Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini with Fermented Shrimp (Saewujeot Hobak Bokkeum)
Easy Zucchini Side Dish Recipe: Stir-fried Zucchini with Saewujeot (Korean Fermented Shrimp)
Enjoy a delightful Korean side dish made with seasonal round zucchini, stir-fried to perfection with saewujeot (fermented shrimp). This dish gets its deep, savory flavor and umami from saewujeot, eliminating the need for additional seasoning. Round zucchini naturally offers a subtle sweetness and a richer, nuttier flavor compared to Korean zucchini (aehobak), making it delicious in stews or stir-fries. Adding a touch of chili pepper provides a pleasant kick, making it a perfect accompaniment to rice. Learn how to easily prepare this flavorful and healthy zucchini side dish step-by-step, perfect for any meal.
Main Ingredients- 1 medium round zucchini
- 2 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp saewujeot (fermented shrimp), finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (like mirin)
- 2 Tbsp sesame oil
- A pinch of sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Begin by preparing the vegetables. Thinly slice the onion. Finely chop the green onion. If using chili peppers, remove the seeds and slice them diagonally. Have the minced garlic ready.
Step 2
Wash the round zucchini thoroughly under running water. Slice it into approximately 0.5 cm thick half-moons or bite-sized pieces. Avoid slicing them too thinly, as they might break apart during cooking.
Step 3
Heat a pan over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of cooking oil. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4
Once the garlic is aromatic, add 1 tablespoon of cooking wine to help burn off the alcohol. Then, add 1 tablespoon of finely chopped saewujeot and stir-fry together.
Step 5
Continue to stir-fry the saewujeot with the garlic and cooking wine for a short while, allowing the flavors to meld. This process mellows the saltiness of the saewujeot and enhances its umami.
Step 6
Add the sliced zucchini and onion to the pan. Increase the heat to medium-high and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes. The zucchini will soften slightly, and the saewujeot seasoning will naturally coat the vegetables, creating a delicious depth of flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 7
Once the zucchini is partially cooked, drizzle 2 tablespoons of sesame oil around the edges of the pan. This will release its nutty aroma as you continue to stir-fry.
Step 8
Finally, add the chili peppers for a touch of heat and the chopped green onions for freshness. Stir everything together gently for another moment until well combined. Avoid overcooking to maintain the zucchini’s texture.
Step 9
Your delicious stir-fried zucchini is almost ready! Sprinkle generously with sesame seeds for a final touch. Taste and, if needed, add a tiny pinch of salt to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Seasonal zucchini is packed with nutrients like vitamins A and E, potassium (beneficial for blood pressure and eye health), and fiber, making it excellent for boosting immunity during hot weather. Enjoy this healthy and flavorful side dish in various ways – stews, pancakes, or stir-fries – for the whole family!
