Get ready to elevate your culinary skills with this incredibly simple yet mouthwatering Korean zucchini stir-fry that takes just 15 minutes to prepare! Hobak bokkeum is not just a side dish; it's a flavor-packed journey into the heart of Korean home cooking that will make you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen. With its perfect balance of crisp zucchini, aromatic garlic, and umami-rich soy sauce, this recipe is about to become your new go-to weeknight favorite.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: Korean
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Wash the zucchini thoroughly and trim off both ends. Slice the zucchini into thin, uniform half-moon or quarter-moon shapes, approximately 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan evenly.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the sliced zucchini to the skillet. Spread them in a single layer to maximize contact with the hot surface for even browning.
- Stir-fry the zucchini for 3-4 minutes, tossing or stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure all sides get lightly golden.
- Drizzle soy sauce over the zucchini and continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still slightly crisp.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning according to your preference.
- Transfer the stir-fried zucchini to a serving plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve immediately as a side dish with steamed rice and other Korean banchan (side dishes).
Tips
- Slice zucchini uniformly to ensure even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
- Use high heat and keep the zucchini moving to achieve that coveted light golden color without making it mushy.
- Don't overcrowd the pan - this helps the zucchini brown instead of steaming.
- Fresh garlic makes a huge difference, so mince it just before cooking.
- Toasted sesame seeds are not just a garnish - they add a nutty flavor and delightful crunch.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and temperature.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a tiny drizzle of sesame oil at the end for an authentic Korean touch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 90kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
