Description
This Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi Zucchini recipe offers a flavorful and quick side dish featuring tender zucchini stir-fried with a savory blend of soy and teriyaki sauces, garlic, and a touch of butter. Perfectly cooked to retain a slight crispness, it brings a delightful balance of umami and freshness to complement any Japanese-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into half-moons
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon teriyaki sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Prepare the Zucchini: Begin by washing the zucchinis under running water. Trim off the ends, then slice them lengthwise in half. Cut these halves into 1/4-inch thick half-moon shapes for even cooking.
- Heat the Oil: Place a large skillet or hibachi grill over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering to ensure a good sear on the zucchini.
- Cook the Zucchini: Add the sliced zucchinis to the hot skillet. Stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the zucchini begins to develop a golden-brown color.
- Add Garlic: Mix in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Keep the garlic moving in the pan to prevent burning and to release its aromatic flavor.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the soy sauce and teriyaki sauce, stirring thoroughly to coat all the zucchini pieces evenly. Continue stir-frying for another 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Season: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference and the saltiness of your soy sauce.
- Incorporate Butter and Water: Add water and unsalted butter to the skillet. The steam from the water will help soften the zucchini slightly while the butter enriches the sauce’s flavor and texture.
- Finish Cooking: Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes more until the zucchini is tender yet still crisp and the sauce has thickened a bit, creating a glossy coating.
- Garnish: Transfer the cooked hibachi zucchini to a serving plate and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds if using, adding a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Serve: Serve immediately as a warm side dish alongside your favorite Japanese entrees like grilled meats, rice, or noodles.
Notes
- You can substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce to make this gluten-free.
- Adjust garlic quantity based on your preference for stronger or milder flavor.
- To make it vegan, replace butter with a plant-based margarine or omit it entirely.
- For added heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes during the stir-fry stage.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the zucchini’s fresh texture and warm sauce.
