp sesame seeds.
Step 13
Gently mix everything together with your hands, ensuring that all ingredients and seasonings are evenly distributed. Make sure the zucchini is well-coated with the seasoning.
Step 14
Finally, add another 1 Tbsp of sesame seeds for an extra nutty flavor. Finish mixing gently to achieve a cohesive and slightly sticky texture.
Step 15
This Perilla Zucchini Salad, once made, can be slightly air-dried in a well-ventilated area. This helps maintain its shape even when tossed and further enhances its chewy texture. (This step connects to steps 4-5).
Step 16
Arrange the finished Perilla Zucchini Salad beautifully in a serving dish. The savory aroma of perilla oil will whet your appetite. It looks so delicious, I can’t wait to set the table!
Step 17
Lately, I’ve been mixing brown rice and white rice in equal parts for my meals. I never knew brown rice could be so nutty and delicious! I find myself smiling at my own efforts to be healthier.
Step 18
It’s important to choose foods that are good for diabetes, but I’ve also been reflecting on how we prepare and consume our food. The mornings and evenings are quite chilly, so make sure to dress warmly. Even if there are challenging moments, please make sure to eat breakfast, have a delightful day, and enjoy a refreshing commute home! Thank you. ^^
