Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini and Chives with Shrimp Paste
(Kid’s Side Dish) Flavorful Stir-Fried Zucchini and Chives with Shrimp Paste for a Healthy Meal
Here’s a recipe for stir-fried zucchini and chives, enhanced with the savory depth of shrimp paste, perfect for little ones! The combination of zucchini and chives creates a wonderful harmony, amplified by the rich umami from the shrimp paste, making it a dish loved by all ages. It’s a simple yet nutrient-packed side dish that’s ideal for your child’s meal.
Main Ingredients- 1 medium zucchini
- 1/2 medium onion
- A handful of chives (adjust to preference)
Seasoning- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (whole or ground)
- 1 Tbsp salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
- Pinch of salt (for final seasoning adjustment)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp sesame seeds (whole or ground)
- 1 Tbsp salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot)
- Pinch of salt (for final seasoning adjustment)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the zucchini thoroughly. Slice it into approximately 0.5cm thick half-moons or bite-sized pieces. Avoid slicing too thinly so that it retains a pleasant texture after stir-frying.
Step 2
Peel and wash the half onion, then slice it into thin strips, similar in thickness to the zucchini. Slicing the onion this way will help it blend harmoniously with the zucchini when stir-fried.
Step 3
Lightly oil a heated pan. Add the sliced zucchini first. Stir-fry over medium-low heat, rather than high heat, allowing the zucchini to become translucent and tender.
Step 4
Once the zucchini starts to soften, add 1 tablespoon of salted fermented shrimp (saeujeot) and continue to stir-fry. Shrimp paste adds a deep umami flavor that complements the sweetness of the zucchini. Adjust the amount of shrimp paste according to your taste preferences.
Step 5
Add the sliced onion to the pan and stir-fry with the zucchini. When the onion becomes translucent, add 1 tablespoon of perilla oil and 1 teaspoon of minced garlic to enhance the aroma and flavor. Perilla oil adds a lovely nuttiness, so it’s best to add it when the zucchini and onion are almost fully cooked. Taste the mixture and add a tiny pinch of salt if needed to adjust the seasoning. Be mindful that the shrimp paste itself is quite salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
Step 6
Finally, add the handful of washed chives and stir-fry quickly over high heat for about 10 seconds, just until wilted. Chives cook very fast and can lose their vibrant color and texture if overcooked, so adding them at the very end is key. Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (whole or ground) for an extra nutty flavor. This completes your Savory Stir-Fried Zucchini and Chives with Shrimp Paste! It’s a simple, nutritious, and absolutely delicious side dish for children.
