20 Japanese Vegetable Zucchini Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 26, 2024
The Japanese vegetable zucchini, also known as summer squash, is a versatile and delicious ingredient that is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. With its mild flavor and tender texture, zucchini is a popular addition to dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and tempura. In this article, we will explore a traditional Japanese vegetable zucchini recipe that is easy to make and bursting with flavor. So, let's get cooking!
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Zucchinis, Turnips, White Miso Paste
If you're looking for a delicious and unique addition to your beer can chicken, try adding some Japanese pickled vegetables, also known as tsukemono. These pickles are made by preserving vegetables in a mixture of salt, vinegar, and other seasonings, resulting in a tangy and crunchy side dish that pairs perfectly with the smoky flavor of the chicken. Some popular types of tsukemono include cucumber, daikon radish, and eggplant pickles, but feel free to experiment with different vegetables to find your favorite combination.
2of 20
How To Make Onigiri (Japanese rice balls)
Main Ingredients: Short Grain Rice, Water, Nori, Veggie, Seasoning
Onigiri, also known as Japanese rice balls, are a classic snack in Japan and make a great side dish for beer can chicken. These simple yet tasty rice balls are made by shaping steamed rice into a triangle or ball and filling them with various ingredients like pickled plums, grilled salmon, or seasoned seaweed. Not only are they delicious, but they also add a touch of Japanese culture to your meal.
Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that can be used in many dishes, including beer can chicken recipes. For a Japanese twist, try seasoning your zucchini with soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic before grilling or roasting it. You can also top it with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for some added crunch and flavor. The result is a tender and flavorful side dish that complements the chicken perfectly.
4of 20
Miso Vegetables & Tofu
Main Ingredients: Awase Miso, Sake, Mirin, Cane Sugar, Red Pepper Flakes
Miso is a staple ingredient in Japanese cuisine and is made from fermented soybeans, rice, and barley. Its unique umami flavor makes it a great addition to many dishes, including beer can chicken. Try marinating your vegetables and tofu in a mixture of miso, mirin (sweet rice wine), and sake before grilling or roasting them. The result is a savory and slightly sweet side dish that pairs well with the smoky flavor of the chicken.
5of 20
Emily's Favorite Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients: Organic Carrots, Diced Tomatoes, Onions, Garlic, Celery
Nothing beats a warm and comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening, and Emily's favorite vegetable soup is the perfect accompaniment to beer can chicken. This hearty soup is packed with carrots, potatoes, celery, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful and nourishing dish. It's also a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand.
6of 20
Japanese Summer Vegetable Miso Soup
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Eggplant, Tomato, Dashi Powder, Miso Paste
Another soup that pairs well with beer can chicken is Japanese summer vegetable miso soup. This light and refreshing soup is made with a variety of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, corn, green beans, and shimeji mushrooms, and seasoned with miso, mirin, and dashi (Japanese soup stock). It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal and add a touch of Japanese flavor.
7of 20
How to Make Sushi Without a Mat
Main Ingredients: White Rice, Water, Rice Wine Vinegar, Sugar, Salt
If you're feeling adventurous, why not try making sushi without a mat? This unique method involves rolling the sushi by hand, resulting in a more rustic and homemade look. You can fill your sushi with a variety of ingredients such as crab meat, cucumber, avocado, and smoked salmon. Serve it alongside your beer can chicken for a fun and interactive dining experience.
8of 20
Japanese Okonomiyaki with Dressed Mizuna &...
Main Ingredients: Scallions, Garlic, Carrot, Zucchini, Green Cabbage
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake that is often filled with cabbage, diced pork, and green onions. It's a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for serving alongside beer can chicken. For an extra burst of freshness, try topping your okonomiyaki with a dressed mizuna salad, made with mizuna (Japanese mustard greens), soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
9of 20
Japanese Zucchini Noodle Salad with Miso Dressing
Main Ingredients: Red Miso, Ground Ginger, Fresh Basil Leaves, Toasted
Zucchini noodles, also known as "zoodles," are a healthier alternative to traditional pasta and make a great side dish for beer can chicken. This Japanese twist on a zucchini noodle salad features a flavorful miso dressing made with miso paste, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic. It's a light and refreshing dish that is packed with nutrients and pairs well with the smoky flavors of the chicken.
10of 20
Vegetable salad with shaved seaweed and Japanese...
Main Ingredients: Butter Beans, Baby Corn, Zucchini, Fresh Shiitake
For a refreshing and nutritious side dish, try a vegetable salad with shaved seaweed and Japanese dressing. This salad combines a variety of fresh vegetables such as cucumbers, carrots, radishes, and red peppers with shaved seaweed and a tangy dressing made with rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It's a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal and add a touch of Japanese flavor.
11of 20
Rainbow Veggie Kabobs
Main Ingredients: Vegetables, Peppers, Baby Carrots, Cauliflower
Mix up your traditional vegetable side dish by making rainbow veggie kabobs to accompany your beer can chicken. These colorful and flavorful kabobs are made with a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice. They add a fun and festive touch to your meal and are a great way to get your daily dose of veggies.
