INTRODUCTION
A beautiful dish is Korean Zucchini Stir Fry or Hobak Bokkum. It wonderfully shows the brightly flavored beauty of zucchini, instead of the faded-out dull day that zucchini’s humble appearance often makes people associate it with. In Korea, one of the most commonly seen side dishes is zucchini, loved for its simplicity and matchfulness with so many other main dishes. This recipe is quick and easy and uses fresh zucchini. If you are looking for a nutritious companion or a lighter vegetarian option for your dinner table, Hobak Bokkum is the perfect choice. Let us take a look at the ingredients and methods required to make this delicious dish.
What is Hobak Bokkeum?
“Hobak Bokkum” refers to a Korean dish called “stir-fried zucchini.” This utilizes garlic and sesame oil as well as a bit of soy sauce to draw out the natural sweetness of the zucchini. It makes for a good enjoyable meal all by itself or serves to complement any Korean meal that has too much heaviness. Plus, it’s a great way to eat more veggies while still enjoying the intense flavor. When you make this recipe, you are not only increasing the nutritional value of your food, but you are also increasing your taste.
Why We’ll Love This Recipe
This simple Korean zucchini stir-fry is not only delicious but takes very little time to prepare, making it perfect for those busy evenings when time is short A little softness from the zucchini and spicy flavors from gochugaru meet in this dish for a balanced and delicious meal If you hit everyone’s favorites and more, this is a great way to increase the amount of vegetables in your diet!
Why Make Korean Zucchini Stir Fry (Hobak Bokkeum)
Stir-frying zucchini Korean style is a very simple and quick process. This recipe requires only a few spices, which you probably already have in your kitchen. Its taste is not so strong that it is enjoyable for everyone.
Compared to other Korean zucchini side dish recipes that use fish sauce or salty fermented shrimp (saeujyoot), I prepared this version without these ingredients. This way, it becomes even more attractive to people of all castes.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 onion (70g, 2.5 ounces), julienned
- 1 zucchini (250g, 8.8 ounces), julienned
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt or more to taste
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Directions
- Heat the pan on low flame and then add oil to it and spread it well.
- In the next step, if the temperature becomes too high, the garlic and onions may burn quickly.
- First, cook the garlic until it turns light golden (this will take about five to ten seconds).
- Then add the onion and keep stirring until it becomes transparent (this will take about thirty seconds).
- Now add zucchini and reduce the temperature to medium. Sprinkle salt well and keep stirring frequently. If you don’t add salt evenly, some portions may end up being too salty.
- Cook until the zucchini is completely soft, about three to four minutes.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the mixture and lightly mix in a small amount of sesame oil.
- Let it cool down then take it out from the gas. Serve with a bowl of rice and other side dishes of Korea.
Cooking Tips
- Zucchini Selection: For the best texture and flavor, use soft and fresh zucchini. If you can find Korean zucchini, that is the best thing to use!
- Customization: You can also add other vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms or capsicum for yet another dose of color and nutrients. You can also add sources of protein like tofu or very thinly sliced meat as you wish.
- Spice it Up: During stir-frying, if you want a little more heat you can add gochujang, aka Korean red chili flakes, or chopped chilies.
- Make Ahead: Hobak Bokkum can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for two to three days before eating. Just reheating it before serving is enough.
CONCLUSION
Hobak Bokkum, also known as Korean Zucchini Stir Fry, happens to be one of those quick and healthy recipes that are so much on point in delivering great flavor while still keeping a light and healthy cooking style. Mainly, it’s just one of the best ways to enjoy fresh veggies, and you can easily modify it as you see fit.
From Hobak Bokkum, this will surely tease your taste buds either as a side dish or as a major course in the light. This one’s bound to simply make you awe with the taste of Korean food right from your home!
FAQ’s
What is the difference between zucchini and Korean zucchini?
Korean zucchini or “ehobak” has a very bright green color (neon or lime green) and yellow flesh.
What does Korean squash taste like?
Korean squash tastes similar to zucchini but a bit sweeter.
Which red or green zucchini is healthier?
Yellow zucchini can have a slightly higher profile than lighter green ones.
Is zucchini better or cucumber?
Compared to cucumbers, zucchini contains more B vitamins and vitamin C.