Forget boring zucchini! This recipe elevates the humble zucchini into a star side dish, perfect for your next Korean BBQ feast. Grilled zucchini, infused with the vibrant flavors of Korea, offers a delightful contrast of textures and tastes—tender, slightly charred zucchini with a sweet and savory glaze. It's surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet delivers maximum flavor impact. The secret lies in a carefully balanced marinade that marries the sweetness of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with the savory depth of soy sauce and sesame oil. This isn't your grandma's zucchini.
This incredibly flavorful grilled zucchini is unbelievably easy to prepare. The beautiful char marks from grilling add an irresistible appeal, enhancing both the visual and culinary experience. Ready to transform your side dish game? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create the best Korean BBQ zucchini side dish you've ever tasted!
Tools Needed
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Zucchini
- Soy Sauce
- Sesame Oil
- Garlic
- Sugar
- Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- Sesame Seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Marinate Zucchini
- Wash and slice the zucchini into half-moons or other desired shapes. (This step is implied and not explicitly timed in the transcript.)
- In a bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, sugar, and gochujang. Adjust amounts to your taste. (This step is implied and not explicitly timed in the transcript.)
- Add the sliced zucchini to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate. (This step is implied and not explicitly timed in the transcript.)
Step 2. Grill the Zucchini
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated zucchini slices on the grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred. (This step is implied and not explicitly timed in the transcript.)
Step 3. Garnish and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the zucchini from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Serve immediately as a delicious side dish to your Korean BBQ. (This step is implied and not explicitly timed in the transcript.)
Read more: Perfect Korean BBQ Pork: Yangnyeom Teji Galbi Recipe
Tips
- Adjust the amount of gochujang to control the level of spiciness.
- For extra flavor, you can add other ingredients to the marinade, such as ginger or green onions.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 70-100
- Fat: 4-7 g
- Carbs: 7-10 g
- Protein: 1-2 g
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of zucchini?
Yes! While regular zucchini works best, you can also use yellow squash or even pattypan squash. Adjust cooking time as needed, as some varieties may cook faster.
2. What if I don't have a grill?
No problem! You can easily cook this zucchini in a grill pan on the stovetop, or even roast it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
This grilled zucchini recipe is a game-changer, adding a vibrant and flavorful element to any Korean BBQ spread. Its ease of preparation and incredible taste will make it a staple side dish in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the delicious results and impress your friends and family with this simple yet extraordinary dish!