Main Ingredients: Red Lentils, Basmati Rice, Bay Leaves, Vegetables
Kitchari is a traditional Indian dish made with lentils, rice, and spices, and it makes a delicious side dish for beer can chicken. This baked kitchari casserole is a modern twist on the classic dish, featuring layers of spiced lentils, rice, and vegetables such as carrots, peas, and cauliflower. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that adds a touch of international flair to your meal.
13of 20
Super Easy Summer Vegetable Casserole
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Veggies
For a simple yet tasty side dish, try making a super easy summer vegetable casserole to accompany your beer can chicken. This dish combines a variety of seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers with a sprinkle of herbs and olive oil. It's a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand and adds a burst of freshness to your meal.
14of 20
Ultimate Vegan Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Cannellini Beans, Raw Cashews, Garlic Cloves, Lemon
For those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option to pair with their beer can chicken, try making an ultimate vegan lasagna. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with layers of zucchini noodles, tofu ricotta, marinara sauce, and spinach, and topped with vegan mozzarella and parmesan cheese. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress both meat-eaters and non-meat-eaters alike.
15of 20
Okonomiyaki
Main Ingredients: Cooked Chicken, Napa Cabbage, Shredded Carrots, Green
Another way to incorporate okonomiyaki into your meal is by making it in a pan or skillet, rather than on a grill. This method results in a thicker and more cake-like texture, making it a great side dish for beer can chicken. You can add a variety of fillings to your okonomiyaki, such as bacon, shrimp, or mixed vegetables, and serve it with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce and a sprinkle of bonito flakes.
16of 20
Omelets In A Muffin Tin
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Cooked Meat, Veggies, Shredded Cheese, Mexican
If you're looking for a unique and fun side dish for your beer can chicken, try making omelets in a muffin tin. This method is a great way to make individual portions and allows you to add a variety of fillings to each omelet, such as spinach, mushrooms, ham, and cheese. They're a great way to add some protein and variety to your meal and can be served alongside a fresh green salad.
17of 20
The Secret to Perfect Shish Kabobs
Main Ingredients: Canola Oil, Marinades, Meats, Beef, Mushrooms
Shish kabobs are a classic side dish for grilling, and the secret to making perfect shish kabobs is all in the marinade. For a Japanese twist, try marinating your chicken, bell peppers, onions, and pineapple in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger before grilling them. The result is a flavorful and juicy dish that pairs well with the beer can chicken.
18of 20
Vegetable Lasagna
Main Ingredients: Veggies, Carrots, Celery, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Sweet
Another great vegetarian option to pair with beer can chicken is vegetable lasagna. Layered with zucchini, carrots, spinach, ricotta cheese, and marinara sauce, this dish is hearty and flavorful. You can also add some Japanese eggplant for a unique twist on the classic lasagna.
19of 20
Okonomiyaki (Japanese Pancake)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Dashi, Eggs, Cabbage, Carrots, Zucchini, Green
If you're looking for a side dish that is both delicious and easy to make, try okonomiyaki, also known as Japanese pancakes. These savory pancakes are made with a batter of flour, eggs, cabbage, and green onions, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients such as shrimp, squid, or pork belly. Serve it with a drizzle of okonomiyaki sauce and a sprinkle of nori flakes for some added flavor.
20of 20
Chicken Bake
Main Ingredients: Carrots, Broccoli, Squash, Zucchini, Onions, Veggies
Last but certainly not least, a simple and delicious side dish for beer can chicken is a chicken bake. This dish combines chicken breasts, potatoes, carrots, onions, and seasonings such as garlic powder, paprika, and thyme in a baking dish and bakes in the oven until golden and tender. It's a classic and satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table.
The Versatility of Japanese Vegetable Zucchini
When it comes to Japanese cuisine, zucchini is a staple ingredient that can be found in many dishes. It is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. Zucchini is a rich source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. It is also low in calories, making it a perfect ingredient for those trying to watch their weight.
Traditional Japanese Zucchini Recipe
One of the most beloved ways to prepare zucchini in Japanese cuisine is by stir-frying it with other vegetables and seasonings. This simple yet flavorful dish is known as "kinpira," and it is a popular side dish that can be served with rice or noodles.
To make kinpira, you will need the following ingredients:
1 medium-sized Japanese vegetable zucchini, thinly sliced
1 carrot, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon mirin
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
To start, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the zucchini and carrots, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Next, add the soy sauce, mirin, and sugar to the pan, and continue to stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are well coated and caramelized. Finally, sprinkle sesame seeds over the dish and give it a final stir before serving.
Customizing Your Zucchini Recipe
While the traditional kinpira recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to add your own twist to it. You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the stir-fry, or even some protein like tofu or chicken for a heartier dish. You can also adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences, adding a bit more soy sauce for a saltier flavor or more sugar for a sweeter taste.
In conclusion, the Japanese vegetable zucchini is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many dishes. With its health benefits and delicious taste, it is no wonder that zucchini is a staple in Japanese cuisine. So why not give this traditional kinpira recipe a try and experience the flavors of Japan in the comfort of your own home?