Hibachi Zucchini Recipe
This Hibachi Zucchini recipe is a delightful and quick Japanese-inspired side dish featuring tender seared zucchini with a savory blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame flavors. Perfectly cooked in a skillet for a slightly caramelized finish, it’s garnished with fresh green onions and optional sesame seeds, making it a flavorful and healthy addition to any meal.
- Author: lucas
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Japanese
- Diet: Low Fat
Vegetables
- 2 medium zucchini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash and dry the zucchini thoroughly. Trim off the ends and slice each zucchini into thick half-moons to ensure even cooking and a satisfying texture.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the butter and sesame oil, and heat until the mixture is fragrant, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
- Sear the zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer in the hot skillet. Let them sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a light golden crust. Flip the slices and sear the other side for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add garlic and soy sauce: Stir in the minced garlic and pour in the soy sauce. Cook for one more minute, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and coat the zucchini pieces evenly with flavor.
- Optional caramelization: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sugar over the zucchini to enhance caramelization and deepen the dish’s sweetness and complexity.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the zucchini with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for added aroma and texture. Serve immediately for best taste and presentation.
Notes
- Use medium zucchini for even cooking and ideal texture.
- Sugar is optional but helps with caramelization and balancing savory flavors.
- For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based oil or margarine.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to control the saltiness according to your preference.
- Serve as a side dish with hibachi-style meals or as a healthy vegetable snack.
Keywords: Hibachi zucchini, Japanese side dish, seared zucchini, easy zucchini recipe, skillet zucchini, vegetable side, garlic soy zucchini