Crispy Dried Shrimp and Zucchini Stir-fry
A Delightful Side Dish: Crunchy Zucchini Stir-fried with Dried Shrimp
This zucchini stir-fry, bursting with savory flavor and a satisfying crunch, is a side dish you’ll keep reaching for. It’s incredibly addictive!
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 handful dried shrimp (approx. 30-40g)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the zucchini thoroughly. It’s best to use it with the skin on for better texture and nutrients.
Step 2
Slice the zucchini into half-moon shapes, about 0.5cm thick. Cutting them too thin might cause them to break apart during cooking, so aim for a moderate thickness. Place the sliced zucchini in a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of coarse salt. Toss well to coat and let it sit for 10 minutes to salt. This process draws out moisture, enhancing the crispiness and removing any bitterness.
Step 3
After salting, rinse the zucchini lightly under running cold water to remove excess salt. Drain thoroughly in a colander. Excess water can make the stir-fry soggy, so ensure it’s well-drained.
Step 4
You can lightly toast the dried shrimp in a dry pan to remove any fishy smell, or use them as they are. Prepare about a handful. If the dried shrimp are very large, you can break them into smaller pieces.
Step 5
Heat a frying pan with a little cooking oil over medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Once the garlic is fragrant, add the drained zucchini and stir-fry over medium heat. When the zucchini starts to turn translucent, add 1 teaspoon of salt to season. Using salt here adds a pleasant savory flavor.
Step 6
Once the zucchini is cooked to a tender-crisp stage, add the handful of dried shrimp and stir-fry together for another 1-2 minutes until they are well combined with the zucchini. Just before turning off the heat, drizzle in a little perilla oil and give it a final toss for a nutty aroma. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for the final touch, and your delicious Dried Shrimp and Zucchini Stir-fry is complete!
